Seated Hamstring Stretch

Exercise Library / Seated Hamstring Stretch

Seated Hamstring Stretch

The seated hamstring stretch lengthens the back of your thigh.

Mobility & Flexibility

What this exercise does

The seated hamstring stretch lengthens the back of your thigh. Flexible hamstrings help you bend forward and reduce pulling on the lower back.

At a glance

Type: Mobility & Flexibility
Body part: Legs – Thighs
Muscles worked: Hamstrings
Experience: Beginner
Equipment: No Equipment
Good for: Joint-Friendly / Low-Impact

How to do it

Sit near the edge of a chair. Straighten one leg in front with your heel on the floor and toes up.
Sit tall.
Hinge forward from the hips until you feel a stretch behind the thigh.
Hold for 20 to 30 seconds.
Switch legs. Repeat once or twice.

Common mistakes

Rounding the back to reach farther.
Bouncing.
Locking the knee hard.

Make it easier or harder

Make it easier

Bend the knee slightly.

Make it harder

Lean forward further with a flat back.

Keep it safe

Keep your back long and stop at a mild stretch. Do not push into pain.