How to correctly stretch your Hamstrings

Can you stretch your hamstrings like this?

If so, you probably don’t need to be stretching anymore, because you already have great hamstring flexibility.  I see so many people stretching their hamstrings the wrong way and many of my patients ask me, what is the proper way to stretch your hamstrings?  Personally, I think hamstring stretching is grossly overrated.  For maintaining general flexibility, its fine and stretch away.  Regarding injury prevention of treating an injured patient, then I feel only certain people need to stretch.  Anyway, this is a topic for another post, but what is the best way to stretch your hamstrings?  Using a strap?  Laying down?  How long do I hold it for?
This is how you correctly stretch your hamstrings:

• hold for 30-90 seconds
• don’t flex or bend your low back.  keep your spine straight and bend at the hips, not low back
• perform 2-4 reps

I hope this helps and now you can stretch with proper form!  If you are experiencing and injury that you are doing a hamstring stretch for, you may not even need to be stretching!  Your stretching may be missing the problem or making symptoms worse.  If so, call us at 407-494-8835 or visit PursuitTherapy.com and schedule your FREE CONSULTATION today!  We can help you resolve your pain and get back to your favorite activities.