Mobility & stretching

Kneeling hip flexor stretch

Easing the front of the hip — welcome after long periods of sitting.

Beginner Low impact Exercise mat
Movement diagram for Kneeling hip flexor stretch: half-kneeling to half-kneeling, hips forward
Original diagram — start and finish positions.

How to do it

  1. Kneel on one knee on a mat with the other foot flat in front, both knees at right angles.
  2. Tuck your tailbone slightly under and squeeze the glute of the kneeling leg.
  3. Gently shift your hips forward until you feel a stretch at the front of the back hip.
  4. Reach the arm on the kneeling side up if you like. Hold, breathe, then swap.

Form tips

  • A small tuck of the pelvis gives a big stretch.
  • Stay tall rather than leaning forward.

Common mistakes

  • Arching the lower back.
  • Lunging too far forward.

Easier and harder

Make it easier

Do it standing in a split stance holding a chair.

Make it harder

Hold the back foot with your hand for a thigh stretch too (only if comfortable).

More mobility & stretching exercises