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Seated Quadricep Stretch

Beginner
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A bodyweight stretch that lengthens the quadriceps and hip flexors to improve knee and hip flexibility; used for recovery, tension relief, and injury prevention.

About Exercise

Equipment

Body Weight

Difficulty

1/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Quads, Hip Flexors

Secondary Muscles

Glutes

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Mobility
Rehab

Training Style

Yoga
Warm-up

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Quads

10/10

Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis

Hip Flexors

8/10

Iliopsoas

Glutes

4/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

2-5 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on the floor with both legs extended. Bend one knee, place foot near buttocks, and grasp ankle with hand.

  1. Extend legs straight in front.
  2. Bend right knee, foot toward buttocks.
  3. Grasp right ankle or use strap.
  4. Pull heel gently toward buttocks.
  5. Keep torso upright, hips level.
  6. Hold stretch 20-30 seconds.
  7. Switch sides and repeat.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Back straight
  • Hips square
  • Breathe evenly
  • Gentle pull only

Breathing

Inhale to prepare, exhale to deepen the stretch while maintaining steady breaths.

Tempo

0-0-20

Range of Motion

Heel moves toward buttocks until mild stretch felt in front thigh; avoid pain or knee strain.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if knee or hip injury present
  • Ease out if pain occurs
  • Consult professional for recent surgery
  • Keep stretch gentle, no bouncing

Spotting

No spotting required; self-assisted with strap if needed.

Common Mistakes

  • Bouncing into stretch
  • Arching lower back
  • Twisting torso
  • Forcing beyond comfort

When to Avoid

  • Knee injuries
  • Hip flexor strains
  • Recent ankle surgery
  • Severe quadriceps tears

Flexibility Needed

  • Basic hip and knee flexion
  • Ability to sit on floor

Also known as

Seated Quad Stretch, Floor Quad Stretch

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