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Standing Tibialis Anterior Stretch

Beginner
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A bodyweight stretch that lengthens the tibialis anterior muscle along the front of the shin to improve ankle dorsiflexion and reduce shin splint risk; commonly used in warm-ups or cool-downs for lower leg mobility.

About Exercise

Equipment

Body Weight

Difficulty

1/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Calves

Popularity Score

3

Goals

Mobility
Stability
Rehab

Training Style

Yoga
Mobility Flow

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Calves

10/10

Gastrocnemius

Programming

Typical Rep Range

2-3 reps

Rest Between Sets

10-30 seconds

How to Perform

Stand with feet hip-width apart, holding a wall or chair for balance if needed. Slide one foot back 12 inches and place the top of its toes on the ground, sole facing up.

  1. Keep front foot planted and back toes curled under.
  2. Slowly lean torso forward while keeping back straight.
  3. Lower body gently to feel stretch in front of shin.
  4. Bend front knee slightly to deepen if comfortable.
  5. Hold position steadily.
  6. Return to start and switch legs.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Toes curled under
  • Back straight
  • Lean from hips
  • Front knee over toes
  • Breathe steadily

Breathing

Inhale to prepare, exhale as you lean forward into the stretch and brace your core lightly.

Tempo

0-0-30

Range of Motion

Stretch from toes to knee, feeling tension in shin without knee hyperextension or ankle strain; hold until mild pull is felt.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Warm up with light activity first
  • Avoid if acute shin or ankle injury
  • Do not bounce or jerk
  • Stop if sharp pain occurs
  • Consult professional for prior fractures or sprains

Spotting

No spotting needed; use wall for balance support.

Common Mistakes

  • Bouncing into stretch
  • Leaning with rounded back
  • Forcing beyond comfort
  • Not warming up first

When to Avoid

  • Acute shin splints
  • Recent ankle sprain
  • Lower leg fractures

Flexibility Needed

  • Basic ankle plantarflexion range

Build Up First

  • Warm-up with 5-10 minutes light cardio

Also known as

Standing Shin Stretch, Anterior Tibialis Stretch

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