Hug Knees To Chest
Level
beginner
Force
static
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
gym mat Category
stretching Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A static stretch where you pull both knees to your chest while lying on your back to stretch the lower back and glutes.
Instructions
- Lie down on your back on a mat or soft surface.
- Pull both knees up to your chest.
- Hold your arms under the knees, not over them (to avoid pressure on knee joints).
- Slowly pull your knees toward your shoulders.
- Maintain steady, comfortable tension in the stretch.
- Keep your head and shoulders relaxed on the ground.
- Hold the stretch for the desired duration.
Tips
- Use your arms to control the depth of the stretch, not force.
- Keep your head and shoulders flat on the ground.
- Breathe steadily and relax into the stretch.
- This effectively stretches your lower back and gluteal muscles.
- Hold for 20-40 seconds per set for best results.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 25 s |
| Build muscle | 3 | 40 s |
| Build endurance | 3 | 1 min |