Inchworm Stretch

Level
beginner
Equipment
gym mat
Category
stretching
Primary Muscles

A dynamic stretching exercise that improves flexibility through gradual forward folding and walking movements.

Instructions

  1. Stand with your feet together and legs straight.
  2. Slowly fold forward at the hips, bringing your hands toward the floor.
  3. Gently walk your hands forward, stretching your hamstrings.
  4. Continue forward until you reach a comfortable position.
  5. Hold the deepest position for a few seconds.
  6. Walk your hands back to starting position.
  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips

  • Move slowly and avoid bouncing to prevent injury.
  • Only go as far as is comfortable without forcing the stretch.
  • Keep your legs relatively straight to maximize hamstring engagement.
  • This is an excellent warm-up or cool-down exercise.
  • Regular performance improves lower body flexibility over time.

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 Reps
Gain strength 3 7 reps
Build muscle 3 10 reps
Build endurance 3 14 reps