Intermediate Groin Stretch

A gentle stretching exercise that targets the groin and inner thigh muscles performed lying on your back with assistance from a belt or band.

Instructions

1. Lie on your back on an exercise mat with both legs extended and arms at your sides.
2. Loop a belt, rope, or resistance band around one foot and grasp both ends of the belt.
3. Swing that leg as far to the side as you comfortably can, keeping the leg relatively straight.
4. Gently pull on the belt to create additional tension in your groin and hamstring muscles.
5. Hold the stretch in this position, breathing deeply and relaxing into the stretch.
6. Release the tension and lower the leg back to the starting position.
7. Rest briefly, then repeat on the opposite side.

Tips

• Hold the stretch for 10-20 seconds on each side; never force the stretch beyond comfortable tension.
• Breathe steadily throughout the stretch and never hold your breath.
• Keep your back flat against the floor to protect your lower spine during the movement.
• A belt or band allows for a deeper, more controlled stretch than pulling with your hands alone.
• Perform this stretch when your muscles are warm, such as after a workout or light cardio.
• Avoid bouncing or jerky movements, which can cause injury to the delicate groin muscles.