Standing Quad Stretch
A standing stretch that targets the quadriceps by pulling the heel toward the glutes, improving hip flexor and quad flexibility.
Instructions
- Stand upright with feet hip-width apart. For balance, place one hand on a wall or stable object.
- Bend one knee and pull your heel toward your glutes, keeping your knees aligned and your torso upright.
- Hold the stretch position for 20-30 seconds, feeling a gentle stretch along the front of your thigh.
- Return to the starting position and repeat on the opposite leg.
Tips
- Maintain an upright posture throughout to prevent excessive forward lean.
- Keep your knees aligned rather than letting the bent knee drift inward or outward.
- Use your hand on the wall for balance only; avoid pulling yourself into a deeper stretch.
- Breathe steadily and deeply throughout the hold.
- Perform this stretch after workouts when muscles are warm for optimal flexibility gains.
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 |