Videos
Instructions
- Lie flat on your stomach on a yoga mat.
- Bend both knees and bring your heels toward your glutes.
- Reach back with both hands and grab your ankles or feet.
- Gently pull your ankles toward your glutes to deepen the stretch.
- Hold the position while keeping your thighs close to the floor.
Technical Tips
- Avoid arching the lower back excessively.
- Keep your knees hip-width apart to prevent stress on the joints.
- If reaching both ankles is difficult, use straps or hold your pant legs.
Breathing Tips
- Inhale deeply as you prepare for the stretch.
- Exhale slowly as you pull your ankles closer.
- Continue to breathe deeply and steadily while holding the stretch.
Medical restrictions
- Knee injuries or post-operative conditions
- Lumbar spine issues or herniated discs
- Limited shoulder mobility
Description
The Double Quad Stretch is a passive flexibility movement that targets both quadriceps simultaneously in a prone position. It involves lying on the stomach, bending both knees, and reaching back with the hands to pull the ankles toward the glutes. This bilateral version increases intensity compared to single-leg variations and also encourages symmetry in flexibility. Ideal for warm-ups, cooldowns, or recovery routines, the stretch helps release tension in the front thighs, improve hip mobility, and counteract the effects of prolonged sitting or intense leg training. By opening up the hip flexors and lengthening the quadriceps, it promotes better posture and muscular balance in the lower body. This stretch requires good shoulder and spinal mobility and is most suitable for individuals with intermediate flexibility.
How do I stretch both quadriceps at the same time?
Lie on your stomach, bend both knees, and use your hands to pull your ankles toward your glutes for a Double Quad Stretch.
Is the Double Quad Stretch better than single-leg versions?
It offers a more intense stretch and promotes balance, but requires more flexibility and may not be suitable for beginners.
Can I do the Double Quad Stretch if I have tight shoulders?
If reaching both ankles is difficult, use yoga straps or try single-leg variations to reduce shoulder strain.
What muscles does the Double Quad Stretch target?
It primarily stretches the quadriceps and hip flexors while also engaging the glutes and lower back for stabilization.
Is the Double Quad Stretch safe for lower back pain?
It should be avoided if you have lower back pain, as it places stress on the lumbar spine when performed incorrectly.