Equipment: None required.
Instructions:
1. Starting Position:
- Sit on the floor with your legs extended straight in front of you.
- Keep your feet hip-width apart and your toes pointed upwards.
- Sit up tall with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
2. Hand Placement:
- Place your hands on the floor beside your hips for support, or reach your arms straight up overhead for an added challenge.
3. Movement:
- Inhale deeply, lengthening your spine.
- As you exhale, hinge at your hips and lean forward gently, reaching your hands toward your toes.
- Aim to keep your back straight as you lean forward, rather than rounding your spine.
4. Stretch:
- Once you reach as far as you can comfortably go, hold the position for 15-30 seconds.
- Focus on relaxing into the stretch; don’t force it. If you can’t touch your toes, just reach as far as you can.
5. Release:
- Inhale and slowly come back to the starting position, sitting up tall again.
- Repeat the movement for 2-3 sets, breathing deeply and relaxing during each stretch.
Tips:
- Keep your knees slightly bent if you feel tightness in your hamstrings.
- Make sure to breathe throughout the exercise, as this helps to relax your muscles and deepen the stretch.
- Always listen to your body, and stop if you feel pain.
