Exercise guide · Beginner · Stretch

Leg Up Hamstring Stretch: How to Do It & Muscles Worked

The leg up hamstring stretch is a flexibility exercise targeting the hamstrings and glutes. It involves lying on your back, bringing one knee toward your chest, and then straightening the leg to stretch the hamstring.

Primary muscles
Hamstrings
Secondary muscles
Glutes
Equipment
Body Weight
Level · type
Beginner · Stretch
Demonstration of the leg up hamstring stretch
Front view: muscles worked by the leg up hamstring stretch. Primary: hamstrings. Secondary: glutes.
Back view: muscles worked by the leg up hamstring stretch. Primary: hamstrings. Secondary: glutes.
Primary Secondary

How to do the leg up hamstring stretch

  1. Step 1: Lie flat on your back with your legs extended.
  2. Step 2: Bend one knee and bring it towards your chest, holding onto your thigh or shin.
  3. Step 3: Straighten your leg as much as possible while keeping it elevated.
  4. Step 4: Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds.
  5. Step 5: Repeat with the other leg.

Leg Up Hamstring Stretch alternatives

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Step-by-step instructions and demonstration media are from the ExerciseDB exercise dataset.

This guide is general fitness information, not medical advice. Stop if an exercise causes pain and speak to a doctor or physiotherapist about injuries or health conditions before starting a new programme.