Form cues
- Lengthen spine
- Reach with fingertips
- Keep legs straight
- Relax neck
Exercise
Spine Stretch
Back, body weight
A floor stretch focusing on lengthening the spine and improving flexibility in the lower back and hamstrings.
Target: spinal erectors. Also works: latissimus dorsi, hamstrings.
This one is filed as mobility. It shows in warm-up and cool-down, and in search.
Steps
- Sit on floor with legs extended and feet flexed.
- Extend arms straight ahead at shoulder height.
- Inhale, then as you exhale, reach forward, articulating your spine.
- Stretch forward as far as comfortable, keeping legs straight.
- Hold and return slowly to start.
Common mistakes
- Rounding shoulders excessively
- Forcing the stretch
- Bending knees
Breathing
Exhale as you stretch forward, inhale as you return to start.
In the app, search for Spine Stretch and add it to a workout.