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Gentle Figure-4 Glute Stretch

BeginnerstretchTier T1
Gentle Figure-4 Glute Stretch

Modified piriformis/glute stretch performed gently to avoid SI joint stress. Tight glutes can contribute to SI dysfunction.

Targets: SI Joint
Muscles: Piriformis, Gluteus Maximus

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home
  • Works at the gym

none

Home Options

  • bodyweight

No equipment? Try: towel around thigh

Dosage

2

Sets

25 sec

Reps / Time

15 sec

Rest

20-30 sec hold each side

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Lie on your back with both knees bent
  • Cross one ankle over the opposite knee
  • Keep head and shoulders relaxed
  1. Gentle Figure-4 Glute Stretch - Step 1 of 4: Gently pull the bottom thigh toward your chest

    Step 1 of 4

    Gently pull the bottom thigh toward your chest

  2. Gentle Figure-4 Glute Stretch - Step 2 of 4: Stop when you feel a mild stretch in the buttock

    Step 2 of 4

    Stop when you feel a mild stretch in the buttock

  3. Gentle Figure-4 Glute Stretch - Step 3 of 4: Keep the stretch gentle - never force

    Step 3 of 4

    Keep the stretch gentle - never force

  4. Gentle Figure-4 Glute Stretch - Step 4 of 4: Hold and breathe deeply

    Step 4 of 4

    Hold and breathe deeply

Breathing

  • Breathe slowly and deeply
  • Exhale to relax deeper

Form Cues

  • Keep stretch mild - 4-5/10 intensity max
  • Relax shoulders and neck
  • Keep both hips on floor
  • Breathe into the stretch

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Pulling too hard
  • Forcing range of motion
  • Letting hips lift off floor
  • Holding breath

Safety Information

Keep mild. Stop if causes sharp SI pain.

Progressions

Gradually increase hold time

Regressions

Keep foot on floor instead of pulling