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Hamstring Strap Stretch (Small Range)

BeginnerstretchTier T1
Hamstring Strap Stretch (Small Range)

Gentle hamstring stretch using a strap to control range. Modified for SI joint protection by limiting range of motion.

Targets: SI Joint
Muscles: Hamstrings

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

Home Options

  • strap or belt
  • strap or belt + towel

No equipment? Try: towel, belt, yoga strap

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 legs straight
  • Loop a towel or strap around one foot
  • Keep opposite leg bent or straight on floor
  1. Hamstring Strap Stretch (Small Range) - Step 1 of 4: Slowly raise the leg using the strap

    Step 1 of 4

    Slowly raise the leg using the strap

  2. Hamstring Strap Stretch (Small Range) - Step 2 of 4: Keep a slight bend in the knee

    Step 2 of 4

    Keep a slight bend in the knee

  3. Hamstring Strap Stretch (Small Range) - Step 3 of 4: Stop when you feel a mild stretch behind the thigh

    Step 3 of 4

    Stop when you feel a mild stretch behind the thigh

  4. Hamstring Strap Stretch (Small Range) - Step 4 of 4: Hold and breathe - don't pull further

    Step 4 of 4

    Hold and breathe - don't pull further

Breathing

  • Breathe slowly and deeply
  • Exhale to relax into stretch

Form Cues

  • Keep stretch mild - don't force
  • Slight knee bend is OK and preferred
  • Keep hips flat on floor
  • Relax shoulders and neck

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Pulling leg too high
  • Locking knee completely straight
  • Letting hip lift off floor
  • Holding breath

Safety Information

Stop if nerve symptoms increase (tingling, shooting pain).

Progressions

Gradually increase range as tolerated

Regressions

Reduce height, increase knee bend