Stretch - Standing Hamstring and Calf

Recommendations: 1-2 Sets, 1-5 Reps, 10-20 Dur

Intermediate Hamstrings Calves Stretching Band Gym

Purpose: This exercise provides flexibility and mobility of the hamstrings.

Benefits: A major problem with many athletes who use their legs (such as runners, footballers, ice skaters) is the hamstring injury. This exercise is a core stretch for the hamstrings which will help reduce this type of injury.

Stand upright. Loop a band around your right foot. Place the right foot forward. Bend your left leg slightly to reduce the stress on your lower back. Keep the right leg straight, while raising the toes of the foot from the floor. Lean forward. This is the starting position. Pull on the band to pull the toes towards your body. This will increase the stretch in the back of the leg. Hold the position for 10-20 seconds. Return to the starting position. Repeat for the recommended number of repetitions. Stand upright. Loop a band around your left foot. Place the left foot forward. Bend your right leg slightly to reduce the stress on your lower back. Keep the left leg straight, while raising the toes of the foot from the floor. Lean forward. This is the starting position. Pull on the band to pull the toes towards your body. This will increase the stretch in the back of the leg. Hold the position for 10-20 seconds. Return to the starting position. Repeat for the recommended number of repetitions.

The Hamstring muscles group are responsible for bending the knee. Some members of this group also straighten the hip (hip extensors). They are located on the back of the thigh.