Good Form: Wall aids in thigh and hip stretch
Lying down on the floor with your legs resting against a wall is an excellent way to relax and re-energize. These two poses are especially helpful for stretching and relaxing your inner thigh and hip muscles. It’s best to do them after a workout or whenever you have time to stay in the positions for a while.
Start by lying on your right side, knees bent toward your chest, with your buttocks close to a sturdy wall. Roll onto your back and straighten your legs against the wall. Straighten both legs out to the sides and slide them down the wall as low as you can, making sure they are on the same level. Keep your knees straight and your feet flexed (by pressing out through your heels). Rest your hands on your inner thighs. Focus on your breath while staying in this pose for one or two minutes.
Bend your knees, bringing the soles of your feet together. Move your hands to the insides of your thighs and press gently to encourage your knees to open and your hips to stretch. Hold this position for one or two minutes. Concentrate on relaxing your buttocks and keeping your hips on the floor as you breathe fully.
Voight is the creator of a line of fitness DVDs, including “Full Body Stretch” and “Ballet BodySculpt.”
