Stretch out those thighs for your knees’ sake

The fronts of our thighs, called the quadriceps, are often a very strong muscle group in our bodies. When they tighten up, they can pull at the front of the knee, causing pain. To keep this part of your thighs limber, try this flexibility move at the end of all your workouts.

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1 Lie on your side with both legs extended. Rest your head on your forearm and form a straight line with your entire body. Pull your abdominals in to prevent your back from overarching.

2 Bend the top leg’s knee, grasping your ankle. Move your heel toward your buttocks. Bring your top knee directly above your bottom knee, and gently tuck your hips under until they are in line with your shoulders. Feel the stretch in the front of your top leg. Hold this stretch and relax for 20 seconds. Release the leg and repeat on the other side.

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-- Karen Voight