Single Leg Lying Knee Hug Stretch

Beginner Mobility

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A lying stretch: on your back, hug one knee to your chest while the other leg stays straight on the floor. Stretches the glutes and the back of the thigh.

Also known as: Single Knee to Chest Stretch, Knee to Chest Stretch, Lying Knee to Chest Stretch, Lying Single Knee Hug

How to do the Single Leg Lying Knee Hug Stretch

  1. Lie on your back, both legs straight.
  2. Bend one knee and hold your shin just below the knee.
  3. Gently pull the knee toward your chest, other leg straight on the floor.
  4. Hold this stretch for a few breaths, then release and repeat on the other leg.
Full technique — 6 steps
  1. Lie on your back with both legs straight on the floor.
  2. Bend one knee and bring it toward your chest.
  3. Hold your shin just below the knee with both hands.
  4. Gently pull the knee closer to your chest until you feel a stretch in your glutes.
  5. Keep the other leg straight on the floor and your head resting down.
  6. Breathe steadily, then release and repeat on the other side.

Common mistakes

  • Holding your breath during the hold
  • Pulling the knee in too hard
  • Lifting the straight leg off the floor
  • Letting the tailbone lift
  • Lifting the head off the floor

Form cues

  • Hug knee close
  • Keep other leg straight
  • Keep tailbone down
  • Breathe slowly

Quick answers

What muscles does the Single Leg Lying Knee Hug Stretch work?

Primary: Glutes 7/10, Hamstrings 6/10.

When should I do the Single Leg Lying Knee Hug Stretch in a workout?

Warm-up. Done at the start to get the body ready. ≈ 2 min with rest.

How many sets and reps of the Single Leg Lying Knee Hug Stretch?

Strength: 1–2 sets of 20–30 reps, rest 15 s, 6 reps in reserve. Muscle growth: 1–2 sets of 20–30 reps, rest 15 s, 6 reps in reserve. Endurance: 2 sets of 30–45 reps, rest 15 s, 6 reps in reserve.

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