Tight lateral hip? Try this stretch

Date: 
Monday, April 23, 2018 - 12:30
pretzel stretch

If you find that the outside of your hip is tight, try this stretch.  The gluteus medius and minimus muscles are small muscles on the outside of the hip, which are responsible for moving the leg away from the midline of the body, and as well for stabilizing the hip when standing, especially on one foot.  As well, these important muscles assist in swinging the leg forward when walking.  They can get very tight, and this stretch, which I call the "pretzel" stretch, is a great one for helping to release tension in this area.  Always stretch muscles when they are warm, ideally after a warm bath or shower.  If you are unable to do this, then at least take care to stretch when it is room temperature.  Now that spring seems to be here (finally), you probably won't have to worry about coming in from the cold.  Thank goodness!

As always, check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.  Have a great day, and happy stretching.