Move Better: 3 ways to stretch tight hip flexors.

Have you ever thought that you feel really stiff and tight when you get up out of a chair or from the car? This might be due to tight hip flexors. Tight hip flexors are everywhere. But, especially for older adults and people with neurologic disorders, tightness in the hip flexors can really influence movement. I have had clients who improve their gait speed after a good hip flexor stretch! Most people comment that they can move much more smoothly and with longer strides. Or, even better, without back pain. Below are 3 different ways to stretch the hip flexors and between the three of these, you should find one that is doable and feels like a good deep stretch. Try them out just before you get moving and notice how your movement improves!

Standing hip flexor stretch--a good one to do on the go, before a walk or other standing exercise.

Kneeling hip flexor stretch. This is my personal favorite because it isolates the muscle so well--less room for cheating.

Lying down hip flexor stretch. This version is great if it is difficult to get in the other positions or you want to do a quick stretch in bed before you get up.