Weekly Hip Stretch – Butterfly Stretch You Can Do
This week we continue our adductor stretch series (also known as groin muscles or inner thigh muscles), with the butterfly stretch.
You may feel these stretches closer to the pelvis, or closer to the knee or right in the middle of the inner thigh. It all depends on your particular adductors and how they’re doing on any given day.
Illuminate me…
The butterfly is a pretty classic stretch. If you’ve ever taken a yoga class you’ve likely encountered it.
This version is for non-yogis. If you recognize the stretch and always thought it was inaccessible, this is for you. I go through options for inner thighs with less or more flexibility.
I also add in some resistance to work the adductors a little while they’re stretching. This is more of a dynamic stretch. Since muscles are built to work, adding some resistance while stretching helps keep the blood flowing and warms up the muscles.
Try it…
You can do this on the floor, sitting up on a block or low stool, or seated in a chair.
Whichever you choose, make sure you sit up straight throughout. No rounding in the low back. It changes what you’re stretching.
Don’t forget to breathe!
Here’s the exercise. Try it and let me know how you like it!
As always, go slowly and listen to your body.
Wishing you happy hips!