11/29/2025
After a run, try a seated figure-4 stretch! Sit on the edge of a park bench and cross the ankle of one leg over the opposite thigh. Sit up tall, then gently lean forward from your hips until you feel a stretch in your hip and buttock, holding for 20-60 seconds before switching sides. This stretch targets the hip rotators and gluteal muscles.
To increase the stretch, gently press your hand against the knee of the crossed leg to open the hip joint further.
For a deeper stretch, you can grab the bottom leg and pull it gently toward your chest while hinging forward.
Avoid rounding your spine; focus on hinging at the hips.
If you feel any pinching, catching, or pain in the hip joint, stop the stretch. Hold the stretch for 20–60 seconds, breathing deeply. Switch sides.