Stuck at a desk all day? This is the one move you must do.
There’s no denying it: Sitting all day wreaks havoc on your hips. And it’s not just resulting in minor aches and pains—over time, this tightness can affect your mobility and flexibility.
Minimize the damage by doing this stretch from Jenn Seracuse, director of Pilates at Flex Studios in New York City. “It’s an excellent way to release the hips and tight glutes,” she says. You’ll be amazed how much easier you’re able to move—and deeper you can squat!
The Move: Figure 4 Stretch
Start lying on your back with knees bent, feet flat on the floor. Lift right leg and cross right ankle over the knee. Reach hands around left leg to meet under thigh (as shown). Draw the left thigh towards you while keeping torso pressed against floor. Use your right elbow to gently press right knee away from you as you draw thigh in closer. Hold for 3-5 breaths, deepening the stretch with every exhale, then switch sides.
Photo of Jenn by Jay Sullivan