The Seated Hip Stretch is one of those exercises that looks too simple to do any good.  Yet it is a very powerful way to improve hip mobility.  Sit on the front edge of your chair, and cross your right foot over your left knee.  Then reach both hands down towards your toes.  You should feel the stretch in your right hip.  Don’t forget to repeat on the other side!   

Beginners may only be able to reach forward an inch from vertical; intermediate people may be able to reach about halfway down the shin; full range of motion is being able to reach your big toe with both hands.  The beautiful thing about this exercise is that you don’t need any special equipment!  You can do this at home or at your desk at work.  

Improving hip mobility isn’t just for those recovering from injuries.  Good hip mobility can: 

– Improve your running and weight lifting performance
– Help you do more in flexibility based classes like Yoga or Pilates
– Allow you to retain your ability to tie your shoes and cut your own toenails, even at age 70, 80, or 90
– Reduce your risk of hip and knee injuries

Lisa Snow is a Manhattan personal trainer with over 7 years experience helping clients with post-rehab, chronic pain, and disabilities.