This is a great exercise for improving balance, hip strength, and mobility throughout the whole lower extremity. It'll also give you a nice butt in the process!
I've used it extensively to increase muscular tolerance to running and improve strength to the buttock region which is important to just about every movement.
People who have flat feet will find this exercise particularly useful, as flat feet can be a strong indicator of weak butt muscles.
It may be difficult for those who have knee pain, but once you've attained a level of comfort for your knees; this movement will help to re-enforce the knee musculature in the post rehab phase.
Step#1 Be certain that the starting posture is perfect. Stand with the chest high holding a straight back with the head high over the shoulders.
Step#2 Look for equal bend from the hip, knee, and ankle as you bend forward on one leg, keeping the chest high and back straight.
Step#3 As your torso gets lower be certain to maintain the straight back and not curve it just so that you can touch the floor. It's not about depth as much as it's about perfect technique.
Step#4 If you can, touch the finger tips to the floor, adjust the posture to be sure you're maintaining the straight back. Slowly return to the upright position. The full movement should take about 5 seconds to complete.
At the bottom of the movement, you want to be sure that you aren't slumping to one side. Keep the shoulders and hips level with one another. The number of repetitions will vary from person to person, but you can try and start with 6-8 per leg and repeat 3 times. Do them every other day.
Remember this is all about technique if you want to reap the benefits of the exercise. Once you've perfected the movement you can add weight by holding a dumbbell in the hand of the supporting leg, but only increase with weight that will permit for good technique.
Always see your healthcare provider before beginning an exercise program.
I've used it extensively to increase muscular tolerance to running and improve strength to the buttock region which is important to just about every movement.
People who have flat feet will find this exercise particularly useful, as flat feet can be a strong indicator of weak butt muscles.
It may be difficult for those who have knee pain, but once you've attained a level of comfort for your knees; this movement will help to re-enforce the knee musculature in the post rehab phase.
Step#1 Be certain that the starting posture is perfect. Stand with the chest high holding a straight back with the head high over the shoulders.
Step#2 Look for equal bend from the hip, knee, and ankle as you bend forward on one leg, keeping the chest high and back straight.
Step#3 As your torso gets lower be certain to maintain the straight back and not curve it just so that you can touch the floor. It's not about depth as much as it's about perfect technique.
Step#4 If you can, touch the finger tips to the floor, adjust the posture to be sure you're maintaining the straight back. Slowly return to the upright position. The full movement should take about 5 seconds to complete.
At the bottom of the movement, you want to be sure that you aren't slumping to one side. Keep the shoulders and hips level with one another. The number of repetitions will vary from person to person, but you can try and start with 6-8 per leg and repeat 3 times. Do them every other day.
Remember this is all about technique if you want to reap the benefits of the exercise. Once you've perfected the movement you can add weight by holding a dumbbell in the hand of the supporting leg, but only increase with weight that will permit for good technique.
Always see your healthcare provider before beginning an exercise program.
