Flexibility is key to a healthy body. Stretching exercises that focus on the lower body will ensure your muscles stay lengthened and limber.

Make sure to check out the video to see the full explanation for how to perform these stretching exercises!

I start with a deep hip stretch. I bend the top leg and pull both legs toward me. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds. Feel the stretch inside your hip.

The “Pretzyl” stretch is similar to the previous stretch, but with this one I cross one knee over the other. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds. Feel the stretch inside your hip.

Stretching your hamstrings is important for your legs, lower back, and for good posture. The set up is a hurdler’s stance on the floor. Bend toward the outstretched foot and hold for 30 seconds. Switch legs.

For the straddle stretch, straddle your legs as far as is comfortable and stretch forward. Hold for 30 seconds.

Continue the straddle stretch by stretching toward your left foot (this is where I also feel the stretch in my lower back). Hold the stretch for 30 seconds. Switch legs and stretch toward the other leg for 30 seconds.

Put the bottoms of your feet together. Let your knees fall as far as they will go. At first, your knees will probably be quite high. Put a bit of pressure on your knees to press them toward the floor. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds.

Put your legs together for the straight stretch and stretch toward your feet. Hold for 30 seconds.

If you have a strap or belt handy, you can do calf stretch #1, one foot at a time. Lie on your back. Use the strap to stretch your calf toward you, holding for 20 to 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.

To do calf stretch #2, use a wall or furniture to place your hands. Put one foot back with the heel on the ground. Feel the stretch and hold it for 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.

To do the quad stretch, use a wall or a piece of furniture to place your right hand. Bend your left knee and pick up you left foot with your left hand. Stretch the quad muscle until you feel a bit of a stretch. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.