Stretch It: Double Quad Stretch


Updated 05/15/11 7:31 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 4 comments

How to Stretch the Quads 2010-08-12 12:00:04

All you runners and bikers out there, I feel your pain. Our quads can become so tight and sore that we crave a good stretch for the front of our thighs. Kneeling Shin Stretch feels good, but if that's too easy for you, take it to the floor. This makes the stretch intense, but also relaxing. To hear how to do this stretch read more Read more

Stretch It: Hugging Pigeon Hip Stretch


Updated 07/29/10 7:15 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 2 comments

Hip Stretch For Runners and Bikers

Blue skies and a warm breeze totally motivate me to exercise outdoors, so I've been doing lots of running, biking, and hiking. My muscles are becoming stronger, but they're also getting tighter, especially my hips. If you're in need of a good hip stretch, give this Pigeon variation a try. Bending your bottom knee next to your thigh intensifies this stretch so you also feel it in your quad, shin, Read more

5 Good Morning Stretches


Updated 03/13/12 10:33 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

5 Stretches to Do in the Morning

Instead of hitting the snooze button in the morning, I take the extra 10 minutes to stretch. It's a great way to get the juices going in the morning and ease away any stress or tension from the previous day's activity or a funky sleeping position. Since stretching before breaking a sweat is debatable, I keep my morning stretches simple — I don't even have to leave the bed to do them! Try this Read more

Maximize Your Quad Stretch


Updated 02/24/11 11:02 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

Photo of David Beckham Stretching Quad Muscle

David Beckham can make a common quad stretch look sexy. The Pilates instructor in me, however, take issue with his form. His stretching form, that is. To see how Becks can improve his technique, simply read more Read more

Chef Workout: Quad Stretch


Updated 06/13/09 2:22 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

Chef Workout: Quad Stretch

While spending time in the kitchen, why not take a break in between stirring your sautéed veggies and washing dishes? I love stretching in the kitchen and here's a move that will target your upper thighs and shoulders. To learn how to do this stretch read more Read more

Strike a Yoga Pose: Frog


Updated 04/24/09 2:22 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 14 comments

Yoga Pose of the Week: Frog

The yoga pose known as Half Frog allows you to stretch your quads individually, and since I'm a runner and biker, it's one of my favorite stretches. If you like that pose, you should try the more challenging Frog pose that stretches both quads simultaneously. Not only will this pose stretch out the front of your thighs, but it will also give you a nice stretch in your chest and shoulders. Read more

Strike a Yoga Pose: Half Frog


Updated 04/18/09 11:37 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 2 comments

Yoga Pose of the Week: Half Frog

If you liked the Lying Side Quad Stretch, here's a pose that will stretch the front of your thighs a little more intensely. It will also target your shoulders and upper back. Since the full expression of this pose involves bending both knees and is very challenging, let's start with bending one knee at a time. Sanskrit Name: Ardha Bhekasana English Translation: Half Frog Pose To learn Read more

Stretch It: Lying Side Quad Stretch


Updated 07/29/09 1:06 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 4 comments

Stretch It: Lying Side Quad Stretch

If you're a runner, biker, hiker, or on a team sport, stretching your quads is essential. You've probably stretched your quads while standing and balancing on one foot, so here's a relaxing variation you can do on the floor or a mat. For instructions on how to do this read more Read more

Stretch It: Kneeling Quad Stretch Against a Wall


Updated 05/22/08 11:19 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 9 comments

Stretch It: Kneeling Quad Stretch Against a Wall

With all the running, biking, and hiking you're doing in this warm weather, stretching out your legs is a must. Here's a great way to target your quads using a wall. I love it because it gives the muscles in the front of your middle thigh, right above your knee, an intensely deep stretch. Fold up a towel and place it in front of a wall. Kneel down and place your left knee on the towel and your Read more

Treadmill Stretch: Leaning Quad


Updated 03/27/08 10:42 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 7 comments

Treadmill Stretch: Leaning Quad

As I've said before, I love to do a few stretches on the treadmill after a run. If you feel funny about it, you can always do this stretch while leaning on a chair. This will open your quads, your hip flexors, and your shoulders. Hold on to the front of the treadmill or the back of a chair. Bend your left knee and bring your foot behind you. Grab onto the front of your left foot with your left Read more