4 Most Underrated Stretches That Give HUGE Flexibility Results

These are the 4 most underrated stretches that can give you huge flexibility results. Do them consistently and you will see a big difference in how you move and feel.

Are you tired of the same old stretches that seem to hit the same muscle groups without delivering the flexibility gains you crave? It’s a common frustration, and there’s no shade on those familiar stretches—they certainly have their merits. However, breaking through to new levels of mobility might require a fresh perspective and some underrated stretches that target often-neglected areas.

In a video recently shared, Liv Towsend talked about what she believes to be the 4 most underrated stretches that people should do to get huge flexibility results.

Liv Townsend is known online as Livinleggins. She is a self-taught yoga teacher that has accumulated a big following. She posts daily tips on her Instagram account about stretching, yoga and mobility. You can also check out her YouTube channel here.

we’re about to explore four stretches that go beyond the usual suspects, delving into muscles that many conventional stretches simply don’t reach. The best part? These stretches are not only effective but also super accessible, making them suitable for anyone looking to enhance their flexibility. So, let’s dive into the world of underrated stretches and give them the recognition they truly deserve.

Source: Johanna Gminder

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Flexibility is a journey, and sometimes, all it takes is a different approach to unlock the doors to improved mobility. The stretches we’ll explore go beyond the typical repertoire, addressing specific muscle groups that play a crucial role in overall flexibility. If you’ve been feeling stuck in your progress, these underrated stretches might just hold the key to breaking through those limitations and achieving the flexibility you’ve been striving for.

So, buckle up as we journey into the world of underrated stretches that have the potential to transform your mobility game. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, an athlete, or someone looking to enhance their overall well-being, these stretches offer a fresh perspective on how to approach flexibility training. It’s time to give your body the variety it craves and explore stretches that could be the missing piece in your flexibility puzzle.

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4 Most Underrated Stretches That Give HUGE Flexibility Results

Here are the 4 most underrated stretches that give huge flexibility results according to Liv Townsend.

1. Cowface Stretch for Hip Flexibility:

The gluteus medius, located on the outer upper portion of the hip, is a muscle that many traditional stretches fail to effectively target. Tightness in this area can lead to difficulties in sitting cross-legged, back pain, and even sciatica. Enter the Cowface Stretch.

To perform this stretch, start in an all-fours position, cross one leg behind the other, and widen your feet. Gradually sit back between your feet, aiming for stacked knees and a level pelvis. Adjustments can be made based on your flexibility, such as shifting weight back or using a yoga block for support. This stretch challenges the gluteus medius, contributing to improved hip mobility.

2. Tilted Eagle Stretch for Shoulder Flexibility:

Addressing the often-neglected muscles surrounding the shoulder blade, the Tilted Eagle Stretch offers versatility in targeting various shoulder muscles. With bent elbows at 90 degrees, intertwine your arms and explore different adjustments, such as lifting fingers towards the sky or tilting forearms to each side. This stretch, especially the lateral tilt variation, provides a thorough stretch for the supraspinatus muscle, a key player in shoulder mobility.

3. Supine Assisted Hamstring Stretch for Hamstring Flexibility:

While the importance of bending the knees in hamstring stretches is acknowledged, there’s a crucial aspect often overlooked. The hamstrings cross two joints—the hip and the knee. To target the distal end of the hamstring, try the supine assisted hamstring stretch.

Lie down, loop a strap around the foot, and straighten the leg. Pull the leg towards you, allowing the arms to hang off the strap for assistance. This stretch ensures a comprehensive stretch for the entire hamstring, addressing both hip and knee flexibility.

4. Plantar Fascia Stretch for Full Body Flexibility:

Understanding the role of fascia, the thin connective tissue enveloping muscles and organs, is key to the final underrated stretch. The plantar fascia, located in the soles of your feet, can significantly impact overall flexibility. To stretch and release the plantar fascia, tuck your toes under and sit back onto your heels.

This simple yet effective stretch might seem subtle, but it can improve flexibility in the entire backline of your body, including the hamstrings. Some participants experienced a substantial increase in forward fold range after releasing their plantar fascia, emphasizing the interconnected nature of the body.

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Incorporating these underrated stretches into your routine is a surefire way to elevate your mobility. Remember, the techniques you use for stretching matter just as much as the stretches themselves. So, give these stretches the recognition they deserve and pave the way for a more flexible and mobile you!

Watch the video to find out how exactly how to do each of those 4 most underrated stretches performed by Liv Townsend.

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Stretching isn’t just a routine for athletes or fitness enthusiasts; it’s a practice that offers a myriad of health benefits for individuals of all ages and activity levels. Here’s why incorporating stretching into your routine is not just good but essential for your overall health:

1. Improved Flexibility:

• Stretching helps to increase the flexibility of your muscles and joints. This increased range of motion can enhance your ability to perform daily activities and reduce the risk of injuries, especially as you age.

2. Enhanced Range of Motion:

• Regular stretching contributes to improved joint health. It allows joints to move through their full range of motion, preventing stiffness and maintaining optimal function.

3. Reduced Muscle Tension:

• Stretching helps to alleviate muscle tension and tightness. It promotes relaxation by releasing accumulated tension, reducing discomfort, and improving overall muscle function.

4. Better Posture:

• Stretching can correct and prevent poor posture by balancing the muscle groups around the spine and shoulders. This, in turn, contributes to a more aligned and upright posture.

5. Increased Blood Circulation:

• Stretching improves blood circulation to various parts of the body. This enhanced blood flow ensures that muscles receive an adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen, promoting overall cardiovascular health.

6. Stress Relief:

• Stretching induces a relaxation response in the body, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, contributing to improved mental well-being.

7. Enhanced Athletic Performance:

• For athletes, stretching is crucial for performance improvement. It prepares muscles for activity, increases flexibility, and reduces the risk of injuries during physical exertion.

8. Injury Prevention:

• Regular stretching plays a significant role in preventing injuries by maintaining the elasticity of muscles and connective tissues. It prepares the body for physical activities, reducing the likelihood of strains, sprains, and other injuries.

9. Improved Circulation to Muscles:

• Stretching increases blood flow to muscles, aiding in the delivery of nutrients and removal of waste products. This improved circulation supports muscle recovery after exercise.

10. Better Coordination and Balance: – Stretching helps improve proprioception—the awareness of your body in space. This, in turn, contributes to better coordination and balance, reducing the risk of falls, especially in older individuals.

Incorporating stretching into your daily routine, whether through dedicated sessions or integrated into other activities, is a holistic approach to maintaining and promoting overall health. From physical benefits like increased flexibility to mental well-being and stress relief, stretching is a simple yet powerful practice that contributes to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

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