Hamstring Stretch

Keeps the back of the thigh flexible.

Hamstring Stretch exercise illustration

What it helps

Keeps the back of the thigh flexible so the knee moves freely and your stride stays comfortable.

How to do it

  1. Lie on your back, or sit with the leg extended.
  2. Gently bring the straight leg toward you until you feel a stretch behind the thigh.
  3. Hold, then relax.

Tips

  • A towel looped around the thigh can help. Hold 20-30 seconds.

Commonly done as 4-5 repetitions, daily.

Where this appears in recovery

Hamstring Stretch is part of 7 recovery programs, most often at the wound and swelling (weeks 0–2), return to running (months 3–6) and before surgery · foundation (8–12 weeks before surgery) stages, among others. Each program shows how it fits alongside the other movements:

All exercise guides · Condition guides · Recovery education

These are general exercise guides, not a personal prescription. The repetitions and frequency shown are what's commonly used — your own surgeon or therapist may advise something different, and their guidance comes first.