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The Hamstring Raise and Chest Stretch Exercise
The hamstring raise and chest stretch is a combination exercise that uses two movements – The chest stretch and hamstring curl (raise). I personally use this exercise as a warm up because it helps to stretch out my upper torso while activating my lower body. In addition, it helps to activate my cardiovascular system. The key to this exercise is rhythm. It takes a bit of coordination to get the hamstring raise and chest stretch exercise down pat but after a few tries I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it.
Start Position
Right Leg Raise
Left Leg Raise
Position for the hamstring raise and chest stretch exercise
Stand with your feet two to three feet apart. Keep your back straight and retract your shoulders back and down. Puff your chest out and keep your head level. Slightly bend your knees, raise your hands (to shoulder level) and get into a "ready” position.
How to perform the hamstring raise and chest stretch exercise
To start, extend your arms forward until they are straight and at the same time, raise your right leg (using your hamstrings) upwards towards your butt. As you raise your leg, pull your arms back (bend at the elbows) so that your hands are at the sides of your chest. Lower your leg back to the ground and extend your arms forward. This time, lift your left leg up towards your butt and as you do that, pull your arms back. You should feel a slight stretch in your chest. Repeat this movement until the prescribed amounts of repetitions are completed.
Breathing
Breathe in as lift your right leg towards your butt and breathe out as you lower your leg back to the floor. Repeat with your left leg.
Important points for the hamstring raise and chest stretch exercise
· Keep your head level and eyes forward. Try not to look up or down as this will cause you to lose your balance.
· Remember to retract your shoulders and puff your chest out proud.
· You should feel a slight stretch in your chest area as your pull your arms back.
· It may take a few tries to get the rhythm down pat but after you a few tries you’ll get the hang of it.
Video for the hamstring raise and chest stretch exercise
Over his 30 plus years of experience, Blake Bissaillion has worked with nationally ranked body builders, power lifters and fitness professionals. In this time he has picked up volumes of applied knowledge that he openly shares with his clients. Mr. Bissaillion’s objective is to help as many beginners to weight training and fitness to achieve their weight loss and fitness goals while getting into their best possible shape. Mr. Bissaillion owns and operates Belly Be Gone, a fitness company that offers fitness and nutritional guidance and products.