Low Lunge

Anjaneyasana

The hip-flexor opener that unlocks hip extension — the range squats, sprints and deadlifts all depend on.

DIFFICULTY
Beginner
EQUIPMENT
Mat · Bodyweight
PRIMARY MUSCLES
Quads · Glutes
ALSO WORKS
Lower back
HOW TO DO IT
  1. 01From standing, step one foot back and lower the back knee to the floor.
  2. 02Stack the front knee over the front ankle.
  3. 03Tuck the tailbone under to square the pelvis — this is what creates the stretch.
  4. 04Hold 60–90 seconds, breathing slowly, then switch sides.
COACHING CUES
  1. 01Tuck the pelvis first — without it you're stretching your lower back, not your hip.
  2. 02Squeeze the back glute to deepen it actively.
  3. 03Breathe out into the position rather than forcing it.
COMMON MISTAKES
  1. 01Arching the lower back and calling it a hip stretch.
  2. 02Letting the front knee drift past the toes.
  3. 03Bouncing instead of holding.

Note: Reference material, not a prescription. Load, volume and whether this movement suits you at all depends on your assessment — if something hurts, stop and get it looked at.

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