Photo: Snapped! by Becca Clark
Calling all those who want to be point jumper!!! If you’re having trouble getting your toe touch higher than level, I have 2 important tips for you:
1. Stretch Your Elevated Straddle
Doing a regular straddle can only get you so far. If you want your legs to go higher than your chest, start stretching straddle with both feet elevated on yoga blocks (or something of similar height).
The goal for a hyperextended toe touch will be to have your stomach flat on the floor in this stretch while your feet are elevated. The higher they’re elevated while your stomach is on the floor, the more flexibility you’ll have to use in the toe touch.
2. Strengthen Your Iliopsoas & Glutes
Your iliopsoas is a hip flexor muscle responsible for lifting your legs higher than 90 degrees. If you’re looking to gain the strength to lift your legs higher than level in your jumps, do exercises that strengthen this muscle.
Here’s an example below:
Doing hip flexor exercises that do not lift your legs above 90 degrees will not build the strength required for hyperextended jumps.
Since toe touches also involve some hip abduction (bringing your legs to the side), your glutes should be strong to assist with that movement. Any exercises involving hip abduction will make it easier for you to lift your legs up and out.
For more jump exercises and stretches, click here.
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