Flexibility

DebSM2

Any tips for increasing flexibility, particularly my knees? I really want to be able to sit on the floor cross-legged rather than having my legs extended (I have three young children and am a teacher of young children). I still have some weight to lose (5'9", 180 lbs currently) but I thought I would have this by now. I really can't comfortably bend my knees enough to grasp my ankle behind and stretch, and sitting cross-legged is uncomfortable. I don't have general knee pain and I currently run an average of 20 miles a week so that is not really the issue, I just am not flexible...maybe that I am 40 is also a factor?

gypsy_spirit

Try beginning yoga. You can find free programs on YouTube. Start slow and work on the stretching and holding poses. They really help with flexibility.

Good luck. :flowerforyou:

SunofaBeach14

Start sitting on the floor cross legged every day for as long as you can. If you can, yoga, but it sounds like you have some work to do to get there.

yogicarl

A good yoga teacher will be able to work with you at whatever level of flexibility, strength and stamina you currently have and lead you every step of the way to where you want to be gradually.

xcalygrl

Also suggesting yoga. A yin yoga class might be beneficial since it really focuses on stretching and flexibility. Also, like a PP suggested, just practice sitting on the floor cross-legged for as long as you can.

DebSM2

Thanks for the ideas...are there any good Yoga videos anyone could recommend? Tough to get to a class with the littles...

alyssareyans

Thanks for the ideas...are there any good Yoga videos anyone could recommend? Tough to get to a class with the littles...

I'm like you. Have trouble sitting with my legs crossed but I have old injuries that also contribute to being not so flexible. I do the yoga here http://www.runnersworld.com/runners-world-yoga-center

I like to do these videos because they're geared towards runners.

Sharon_C

I would start with some simple stretches every day.

gypsy_spirit

Thanks for the ideas...are there any good Yoga videos anyone could recommend? Tough to get to a class with the littles...

When I started, I just looked at the basic poses. They're are pretty easy (most are) and do them for as long as you can hold the pose. Increase the time as it becomes easier.

If you have to have a program:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=H3vLZqPZxZE

I like her and she has classes that progress. The main thing is to work towards these poses. I still don't have the flexibility in my left knee that I need - but it's getting better.


ETA: The runner's world link above is very helpful too. I'm 56, so age does play a role - but not a big one unless you let it. Good luck!

yoginimary

It's not your knees that are tight. To sit on the floor cross-legged, requires flexibility in the buttock (sometimes referred to as hip) muscles. To bring your heel to your hip requires flexibility in the quadriceps. I would search for those two types of stretches. Yoga will help of course.