Lunge quad stretch

Source: Best Health Magazine, May 2010; Illustration by Kagan McCleod

Try this move to stretch your gluteal (butt), quadriceps (fronts of thighs) and calf muscles. It’s a favourite of Miles Faber, a So You Think You Can Dance Canada finalist and professional dancer in movies such as Harriet the Spy and the upcoming Score: A Hockey Musical. He does this move as part of his stretching routine before any physical activity. ‘This stretch shouldn’t feel uncomfortable,’ he says. ‘If it hurts your knees, try knee pads or do it on a mat.’

Technique

Step forward with your left foot and lunge down, so your left thigh is parallel to the floor. Hold for 20 seconds. Rest your back (right) knee on the floor and grasp your right foot with your right hand. If you need to, rest your left hand on a wall for balance. Hold for 20 seconds. Repeat on the other side. ‘It’s important to stay upright with an open chest,’ says Faber. ‘You don’t want to be hunched over. You want your shoulders back and down.’ Give it a go!

This article was originally appeared in the May 2010 issue of Best Health. Subscribe today to get the full Best Health experience’and never miss an issue!