Straight Leg Kicks
Straight Leg Kicks
Proper Technique:
- While maintaining an erect torso, rapidly kick forward while bringing the opposite arm forward
- The leg should be straight as possible during the kick while striving to bring it to chest level so that the foot can connect with the opposite hand at the peak of the stretch
- The arm should be extended so that it is parallel with the ground
- Movement occurs in the sagittal plane
Targeted Muscles
- Hamstrings
- Lower Back
- Hip Flexors
RECOMMENDED LINKS
- Read about the benefits of a proper warm up routine
- http://www.fit-2-hit.com - Blog on Athletic Conditioning & Health
- http://www.conditioning-coach.com - Tennis & Conditioning Coach
Improper Technique:
Bending of the torso forward to reach down to the leg.
The kick should reach up to the hand; the hand should not be dropped down to the foot.
Positions:
Common Errors:
Stepping up onto the toes of the supporting leg. This limits the true stretch of the targeted muscle.
Video:
- Stretching: