Are you struggling to improve your splits or forward fold despite endless stretching routines? I know how frustrating that can be, and in my latest YouTube video, I’m here to help you unlock your hamstring flexibility with three powerful techniques—no more relying on passive stretches! I’ll give you a sneak peek into the tips I share in the video to help you get flexible fast.

Test and Retest: Know What Works for You

Before diving into any new flexibility routine, it’s essential to understand how your body responds to different techniques. A great way to do this is through a method called test and retest. This is exactly what I show you in the video. We begin by testing your forward fold, so you can gauge how your body feels before we introduce the new techniques. Each tip I share may work differently for everyone because our bodies are unique, but that’s why this method is so valuable—because you’ll see which one makes the biggest difference for you!

Tip 1: Ballistic Stretching—Dynamic Movement for Flexibility

One of the first techniques I introduce in the video is ballistic stretching. If you’re used to static stretching, where you hold a position for an extended time, this will be a game-changer. Ballistic stretching involves dynamic movements, and in the video, I guide you through leg swings, which are an excellent way to engage your hamstrings and improve flexibility quickly. Just remember—approach this with caution. As I explain, less is more when it comes to ballistic stretching. Ease into it, and listen to your body.

Tip 2: Air Hunger—Unlock Your Brain’s Power

The second tip I share is one that has truly transformed my students’ progress—it’s called air hunger, and trust me, it’s often a revelation! Air hunger works by activating the midbrain, which increases global flexor tone—basically, it helps your body get into those deeper stretches. The technique is simple: breathe in, fully breathe out, and hold your breath while performing a dynamic movement like squats or marches. The key here is to hold your breath for as long as you can, until you feel the need to breathe again. This trick helps your nervous system engage in a new way, which can unlock new ranges of flexibility in your forward fold. The results may surprise you!

Tip 3: Sensory Stimulation—Prime Your Body for Stretching

Lastly, in the video, I talk about a lesser-known but super effective technique: sensory stimulation. This might sound strange, but stimulating areas of your body like your hands, feet, and spine can actually prepare your nervous system for greater flexibility. In the video, I guide you through a quick routine where we rub these key areas for about 20 seconds each. By stimulating these regions, you’re telling your brain that it’s safe to explore new ranges of motion.

Time to Retest

After trying these three techniques, we go back to that forward fold and see what’s changed. Most of my students notice immediate improvements, and I’d love for you to experience that too. Ready to give it a go? Head over to my YouTube video and try out the full routine for yourself.

If you’re eager to unlock even more flexibility, I’ve also got a full-length yoga class on the channel that incorporates these techniques. Don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know which tip worked best for you!

Let’s stretch smarter, not harder. See you on the mat!