Learning How to Perform the Splits

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Learning How to Perform the Splits Some people are just more naturally flexible than others. I believe

that ANYONE who really works at it can learn to do the splits.

However, before you try to get into a split, be sure you have

stretched your legs.

Try a pike stretch 1st; sit on the floor on a pike, legs straight,

toes pointed, and try and get your nose as close to your knees as you

can. Hold for 30 seconds. Next, flex your feet, keeping the nose as

far down as possible. After you have done this, sit in a wide

straddle, and attempt to get your elbows on the floor. Hold 30

seconds, then reach your hands as far out as possible, attempting to

put your nose on the floor. Again, hold 30 seconds.

Next, place either leg in front, and lunge from your knee; your rear

knee is on the floor, your front foot is far in front. Hold 30

seconds, then sit back, straighten the front leg, and try to place

your nose on your knees. Then slide as far into the split as you are

able. Repeat on the other side. Hold each position 30 seconds.

NEVER bounce while stretching or push yourself past the point of pain.

Slow and steady does it.

Many people feel that the body is more flexible after a warm bath, so

you may want to try these drills after a warm bath. I advise doing

this 2 times daily, morning and evening. If you keep at it, you should

see a lot of improvement in your flexibility.

The above information is used with the permission of Lee, a host of

the Gymnastics Forum.

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