Which contraindicated exercise involves a hamstring stretch with one leg extended?

• A. Hurdler's stretch
• B. The plow
• C. Back bend
• D. Deep squat

Answer: (A)

Hurdler’s stretch is the one described. In this move you sit with one leg extended straight in front and the opposite knee bent, then hinge at the hips to reach toward the toes of the extended leg. This creates a deep hamstring stretch for the straight leg, but it can be risky for people with tight hamstrings, a history of hamstring strains, or back or knee problems. Pushing into this position can aggravate low back strain or place undue stress on the knee if technique isn’t carefully controlled, so it’s commonly listed as contraindicated for those individuals. Safer alternatives include hamstring stretches performed with both legs extended or using a strap to help achieve the stretch without forcing the pelvis or spine into extreme positions.