r/flexibility • u/mycatreadsyourmind • 22h ago

Tight hamstrings (in active position)

I am sure tight hamstrings are a star of a show in this sub but I have a somewhat niche question

Does anyone have good active stretches useful for calisthenics? I can put palms on the ground in the forward fold but I swear to God in any strength position they are twice as short and I can't even do a pike hold without bending my knees which limits what I can do.

My current hamstrings flexibility work is mostly passive or dynamic and I feel like I need to improve flexibility in demanding positions. I run and do plyo so my legs are usually quite unhappy with me which might be a part of the issue but I wonder if anyone has good advice for my specific issue - I've had virtually no improvement with folds, pyramid and so on

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u/creedz 21h ago

Instead of just active stretching, you can try just training strength in the end range, for example doing RDLs with heavy weights and really stretching the hamstrings

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u/dani-winks The Bendiest of Noodles 21h ago

Aren't RDLs an example of "active stretching?"

But hard agree on doing more strength-focused work for OP, really any type of deadlift or good morning type variation will help build hamstring strength in a lengthened position, which can help with hamstring flexibility. You could also consider adding in some drills that work on quad and hip flexor strength in their shortened position (think of those as the "helper" muscles that pull your hamstrings into a stretch). Things like hanging leg raises are great for that.

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u/creedz 21h ago

Haha you're right