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Reviewed March 2026

Hip 90-90 Stretch

StretchingBodyweightIntermediateStretching

Primary

Stretching

Secondary

Hips, Glutes, Hip Rotators

Equipment

Bodyweight

Difficulty

Intermediate

Type

Isometric

Written byMySetPlan Training Team

NASM-CPT, CSCS certified trainers. Every guide is built from peer-reviewed research and real coaching experience.

An isolation exercise that lets you focus on one muscle group, the Hip 90-90 Stretch targets your stretching through a isometric hold pattern. Use for hip mobility and flexibility.

Everything You Need to Know About the Hip 90-90 Stretch

The Hip 90-90 Stretch is a intermediate difficulty exercise that targets your Hip rotators and Gluteus medius. It's a popular choice for building strength and muscle in these areas. When should you use it? Use for hip mobility and flexibility. This timing makes the most of your workout and helps you get better results. Who is this for? Intermediate to advanced for optimal results. Whether you're just starting out or working toward a specific goal, this exercise fits into your routine.

What muscles does the Hip 90-90 Stretch work?

Primary

Hip rotatorsGluteus medius

Secondary

Piriformis

Stabilizers

CoreSupporting limbs

Step-by-step: Hip 90-90 Stretch

  1. 1

    Sit on floor with one leg in front, knee bent 90 degrees.

  2. 2

    Other leg to side, also bent 90 degrees.

  3. 3

    Front shin parallel to torso.

  4. 4

    Back thigh perpendicular to torso.

  5. 5

    Sit up tall - this is a common issue that reduces exercise effectiveness.

  6. 6

    Fold forward over front leg for deeper stretch.

What are the best tips for the Hip 90-90 Stretch?

Great hip opener for optimal results.

Use props if needed.

Work both internal and external rotation.

Mistakes to watch for on the Hip 90-90 Stretch

Sitting unevenly for optimal results.

Isometric holds like the Hip 90-90 Stretch build strength at specific joint angles. This mistake changes the angle and reduces how hard your Hip rotators has to work. Lock into position and hold it.

Rounding back which increases risk of spinal injury.

A compromised back position during the Hip 90-90 Stretch puts your spine under unnecessary shear force. Brace your core and maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement.

Forcing position for optimal results.

Isometric holds like the Hip 90-90 Stretch build strength at specific joint angles. This mistake changes the angle and reduces how hard your Hip rotators has to work. Lock into position and hold it.

Who should do the Hip 90-90 Stretch?

Intermediate to advanced for optimal results.

How to Program the Hip 90-90 Stretch

Strength30 sec holds

Lower reps with heavier weight builds raw strength. Your muscles and nervous system adapt to handle more load over time. This range is best for strength-focused goals.

Muscle Growth45-60 sec holds

This rep range keeps your muscles under tension long enough to trigger growth. Most people see the best muscle-building results in this zone. It balances strength and muscle size.

Endurance60-90 sec holds

Higher reps with lighter weight builds muscular endurance and improves conditioning. This range is good for joint health and building work capacity.

General guideline: 2 holds of 45-60 seconds each side.

What are good alternatives to the Hip 90-90 Stretch?

Other Variations

  • 90-90 Hip Switch
  • Elevated 90-90

This Exercise Is in Your Plan

MySetPlan picks the right exercises for your goals — like the Hip 90-90 Stretch — and builds them into a monthly program. Every set, every rep, planned out.

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Safety Notes

  • Use props for support.
  • Dont force depth.