Primary
Stretching
Secondary
Glutes, Piriformis
Equipment
Bodyweight
Difficulty
Beginner
Type
Isometric
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The example below shows one possible placement. Your purchased plan is built from your assessment, and Ely checks every exercise before approving it.
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This page is not medical advice or a rehabilitation protocol. Ely's personal review applies to purchased workout plans and does not replace an in-person assessment by a licensed healthcare professional.
The seated hip stretch, also called the seated figure four, is a chair-friendly stretch that targets the glutes and piriformis without leaving your desk. By crossing one ankle over the opposite knee and leaning forward, you create external rotation and flexion that stretches the deep hip rotators. This is one of the most practical stretches for office workers.
When to use it
Perform at your desk throughout the workday.
Who it's for
Office workers, anyone experiencing hip tightness from sitting, and those with piriformis-related discomfort.
The forward lean should come from your hips, not your back—imagine bringing your belly button toward your crossed shin. Keep your spine long and press gently on the crossed knee if needed. The stretch should be felt deep in the glute of the crossed leg.
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Also targets: Glutes, Piriformis
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Sit in chair with feet flat.
Cross one ankle over opposite knee.
Sit up tall with a straight spine.
Gently press down on crossed knee.
Lean forward from hips.
Hold and switch legs.
Great office stretch.
Keep spine long throughout.
Gentle pressure on knee.
For general fitness, start Seated Hip Stretch with 1-2 light, controlled sets and increase only when the movement remains comfortable. This is not rehabilitation dosage; use the frequency and progression given by your licensed healthcare professional for an injury or surgery.
Rounding the back forward instead of hinging at the hips.
Changing your back position during the Seated Hip Stretch can alter the movement and make the load harder to control. Brace your midsection and keep the torso position called for by the exercise.
Forcing the knee down aggressively.
Letting your knees drift away from the intended line during the Seated Hip Stretch changes how force moves through the exercise. Keep each knee tracking in line with the foot as you move.
Slouching which reduces the effectiveness of the hip stretch.
Losing hip position during the Seated Hip Stretch changes the loading pattern and can reduce the intended work for your Gluteus maximus. Keep your hips aligned with the setup cues and move only through the range you can control.
Office workers, anyone experiencing hip tightness from sitting, and those with piriformis-related discomfort.
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.
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.
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 30-45 seconds each side.
This is one example of how Seated Hip Stretch could sit inside a complete workout. Your plan may use different movements after Ely checks your assessment.
Sample workout
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Seated Hip Stretch
The Seated Hip Stretch primarily targets the Gluteus maximus, Piriformis, making it an effective exercise for stretching development. Secondary muscles worked during the Seated Hip Stretch include Hip rotators, providing additional training stimulus. Stabilizer muscles engaged include Core, Supporting limbs.
Yes, the Seated Hip Stretch is an excellent choice for beginners due to its straightforward movement pattern and lower technical demands. Office workers, anyone experiencing hip tightness from sitting, and those with piriformis-related discomfort. Start with lighter weights to master proper form before progressing.
For the Seated Hip Stretch, the recommended approach depends on your goals. 2 holds of 30-45 seconds each side. For strength, use 30 sec holds. For muscle growth, perform 45 sec holds. For endurance, complete 60 sec holds.
Yes, the Seated Hip Stretch can be done at home with no equipment. It requires minimal space and is a great option for home workouts targeting stretching.
Good alternatives to the Seated Hip Stretch include: Figure Four Stretch, Pigeon Pose, Lying Glute Stretch. These exercises target similar muscle groups as the Seated Hip Stretch and can be used as substitutes based on your equipment availability, gym setup, or training preferences.