Quadricep Stretches

Quadricep stretches are a great way to reduce knee pain and help prevent injuries. Muscle tightness is a common cause of knee pain as it changes the way the forces go through the knee making it more prone to injury.

The Quadriceps are made up of four muscles that run down the front of the thigh. They control how the knee straightens, and are particularly important for activities such as kicking and running.

If the quadriceps get tight, they can pull the kneecap out of position slightly, causing friction at the knee.

Here are the 2 best quadricep stretches for the muscles on the front of your thigh. If you haven't already read the introduction to knee stretches page, click the link for information on how to tell if your quadriceps are tight, and how to get the best results from stretches.

You only need to do one of these quadricep stretches - pick whichever you prefer, and remember, to be effective you need to: Hold the stretch for 30 seconds and repeat it 3 times. Always stretch before and after any sports to reduce your risk of injury.

1) Standing Quads Stretch

Starting Position: Stand on one foot, holding the back of a chair to balance. With your free hand, hold the ankle of the stretching leg behind you.

Action: Pull your heel towards your bottom until you feel a strong stretch in the front of your thigh. Hold for 30 secs.

Repetition: Repeat 3 times, 2x daily, or before and after exercise

Note: Keep your upper body up straight – don’t lean forwards or it reduces the stretch

Progression: To stretch further, carry out the exercise as described but also push the pelvis forwards and take the knee backwards

2) Lying Quads Stretch

Starting Position: Lie flat down on your tummy

Action: Bring your heel towards your bottom pulling at the ankle until you feel a stretch in the front of your thigh. Hold for 30 secs.

Repetition: Repeat 3 times, 2x daily, or before and after exercise

Progression: 1) Prop yourself up on your elbows and carry out the exercise as described above
2) Place a pillow/rolled up towel under your knee and carryout the exercise as described above. Can combine with progression 1 to stretch further

What Next?

To get the best results from quadricep stretches, see the knee stretches guide for top tips on getting the maximum benefit from the minimum effort.

If you want to find out how to stretch your other knee muscles check out the hamstring stretches, glutes stretches, ITB stretches and calf stretches pages.

If you are wanting to build up the strength of your quadricep muscles, go to the knee strengthening exercises section.

Go to Knee Exercise Guide or Homepage

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Updated 30th April 2013
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