08-05-2025
The exercise more effective than stretching for tight hips
Tight hips are a common complaint often addressed with stretching, but a movement mechanics expert suggests there are more effective methods.
Tightness can stem from the nervous system protecting the body, habitual postures like sitting, or instability in the hip joint.
Instead of stretching, focus on strengthening surrounding muscles like glutes and adductors to improve hip stability and range of motion, Training Stimulus founder Ash Grossmann says.
The "Stimulus Six Lunges" exercise, involving lunges in six directions, is recommended to work the hip through various planes of motion.
Performing this exercise daily can improve hip mobility, and it can be progressively overloaded for strength and performance gains.
