Also, it has been believed that people carry emotion in their hips. It is not uncommon for people to be stretching their hips and experience waves and feelings of strong emotions. The hip and glute region is a hugely important, central part of your body and you will experience release, both physically and emotionally, when you stretch this area.

Not to mention, nothing feels better than a deep stretch after a grueling leg workout or intense cardio session.

The first stretch I want to show you for your hip and glute is called the reclined pigeon pose. This pose is amazing for low pack pain as well. As you do this pose, as pictured below, be sure to breathe into it and actively(without bouncing) pull your knee into your chest. Keep your back pressed flat into the ground and don’t lift your butt off the ground too high. Hold for 30 seconds-5 minutes.

Reclined Pigeon Pose Hip/Glute Stretch

The Firelog pose below is one of my favorites because it doesn’t require very much pulling or effort to do. Start seated, stacking one leg on top of the other as shown to the left. You should feel the stretch on the side of whatever leg is on top. For a deeper stretch, try putting your elbows on the floor in front of you or extend your arms out all the way as seen in the picture to the right. Hold for 30 seconds- 5 minutes and be sure to switch sides. Again, this will also bring relief to your low back.

Firelog Hip/Glute Stretch

Firelog Hip/Glute Stretch Progressed

The next pose is called a pigeon pose and I like this one because it also releases your flexor,which is in the front of the hip. I demonstrate it below on the left. Make sure your back legs is as straight as possible and that your back knee is facing the ground. Don’t worry if your front foot and knee isn’t in the exact place as mine… everyone looks a little different in this pose. Be sure you feel the tension in the hip/glute of the leg that is bent. In addition, you should feel your flexor on the straight leg. Hold for 30 seconds- 5 minutes and switch sides.

Pigeon Pose Hip/Flexor Stretch

The last pose I am going to show is for your hip and glute. Some people even feel this run down the side of their leg and experience relief in the IT band. This is a great pose for runners. Simply cross one foot over the other and reach towards the ground.Walk your hands off to the side of whichever leg is in front. You should feel this in the hip/glute of the leg in back. Hold for 30 seconds- 5 minutes.

Cross Over Forward Fold Hip/Glute Stretch