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Question: How can i improve my flexibility!?
I am flexible more than others but i can't do the splits!. I can easily touch my toes without hurting myself unlike many of my friends!. Im starting ballet in september but i want to get more flexible before i start!. I also don't want to go to a yoga, pilates of gymnastics class because where i live they cost up to $1000 (its one year long)!. So i just want some good stretches that can get me more flexible and in shape, but i also can do them in my own living room!.Www@QuestionHome@Com


Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
Some people are just more naturally flexible than others!. I believe that ANYONE who really works at it can learn to do the splits!. However, before you try to get into a split, be sure you have stretched your legs!.

Try a pike stretch 1st; sit on the floor on a pike, legs straight, toes pointed, and try and get your nose as close to your knees as you can!. Hold for 30 seconds!. Next, flex your feet, keeping the nose as far down as possible!. After you have done this, sit in a wide straddle, and attempt to get your elbows on the floor!. Hold 30 seconds, then reach your hands as far out as possible, attempting to put your nose on the floor!. Again, hold 30 seconds!.

Next, place either leg in front, and lunge from your knee; your rear knee is on the floor, your front foot is far in front!. Hold 30 seconds, then sit back, straighten the front leg, and try to place your nose on your knees!. Then slide as far into the split as you are able!. Repeat on the other side!. Hold each position 30 seconds!.

NEVER bounce while stretching or push yourself past the point of pain!. Slow and steady does it!.

Many people feel that the body is more flexible after a warm bath, so you may want to try these drills after a warm bath!. I advise doing this 2 times daily, morning and evening!. If you keep at it, you should see a lot of improvement in your flexibility!.

If you want to make your foot point, start by pointing your toes and, with your hands, push them as far as you can (without considerable pain)!. Do this about 15 times!. Then, bend your knees and make sure (with your toes pointing) your foot is flat on the ground!. Gradually try to straighten your knees, keeping the toes pointed and touching the ground!. Eventually (if you keep this up every day) you will be able to keep your legs straight with your toes touching the ground!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Just try doing the splits every day and every day you will stretch more!. My 7 year old couldn't do them last week and yesterday she was able to do them!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

There are some good pilates videos out there on dvd, that you can buy cheap and do at home!. I bought one myself and I do it 2-3 x a week!.Www@QuestionHome@Com