Back Kick Stretch

The rearward leg raise involves purely the hip flexors and extensors. The static active type of stretch can be achieved by raising the leg as far upward as possible without assistance using only the contractile power of the extensor muscle (gluteus maximus). Further movement upward converts this to an isometric stretch of the hip flexors. Pressure on the kidney area caused by the enlargement of the extensor muscle can be uncomfortable. The standing leg need not be involved at all if standing upright. Leaning forward will compromise the raised leg stretch and involve hip extensor of the standing leg to maintain posture. Turning the foot outwards to produce balkal will involve an isometric or passive stretch of the sartorius muscle of that leg depending on the condition of the muscle.