Dismiss Modal

Management

Back Exercises: Leg Reach

Choose a preferred language

Do this exercise on your hands and knees. Keep your knees under your hips and your hands under your shoulders. Keep your spine in a neutral position (not arched or sagging). Be sure to maintain your neck’s natural curve:

  • Tighten your stomach muscles and extend 1 leg straight back. Don’t arch your back or let your head or body sag.

  • Hold for  5 seconds. Return to starting position.

  • Repeat 5 times.

  • Switch legs. 

Stop the exercise if it causes pain. Talk about it with your physical therapist or healthcare provider.

Woman on all fours with back straight.Woman on all fours with one leg stretched out behind.

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Make an Appointment

Make an Appointment

Find a Doctor

Find a Doctor

Find a Location

Find a Location

Related Services

Orthopedics Center

Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Shoulder Exercises: Shoulder Press

Learn how to do a shoulder press to stretch and strengthen your shoulder.

Read article
Orthopedics
Back Exercises: Leg Pull

Use this leg pull exercise to help relieve low back pain.

Read article
Orthopedics
Hand and Wrist Mobility Exercises: Wrist Rotations

Learn this exercise to stretch your hand and wrist.

Read article
Orthopedics
Leg and Knee Exercises: Lateral Step-Downs

Step-up exercises help stretch and strengthen your knee. Learn how to do this exercise.