The butterfly stretch is a seated exercise that primarily targets the inner thighs (adductors) and hip flexors, while also engaging secondary muscles such as the hamstrings and lower back. Here’s a breakdown of the muscles it stretches:
Primary Muscles Targeted
- Adductors (Inner Thighs): These muscles are stretched as the knees drop outward and toward the floor.
- Hip Flexors: The stretch helps loosen tight hip flexors, improving mobility and reducing tension.
Secondary Muscles Targeted
- Hamstrings: While not directly stretched, they are engaged during modifications like leaning forward.
- Lower Back Muscles: Helps relieve tension and improve posture by elongating the spine.
- Pelvic Floor Muscles: Engaging these muscles during the stretch can strengthen them.
Benefits
- Improves hip mobility and flexibility.
- Relieves tension in the inner thighs and hips caused by prolonged sitting.
- Enhances posture by reducing anterior pelvic tilt.
- Reduces lower back and pelvic pain.
- Minimises injury risk by increasing range of motion in the hips.
This stretch is beneficial for athletes, desk workers, or anyone seeking to improve lower body flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness.
