Stretching is one of the most important tenets of yoga, and it can be incredibly beneficial all across your body, as it can help to relieve tension at important points, help you to feel more relaxed, as well as help strengthen your muscles.
There are many different types of stretches that the different forms of yoga teach, and there are just as many distinct areas of the body to stretch, so it can often be a bit overwhelming trying to find the perfect stretch for a specific part of the body!
You’re likely here because you want to know some of the best ways to stretch your shins, right?
If so, then you have come to the perfect place, because we are going to take a look at the very best ways to give your shins a good stretch to keep them healthy and strong.
Read on down below to get started!
How To Stretch The Shins
There are many different ways to stretch the shins, each of which offers a very different experience, and has its own benefits. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at our first one!
Standing Toe Stretch
This is an incredibly simple but effective method that makes for a great introduction. In order to pull this stretch off, you will want to make sure that you are standing upright. If you wish, you can use a nearby wall to support yourself.
Once you are in a comfortable and stable position, you will then want to crouch slightly, to allow a slight bend in the knee.
With one foot still placed firmly on the ground, lift the other foot, and place it slightly behind the foot that is planted on the ground, with your legs crossing. Bend the foot so that the top of the foot is touching the ground.
Ensure that your toe is still touching the ground, and then pull the leg that you are stretching forward. You will begin to feel intense stretching all across the top of your foot all the way to your shins.
Move your foot to the point where the stretching sensation seems strongest, and then hold that position for around 30 seconds.
Once you have stretched one foot, simply adjust your positioning so that you are doing it with the other.
Lying Shin Stretch
In order to do this stretch, you will need to lie on your side, so it is worth ensuring that you are comfortable but propper up. We suggest using a yoga mat for this exercise.
Once you are lying on your side, simply bend the knee of one of your legs, and hold the foot. Pull the foot as close to your back as you can, and feel the shin beginning to stretch.
Make sure not to overexert yourself, but once you have reached your limit, simply hold the position for around 20 seconds.
Once you have done one set, swap over to the other leg. You can make this exercise even more effective by also pulling the knee backward along with the foot, as this will stretch the quads!
Anterior Tibialis Stretch Kneeling
This is an incredibly effective workout if you want to really give your shins a workout.
Start by finding a comfortable spot on the floor, preferably with a yoga mat for comfort and support, and then sit down on your feet, with your knees bent in front of you. Place your hands flat on the floor for support.
Already, you should be able to feel a stretch across your shins. From here, you can make the stretching more powerful by leaning forward and raising your body up slightly, pushing on your feet.
Your feet should still be top-down, with your toes supporting your weight. This will increase the sensation of the stretching, so push until you reach the limit, and then hold the position for around 30 seconds for a full stretch!
Knee Lunge Shin Stretch
This is a slightly more advanced stretch for those of you that really want to work on your shins. If you experience any intense discomfort when pulling off this exercise, make sure to stop it.
Give yourself a good warm-up before engaging in this stretch, and then sit down on your yoga mat, on top of your feet, with the tops of the feet touching the floor.
Once you have taken that position, bring the ankles and the calves of each foot closer together, and place your hands flat on the floor behind you.
Once you are in that position begin to lean back on your hands, and push your knees forward slightly. As you do this, the muscles in your feet will be stretched, and you should be able to feel it right across your shins.
Once you are in position, simply hold the stretch for around 20 seconds.
To Conclude
These are just a few of the many ways you can stretch your shins, but they are definitely amongst the very best.
If you want to bring some flexibility to your shins, or you want to increase their strength, then we strongly recommend trying a combination of these exercises to get it done.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Loosen Tight Shins?
If you notice that your shins have become incredibly tight, perhaps due to exhaustion or overexertion, then there are a few things you can do.
If your shins are tight, it is recommended to rest them right away. It is also recommended to use ice and compression to help alleviate inflammation. Where possible, you should also try to elevate your feet.
What Causes Tightness In The Shins?
If you have noticed that your shins are tight, it may be because you have overexerted yourself at some point. This is why it is important to stretch the shins before engaging in intense activities.
Is It Good To Stretch Shins?
Absolutely. Stretching your shins can help you to avoid overexerting them during exercise, and can also be used to help alleviate shin splints.
The positive effect yoga had on me was indescribable. Every aspect of my life improved, from social to mental, physical to emotional.
I want my website to help more people get into the world of yoga and teach them how to be present for themselves - even if that’s just for a few minutes a day.
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