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.

© 2000-2026 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.
walking figure

Bone and Joint Care

Find expert care for joint pain, injuries, and conditions that affect how you move at the HPH Bone & Joint Centers.

Learn More
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Quadruped Arm-Reach Exercise

Try these reach and hold exercises to stretch your neck and upper back.

Read article
Orthopedics
Back Exercises: Knee Lift

Learn how to do a knee lift to help strengthen your core muscles.

Read article
Orthopedics
Foot and Ankle Exercises: Single-Leg Heel Raise

Learn how to do a single-leg heel raise to stretch and strengthen your feet and ankles.

Read article
Orthopedics
Leg and Knee Exercises: Leg Lunge

This exercise helps stretch and strengthen your knee.