Its all in the HIPS!

Our hips... We love them when we are dancing, squatting, and any other activity you can think of, but did you know how important they can be for your whole body?
Your hips are the ball and sockets joints formed by the pelvic bone and the end of the femur bone. This is a strong and stable joint which supports your spine, often referred to as the foundation of your body. Many of the major muscle groups you target during exercise are connected to the hip, such as the glutes, quads, and hamstrings. Your hips are also going to affect your knees, hips, and feet, often disguising hip issues into knee, ankle, or foot pain. So, why wait for a hip injury to focus on strengthening and stretching your hips. Keeping your hips strong and mobile can help you recover if needed and also prevent hip pain. Here are a few of our favorite exercises and stretches. Make sure you check with your physician before trying any exercise while injured or recovering.

The Clam Shell

Lay on your side with your feet and knees together. Lift your feet off the ground and open and close your knees. Do this for 20-30 seconds or more and feel the burn!

Side Leg Circle

Lie of your side with your bottom leg bent and top leg extended. Circle your leg 10 times and then reverse directions for 10 more. Repeat 3 times for each leg.

Hip Rotation Stretch

Sit on the floor with one leg straight out from your hip. Cross one leg over with your foot above your knee. Pull your knee into your body and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat for other leg.