Shin Box Quad Stretch

The Shin Box Quad Stretch is a seated mobility exercise that targets the hips and quadriceps through simultaneous internal and external rotation. It effectively opens up tight hips and improves lower body flexibility for better squat depth and daily movement quality.

Exercise movement reviewed by:Marie Braga, PT, DPT, CSCS
How Iridium Helps

Since mobility work is often skipped or rushed, the AI ensures you hold this stretch for the optimal duration based on your specific recovery needs and HRV data. If you consistently rate this movement as highly uncomfortable (high RPE), the app recognizes potential limitation in hip internal rotation and can suggest specific regressions or foam rolling prep work to improve your range of motion over time.

Form Cues

Do
  • Create 90-degree angles with both knees
  • Keep your chest tall and spine neutral
  • Push both knees gently into the floor
  • Lean back onto your hands to deepen the quad stretch
  • Breathe deeply into the tightness
Don't
  • Don't round your lower back while leaning back
  • Don't force your knees down if you feel sharp pain
  • Don't let your hips lift excessively off the floor
  • Don't hold your breath while stretching

Common Mistakes

  • Rounding the spine
  • Insufficient knee angle (less than 90 degrees)
  • Forcing the range of motion
  • Holding breath during tension
  • Collapsing the chest

Muscles Worked

This movement primarily targets the quadriceps and hip flexors, specifically isolating the rectus femoris and the internal rotators of the hip. It also engages the core stabilizers to maintain an upright posture, making it essential for unglueing the hips after sitting or heavy lifting.

Primary

QuadricepsHip Flexors

Secondary

General Core

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