World's Greatest Stretch
A deep lunge with an upward torso rotation that combines a hip stretch with an opening chest movement.
How to do it
- Start in a high plank with your hands beneath your shoulders.
- Step one foot forward to the outside of the hand on the same side.
- Keep the rear leg extended and the supporting arm straight.
- Bend the free arm and bring its elbow down inside the front leg within a comfortable range.
- Rotate the chest toward the front leg and extend that arm upward.
- Return the hand toward the floor, repeat smoothly, and then change sides.
Key technique cue
Elbow toward the foot, back flat; rotate from the chest, eyes follow the hand.
Common mistakes
- ✕ Rounding the back to force the elbow lower.
- ✕ Letting the front foot roll onto its edge.
- ✕ Moving beyond a comfortable stretch range.
- ✕ Rushing between the downward reach and upward rotation.
Benefits
- ✓ Combines hip stretching and upper-body rotation.
- ✓ Includes a stretch for the front-leg glutes and hamstrings.
- ✓ Offers a dynamic movement for a warm-up sequence.
About the exercise
The world's greatest stretch combines a long lunge with a controlled turn through the upper body. The front foot sits outside the supporting hand, the rear leg extends behind, and the free arm reaches upward as the chest opens. The bent-leg glutes and hamstrings are stretched while the rear hip opens. The elbow moves down inside the front leg before the upward reach. Keep the supporting hand planted and the front foot stable, use a comfortable range, and return smoothly to the low-lunge position before repeating.
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