Standing Hamstring Curls

Work your hamstrings without taking time out of your busy schedule!
This exercise is perfect for busy people because you can fit this into your life when you are already standing: when you are cooking, waiting in line, brushing your teeth, etc.
To prep for this exercise, engage your low abs, by pulling them into your spine, pull up in your pelvic floor and drop your tailbone. This helps to avoid creating tension in your low back and diminishing the amount of work your hamstring is able to do.
As you curl your heel up toward your seat, make sure to keep your lower leg in line with your upper leg, not allowing the foot to lift toward the outside or inside of the body. This can also be achieved by thinking about keeping your upper thigh stable, not letting it roll in or out.
Finally, if you feel this exercise in your low back or upper glute area, you are not using your hamstrings but are allowing your tailbone to tilt backwards and your abs to release. Therefore, make sure you pull up in those low abs and keep that pelvis stable to stay out of your low back and upper glutes.
 

 
Want more exercises that are easy to fit into your busy life? Schedule your free 90 minute consultation.
Addie Kelzer is a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant. She believes that by making fitness and good food practical, her clients will hold the power to positively change their health and the health of those closest to them.