STANDARD
PURPOSE
The Thigh Stretch is the fourth exercise in the Recovery Drill.
It develops flexibility in the hip and knee joints.
Figure 16-4 shows the movement as Soldiers conduct it in a formation.
CADENCE
Recovery stretch held for 20–30 seconds
STARTING POSITION
The starting position for the Thigh Stretch is the Sitting position with the arms at the sides and palms on the floor.
COUNT
● On the command, “READY, STRETCH,” roll on the right side and place the right elbow and forearm on the ground directly below the shoulder.
The right hand makes a fist with the thumb side up.
Grasp the left ankle and pull toward the left buttock.
Push the left thigh further to the rear with the heel of the right foot.
Hold this position for 20–30 seconds.
● On the command, “CHANGE POSITION, READY, STRETCH,” move back through the starting position before changing sides to stretch the right leg.
Hold for 20–30 seconds.
● On the command, “STARTING POSITION, MOVE,” return to the starting position.
CHECK POINTS:
● Keep the abdominal muscles tight throughout this stretch in order to keep the trunk straight.
● Do not pull the heel forcefully to the buttock if there is discomfort in the knee joint.
PRECAUTION:
N/A
THIGH STRETCH (MODIFIED)
PURPOSE
The Thigh Stretch can be modified by reducing the knee range of motion.
Figure 16-13 breaks down the movement as Soldiers conduct it in a formation.
CADENCE
Recovery stretch held for 20–30 seconds
STARTING POSITION
The starting position for the modified Thigh Stretch is the Sitting position with the arms at the sides and palms on the floor.
COUNT
● On the command, “READY, STRETCH,” roll on the right side and place the right elbow and forearm on the ground directly below the shoulder.
Fist the right hand with the thumb up.
Grasp the left ankle and pull toward the left buttock.
Ensure the right leg remains straight.
Hold this position for 20–30 seconds.
● On the command, “CHANGE POSITION, READY, STRETCH,” move back through the starting position before changing sides to stretch the right leg.
Hold for 20–30 seconds.
● On the command, “STARTING POSITION, MOVE,” return to the starting position, and then to the Position of Attention.