Skip to main content
StretchesFor

Hip exercise guide

Supported figure-four

Bring the thigh closer. This guide covers the setup, suggested dose, muscles and body areas targeted, common mistakes, and a safer way to open the existing guided player at this exercise.

Supported figure-four demonstration

Loading demonstration…

Suggested dose

20 seconds each side

Target area

Back of hip

How to do Supported figure-four

  1. 1Lie with knees bent.
  2. 2Cross one ankle over the opposite thigh.
  3. 3Bring the supporting thigh toward you gently.

Both sides: Complete one comfortable side, reset your position, then repeat on the other. Do not force both sides to match.

Open in guided player

Muscles and areas targeted

  • • hip flexors
  • • gluteal muscles
  • • deep hip rotators

What it may help with

This movement may provide a gentle option for stiffness or load-related discomfort around the back of hip. It does not diagnose or treat every cause.

Common mistakes

  • Pressing the knee
  • Holding your breath

Make it easier

Perform seated with the ankle lower.

Safety notes

Stop if symptoms worsen

Aim for a mild, controlled stretch or light effort around the back of hip. Stop and seek appropriate advice if:

  • Pain becomes sharp, spreading, or stronger
  • New tingling, numbness, or weakness appears
  • You feel dizzy, faint, or short of breath

Do not use this exercise to delay care after a major injury or for severe, unexplained, or rapidly worsening symptoms.