How to Do a Catch Polt

When it comes to exercise, flexibility is a must. Enter the "catch polt." The catch polt is a great way to stretch the hamstrings of your legs. Popular in yoga, this stretch will also serve other athletes such as basketball, soccer, hockey, and baseball players well. Here's how to perform the catch polt properly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Move your leg so that it is at a 45-degree angle in front of you. The catch polt consists of one continuous move. Each of these steps should move fluidly into the next.
2. Swing your leg back behind you and catch your foot. Think of a pendulum for this imagery. Also, if you arch your back, it becomes harder to grasp your foot.
3. Bring your hand up toward the back of your calf. At this point in the yoga pose, your hand should be firmly grasping your calf.
4. Straighten your leg slowly in front of you. As you straighten your leg in this yoga pose, you will feel tension against your hamstring. This is the stretch that is occurring.
5. Repeat these steps to complete the catch polt with your other leg so that you stretch your body equally.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the leg that is planted to the ground straight. You will not get the proper stretch if you bend at the knee.
• Exercise with a friend. It will help you stay motivated.
• If you have never done yoga before, don't be afraid to take a beginner's class. The initial positions are quite manageable.