How to Practice the Splits

When you do the splits, you spread your legs at right angles to your torso. In order to do the splits, you have to be quite flexible. The feat works best when the legs are spread against a flat surface. While some people are naturally more flexible than others, you can improve your flexibility with regular practice. Practice the splits daily in order to see improvement. If you can't yet complete the splits, you'll find you can spread your legs a bit farther each day.

Things You'll Need

• Comfortable clothing

Instructions

1. Warm up your muscles by walking, jogging or performing some other cardiovascular exercise. If you don't properly warm up before attempting the splits, you may hurt yourself.

2. Choose which leg will be in front. Most people have more flexibility on one side.

3. Place one foot forward and the other behind you.

4. Slide your feet farther away. You'll slowly inch down toward the floor.

5. Use your arms to stabilize your body as you get closer to the floor. Your hands should be placed on the floor for support.

6. Stop sliding when you feel discomfort in your legs. Do not continue if you feel pain. If you do, you may pull a muscle.

7. Remain in the splits position for a few minutes. This will help your muscles to become accustomed to the pose.

8. Practice the splits every day. You'll find you are able to get closer to full splits every time you practice.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time. It takes time to build up to full splits.

• Stop immediately if you feel pain. If you don't, you may injure yourself.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish