Q&A for How to Do a Straddle Split

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  • Question
    What muscles do straddle stretch work?
    Tanya Berenson
    Gymnastics Instructor
    Tanya Berenson is a Gymnastics Instructor and the General Manager of the Los Angeles School of Gymnastics. With over 25 years of professional gymnastics experience, Tanya has also served as a consultant to USA Gymnastics, has served as the USA World Maccabi Games Head Coach, USA Gymnastics Meet Director, and RAS counselor. She holds a B.Ed. in Early Childhood Development from the University of California, Los Angeles.
    Gymnastics Instructor
    Expert Answer
    Straddle stretches work your inner leg muscles, which are called the adductors.
  • Question
    Do I have to force to get the straddle?
    Aimee Hughes
    Community Answer
    You do not need to force, but it will certainly hurt. Try to practice twice a day at least, and push yourself so it hurts - but not so hard you pull a muscle. Once you get the straddle, keep practicing so you don't have to relearn it later on.
  • Question
    How can I get the split if I am not flexible?
    Community Answer
    You practice every day! Do a split as far down as you can. Either have someone carefully push you down or slowly push yourself down. This is a process and takes time. Make sure to stretch before because you do not want to pull muscles.
  • Question
    Can I eat a certain food to help me achieve the splits?
    Easylogoapparel
    Community Answer
    No, the only way to achieve the splits is to stretch and practice.
  • Question
    One average, how long will it take to learn to do a split?
    Community Answer
    It really depends on the person. If you're just beginning to work on your flexibility, it could take you a month or two.
  • Question
    Can I do gymnastics if I'm not flexible?
    Community Answer
    Yes! There are many types of gymnastics, such as swinging and flipping, in addition to splits and handstands. If you want to do a split, and you are not flexible, then have a coach help you get into position and work you through it. The more you practice, the better you'll get!
  • Question
    Does this depend on age?
    Community Answer
    No, anyone can do a straddle split at any time.
  • Question
    Does it count if my back is arched?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but you should make it as straight as you can.
  • Question
    How to get a bigger and wider straddle position?
    Community Answer
    Try learning how to do the middle splits first and then you'll get into the feel of widening your legs.
  • Question
    Can I start dance if I can't do the splits?
    Community Answer
    Of course! Once you start dancing, you’ll get a lot more flexible, so you may be able to do splits even more quickly after starting to dance.
  • Question
    How long does it usually take to get my splits?
    19_diamond_19
    Community Answer
    Stretching daily improves your time. I stretched twice daily for 2 weeks and almost had my splits. 2 weeks to a month is a good time frame.
  • Question
    If I can do straddle splits, will I be able to get my middle splits?
    Community Answer
    The straddle splits and the middle splits are actually two different names for the same exercise! It seems that you are asking if you will be able to do the front split (where one leg is extended out front and the other is extended backwards.) Keep consistently practicing and stretching! You will eventually be able to do it if you persevere.
  • Question
    Is it harder to do the splits if I'm tall?
    Tom De Backer
    Top Answerer
    No. The length of your body has no influence on your ability to do the splits. Agility, dedication, training: those things will get you there.
  • Question
    How do you transfer from a straddle to middle splits?
    Red Tree
    Community Answer
    You should only transfer from a straddle to middle split when you can get a full split on either side. Once you got that, then your body, slowly, to avoid injuries, towards the other side.
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