What's the fastest way for me to learn the splits?

Hi all,

I've checked out Van Zandt threads and I'm still confused on how to arrange a routine.

Basically, I want to be able to achieve the side splits. That's my main goal for right now.

I've been doing relaxed stretches with a leg stretcher every day/night for 2 weeks now and I haven't got anywhere.

I'm currently in Taekwondo, practice is usually on M, W, F -- we basically do warm-ups, focus on the main part, do some ab work/or arm work after, and stretch on our own times after class.

I just need something to follow every day that will get me to my side splits. Please help!!!!

 

Google the phrase "Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation" and apply the concepts to your leg stretching device.

 

2 weeks is really not a long time.

 

I mean I know all about that stuff. I even have the book "Stretching Scientifically", but there's really not anything solely directed to the side-splits.

 

TIME and PATIENCE.

Nothing came be develop being rushed.

It is a process, slower for some compared to others

 

I've never been interested in doing the splits myself, but I imagine doing hip induction/abduction will help with the strength required.

 

I understand that it takes time, but I just want to make sure what I'm doing is effective, because it's not effective, then it would be a waste of time.

 

Effecive for what...cheerleading?

 

...taekwondo

 

I knew a lot of TKD practitoners over the decades. Splits were never a effective methos or concern to perform or prerequisite

 

You are right on one side of the coin, but on the other side, people tend to think performing splits will help in effectiveness. Thus helping in high kicks

This is not a absolute

As I have stated, Ive known a lot of TKDers who cannot split, or they were not concerned about this.

The main focus was the art

 

Part of the reason for me wanting to do the splits is because they DO help with high kicks because static-passive flexibility helps to increase your range when kicking dynamically. I was going to work on them simultaneously.
All I asked was for help, not to be ridiculed.

 

Thank you so much. I'm proud to be here! I'll check those videos out right away!

 

My apology on coming off that way.

I've been in a wierd mood for awhile-not and excuse, a explanation

That all said, I still hold ground that this is not a absolute.

Many TKDers I know, were never overly concerned with this routine.

It is like when people hand condition.
Sure, its a conditioning, but is it worth the time and effort?


Try taking two cinder blocks (found at any building supply) and position them at the widest apart for you. Then stand on these while performing your basic blocks in front of a TV.

Also, to help, stretch another muscle group by sitting in "butterfly"-standard position on floor.

Stack books or weights on top the knees in front of the TV

The TV is a distraction plus allows time to pass without notice

Again-sincere apology


As I also had stated, the time it takes is entirely upon the individual.

 

Thanks no hard feelings! I don't have any cinderblocks, but I'll tie some books together lol.

 

Reverse pelvic floor thrust will also help.

What must be remembered, there are other muscle groups which have to be stretched, other than the single position of trying to actually split.

 

So should I do this routine everyday? I did it today and it felt awesome. Would it be too much though if I were to do it Monday - Thru Saturday

 

Stretching....

I am very interested in this as well.

I have been doing TKD for 1 1/2 years now and my stretching hasn't really come on alot. I decided early on not to worry about it and see how it goes but my kicks haven't been rising and my instructor tells me I need to work on it.

You have the right idea in stretching EVERY day but I cannot give more advice than this. My age is a disadvantage for me 'cause I know it is going to take longer.

I am looking into Elastisteel but early days.

Please keep us posted on how you get on.