Pterodactyl Take-off

Balance, Calming, Flexibility, Lower Limb, Postural Strength and Control, Upper Limb, Yoga

Strengthens ankles, legs and abdominals
Improves hip/pelvic mobility, which is important for posture and sitting crossed-legged
Improves balance

Uses

A great stretch to do before or after sitting (to stretch the hip flexor muscles that become tight with prolonged sitting).
A helpful stretch before and after gross motor activities (e.g. running, sprinting, high jump and long jump).

Instructions

Stand like a star, with your feet wide apart and arms at shoulder height
Turn your left foot to be pointing to the left
Bend your left leg so your knee is over your ankle. Slide your feet further apart, until you can feel your legs stretching.
Hold for 5 deep breaths, then switch sides

child_boy_pterodactyl_takeoff_1

Watch Points

Your bent leg’s foot turned outwards
Your bent knee directly over the ankle
Chest upright
Arms straight out to the sides
Shoulders down and back

Seated:

Sit with your arms out straight and lean over towards one side. If possible, slide one leg out wide to the side, and lean your upper body over to that side. Hold for 5 deep breaths, then switch sides.