At this point, my hips have been tight for so long that I genuinely don’t remember what “loose” hips are supposed to feel like. And as various physios have explained to me over the years, it’s not simply because I don’t stretch enough. It’s also down to weaknesses in my core and glutes, which work alongside the hip flexors and adductors to support the joint, balancing stability with mobility.
That said, stretching would definitely help. But do I do it? I do not, and I’d wager many of you can relate. Stretching, even as a health writer, often feels like adult homework: when you get back from a run or log off after a long day, the last thing you want to do is roll out a yoga mat and dedicate 20 minutes to loosening your body. Far more appealing to curl up into a pretzel and doomscroll your way to dinner instead, right?
