Partner Straight-Leg Raise Self-Check
In pairs, one student lying down raises a straight leg while the partner watches the angle reached, using the other leg and the vertical line as references. It helps students rate hamstring flexibility, spot differences between legs, and pick a stretch to improve.
How to play
- Students pair up with one mat and one form; the teacher demonstrates three reference points: leg at 45 degrees, at 70 degrees, and straight up (1.5 min).
- Student A lies face up with legs straight; B kneels alongside and gently holds A's opposite knee down so it doesn't lift (0.5 min).
- A raises the right leg straight, without using the hands, as far as possible without bending the knee and holds for 3 seconds; B watches from the side (1 min).
- B marks the range on the form: under 45 degrees, 45 to 70 degrees, or over 70 degrees; repeat with the left leg (1 min).
- Partners switch roles so B lies down while A observes and records (2 min).
- Each student compares both legs: if there is a big difference or a leg is under 70 degrees, they hold a hamstring stretch for 30 seconds on the tighter leg while the partner keeps time (3 min).
Rules
- The knee of the raised leg stays straight and the foot stays relaxed.
- The observer only holds the resting leg and never pushes the raised one.
- Safety: raise the leg slowly and stop at a strong pull.
Variations
Easier
Measure only the dominant leg and have the partner help read the form.
Standard
Measure both legs, compare them, and choose a stretch.
Harder
Repeat the measurement after stretching to see whether the angle changed right away.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: if the student can't lie down, they observe and record for another pair or measure seated with the leg straight on a chair.
- Shyness: let students choose a trusted partner and keep the form private, never shared out loud.
- Fitness level: students already above 70 degrees focus on keeping both legs even.
Learning goals
- Assess hamstring flexibility in a simple way.
- Identify differences between the right and left legs.
- Choose an appropriate stretch based on the result.
Equipment for a class of 25
- yoga mats: 13
- self-assessment forms: 25
Teacher tip
Explain that flexibility varies a lot between people and the goal is self-knowledge, not competition.
PatioLab has "Partner Straight-Leg Raise Self-Check" and 3999 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
More activities like this
More cool-downs for Middle School
4-7-8 Guided Breathing
Guided 4-7-8 breathing: breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 7 and breathe out for 8, to calm the class at the end of the lesson.
5-5-5 Breathing with Visualization
A breathing technique where students inhale, hold and exhale for five counts each while picturing a peaceful place.
5-Minute Breathing Mindfulness
A short, teacher-guided mindfulness practice focused on the breath and body sensations.
5-Senses Mindfulness
Using the 5-4-3-2-1 technique, students calmly notice 5 things they can see, 4 they can hear, 3 they can touch, 2 they can smell and 1 they can taste.
90/90 Hip Switches
A floor sequence based on the 90/90 position, with one leg in front and the other to the side, both bent at right angles, to stretch the glutes and hip rotators.
Agonist-Antagonist Stretch Match
In pairs, one student performs and names a stretch and the partner must answer with a stretch for the opposing muscle; then both hold both stretches.