---
title: "Iron Cross Stretch"
description: "Lie on your back with your arms extended out to your sides, forming a T-shape, and your legs extended straight."
locale: en
slug: iron-cross-stretch
url: "https://hi.fitness/exercises/iron-cross-stretch"
primaryMuscle: "Lower Back"
secondaryMuscles: ["Glutes","Lats","Quads"]
equipment: ["Mat"]
category: "Mobility"
format: "Time"
video: "https://hi.fitness/exercise-media/public/video/eb88a0b8-iron-cross-stretch.mp4"
updatedAt: 2026-10-20T13:27:30+00:00
---
# Iron Cross Stretch

Lie on your back with your arms extended out to your sides, forming a T-shape, and your legs extended straight.

## How to do it

1. Lie on your back with your arms extended out to your sides, forming a T-shape, and your legs extended straight.
2. Lift your right leg towards the ceiling, keeping it straight, and then lower it across your body towards your left hand while keeping your shoulders flat on the floor.
3. Allow your right leg to lower as far as comfortably possible, feeling a stretch in your lower back, glutes, and hamstrings.
4. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds, then slowly return your right leg to the starting position. Repeat on the other side with your left leg.

## Form tips

- Only stretch as far as is comfortable without causing pain or discomfort.
- Perform the stretch on a comfortable surface, such as a yoga mat, to prevent discomfort or injury.
- If you have limited flexibility, bend your knee slightly to reduce strain and gradually work towards straightening your leg.

## Similar exercises

- [Knee to Chest Stretch](https://hi.fitness/exercises/knee-to-chest-stretch) - Lower Back · Bodyweight
- [Bodyweight Standing Back Stretch](https://hi.fitness/exercises/bodyweight-standing-back-stretch) - Lower Back · Bodyweight
- [45 Degree Hyperextension (Arms in Front of Chest)](https://hi.fitness/exercises/45-degree-hyperextension-arms-in-front-of-chest) - Lower Back · Roman chair
- [45 Degree Hyperextension Arms to Chest](https://hi.fitness/exercises/45-degree-hyperextension-arms-to-chest) - Lower Back · Roman chair
- [Back Extension Machine](https://hi.fitness/exercises/back-extension-machine) - Lower Back · Roman chair
- [Superman](https://hi.fitness/exercises/superman) - Lower Back · Bodyweight
- [Lying Back Extension](https://hi.fitness/exercises/lying-back-extension) - Lower Back · Bodyweight
- [45 Degree Twisting Hyperextension](https://hi.fitness/exercises/45-degree-twisting-hyperextension) - Lower Back · Roman chair
