Banded Hip Flexion Drill for Stiff Hips, Deeper Squats & Better Deadlift Position (30–50 Reps)

The Ready State (Kelly Starrett)
The Ready State (Kelly Starrett)Apr 10, 2026

Why It Matters

Improved hip mobility directly boosts squat and deadlift performance while lowering injury potential for strength‑training populations.

Key Takeaways

  • Use a high‑position band to stretch hip flexors effectively
  • Perform 30‑50 knee‑to‑chest reps per side daily consistently
  • Alternate internal and external rotation during the drill
  • Target slack removal from calves to isolate hip flexion
  • Re‑test squats or deadlifts to gauge mobility gains

Summary

The video demonstrates a simple banded hip‑flexion drill aimed at alleviating stiff hips, improving squat depth and deadlift positioning.

The instructor places a resistance band high in the hip crease, pulls the knee toward the chest, and repeats 30‑50 oscillations per leg, alternating internal and external rotation to remove calf slack and target pure hip flexion.

He emphasizes “pull the knee to the chest, not just end‑range,” and suggests testing the improvement with a step‑up, squat, or deadlift after the routine.

Regularly incorporating this drill can expand hip range of motion, enhance lifting mechanics, and reduce injury risk for athletes and lifters.

Original Description

If your hips feel stiff and you can’t pull your knee to your chest comfortably, this banded hip-flexion drill helps restore cleaner hip flexion fast. Place a band high in the hip crease, then do 30–50 controlled knee-to-chest reps per side (explore a few angles) and test–retest your squat, step-up, or deadlift for immediate carryover.
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