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Tight Hamstrings? Stretching Isn't Always the Answer.
Stretching more isn’t always the answer. Here’s what might really be going on.
“I just need to stretch more.”
We hear this almost daily in clinic.
Tight hamstrings are one of the most common complaints among runners, gym-goers, desk workers - actually, pretty much everyone. But here’s the thing:
Tight doesn’t always mean short.
Very often, what feels like muscle tightness is actually something else entirely.
So What’s Actually Happening?
There are three common reasons your hamstrings might feel 'tight':
They’re Working Overtime
If your glutes aren’t doing their share of the work, your hamstrings often pick up the slack.
This is especially common in:
- Runners
- People who sit for long hours
- Those returning to training after a break
The hamstrings end up overloaded and overloaded tissue feels tight.
It’s Neural Tension, Not Muscle Length
Sometimes the sensation of tightness isn’t muscular at all.
The sciatic nerve runs through the back of the leg. When it becomes sensitised, it can create that familiar pulling sensation - even if your muscle length is completely normal.
In these cases, aggressive stretching can actually make it worse.
It’s a Load Issue
Sudden increases in:
- Running mileage
- Sprint work
- Heavy deadlifting
Can leave the hamstrings feeling stiff and protective.
That’s not a flexibility issue. That’s a load management issue.
So Should You Stop Stretching?
Not necessarily.
Stretching can feel good. It can reduce symptoms temporarily. But if you’re stretching daily and the tightness always comes back, it’s a sign you’re treating the symptom - not the cause.
Often, the real solution involves:
- Strengthening
- Improving glute engagement
- Adjusting training load
- Managing recovery
How Carter & George Can Help
At Carter & George, we don’t just hand out stretches. We assess:
- Movement patterns
- Strength imbalances
- Running or lifting mechanics
- Training load tolerance
Then we build a plan that addresses the root cause, so you’re not stuck in an endless stretch cycle.
If your hamstrings constantly feel tight, let’s figure out why.
Because flexibility isn’t always the problem.