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🦵 Heel Slides

Heel Slides are a beginner knee exercise that targets the quadriceps and hamstrings. Gently bend and straighten your knee by sliding your heel along the surface. They're commonly prescribed during rehabilitation for ACL Reconstruction, Meniscus Repair, and Total Knee Replacement. Below is how to perform Heel Slides with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

KneeBeginnerTowel3 × 15

Benefits of the Heel Slides

  • Strengthens and activates the quadriceps and hamstrings
  • Improves mobility
  • Improves flexibility
  • Supports recovery and rehab for ACL Reconstruction, Meniscus Repair, and Total Knee Replacement
  • Can be done with simple equipment (towel)
  • Performed supine, so it's easy to set up

How to do the Heel Slides

  1. Lie on your back with both legs straight
  2. Slowly slide your heel toward your buttock, bending the knee
  3. Go only as far as comfortable — don't force it
  4. Hold the bent position for 2 seconds
  5. Slowly slide back to starting position

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 3 sets of 15 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Use a towel under your heel to reduce friction
  • Track your ROM weekly
  • Ice after if you experience swelling

Muscles worked

Quadriceps, Hamstrings

When to be cautious

  • Acute post-surgical swelling beyond normal limits

Who should do the Heel Slides?

Heel Slides are often included in programs for people recovering from ACL Reconstruction, Meniscus Repair, and Total Knee Replacement, and for anyone wanting to strengthen the knee. They're rated beginner.

Heel Slides — FAQ

What muscles do Heel Slides work?
Heel Slides primarily target the quadriceps and hamstrings.
How many sets and reps of Heel Slides should I do?
A common starting point is 3 sets of 15 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Are Heel Slides good for ACL Reconstruction?
Yes — Heel Slides are commonly used in rehab for ACL Reconstruction and Meniscus Repair. Confirm with your clinician before starting, especially if you have pain.
Do I need equipment for Heel Slides?
You'll need: towel.
When should I avoid Heel Slides?
Take care or skip them if you have: acute post-surgical swelling beyond normal limits. When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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Related Knee exercises

Quad SetsStraight Leg RaiseStraight Leg Raise with Ankle WeightWall Slides (Knee Flexion)Wall SitsMini Squats (45°)

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