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🦵 Wall Slides (Knee Flexion)

The Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) is a beginner knee exercise that targets the hamstrings and calves. Use gravity and the wall to gently increase knee flexion range of motion. It's commonly prescribed during rehabilitation for ACL Reconstruction and Total Knee Replacement. Below is how to perform the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

KneeBeginnerWall3 × 12

Benefits of the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion)

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

How to do the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion)

  1. Lie on your back perpendicular to a wall
  2. Place both feet flat on the wall, hips and knees bent ~90°
  3. Let your foot slowly slide down the wall, bending your knee further
  4. Hold the deepest comfortable position for 5 seconds
  5. Slide your foot back up the wall

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 3 sets of 12 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Use gravity, don't force the bend
  • Progress range gradually

Muscles worked

Hamstrings, Calves

When to be cautious

  • Acute meniscus pain

Who should do the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion)?

The Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) is often included in programs for people recovering from ACL Reconstruction and Total Knee Replacement, and for anyone wanting to strengthen the knee. It's rated beginner.

Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) — FAQ

What muscles does the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) work?
The Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) primarily targets the hamstrings and calves.
How many sets and reps of the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) should I do?
A common starting point is 3 sets of 12 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Is the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) good for ACL Reconstruction?
Yes — the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion) is commonly used in rehab for ACL Reconstruction and Total Knee Replacement. Confirm with your clinician before starting, especially if you have pain.
Do I need equipment for the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion)?
You'll need: wall.
When should I avoid the Wall Slides (Knee Flexion)?
Take care or skip it if you have: acute meniscus pain. When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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