MUSCLES ENGAGED Hamstrings The hamstrings play a crucial role in many daily activities, such as, running, jumping, walking and cycling. Strengthening your hamstring muscles help to protect your knees from injury by absorbing the stress placed on the knee. Weak hamstrings can lead to knee injury. Abdominals The abdominal muscles (abs) provide movement and support to your core area. The deeper and closer to the spine the particular abdominal muscle is, the more effect over body posture it will have, and this often contributes significantly to a healthy back. Exercise Instructions Step 1 Start in a standing position with your feet shoulder width apart and your shoulders pulled back. Step 2 Slowly bend forward keeping your lower back flat and emphasizing the stretch of your hamstrings as you walk out into a push-up position. Step 3 Once you are in a push-up position, lower your hips to the floor and lift your chin up towards the ceiling and stretch your abdominal muscles.