Brettzel - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Brettzel

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Brettzel.

EasyCoreObliques

About this exercise

The Brettzel is a lying thoracic rotation and hip stretch that simultaneously opens the hip flexors, hamstrings, and thoracic spine. Developed as part of the Functional Movement Screen system, it is one of the most comprehensive single-position mobility drills available.

How to Perform

  • Lie on your side with your hips bent at roughly 90 degrees and knees stacked
  • Reach your bottom hand behind you and grasp the top knee, pulling it gently toward the floor in front of you
  • Extend your top arm overhead along the floor to create a T-shape with your torso
  • Rotate your upper body away from your knees, trying to bring your top shoulder to the floor behind you
  • Breathe deeply and hold the stretched position for the desired duration, letting gravity deepen the rotation
  • Return to the start, switch sides, and repeat

Muscle Activation

Primary
CoreObliques
Secondary
QuadricepsHamstringsLower back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Brettzel

The Brettzel is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.