Foldable Leg Stretching Device for Split Exercises

The problem

Stretching for splits at home often relies on slippery floors or improvised supports, making it difficult to control how far the legs extend. Without a guided track, the feet can slip sideways, and maintaining balance while leaning forward puts strain on the lower back. Users also lack a reliable way to hold one leg stationary while gradually moving the other, which leads to uneven stretching. Furthermore, dedicated stretching machines tend to be large, single-purpose frames that take up permanent floor space in a room.

The solution

1. A base (1) consists of a first half support plate (1-1) and a second half support plate (1-2) joined by a hinge so they lock either perfectly flat or at a right angle.
2. A rectangular chute (4) is formed in the middle of the base, divided into a first half chute (4-1) and a second half chute (4-2) to match the folding plates.
3. Two slide bars (6) run parallel to the length of the chute, also divided into docking halves.
4. A first pedal (2) and a second pedal (5) are installed inside the chute, each with a slide opening (10) in the middle or lower part that fits over the slide bars.
5. An adjustable plate (7) sits above each pedal, featuring a shoe-pad-shaped groove (7-1) and fastening buckles (8) on both sides to secure the foot. These plates pivot between a position parallel to the chute and a vertical position, held by a locking device (15).
6. Multiple pin holes (13) are evenly distributed along each slide bar, accepting a latch (14) to stop a pedal from sliding. Snubber elastic parts (9) are placed between the front end of the first pedal and the rear end of the second pedal.
7. Armrest frames (3) mount on both sides of the base, using telescoping handrail bars (11) connected by an arch handrail (12) when flat, or forming an L-shape to connect the upright and flat halves when folded.

Who it is for

• Fitness equipment brands looking to add a compact, guided flexibility tool to their home-gym catalog without requiring heavy steel frames.
• Dance and martial arts suppliers whose customers need a controlled method to practice splits safely between studio sessions.
• Yoga and Pilates studios seeking a stable stretching station that members can use independently during warm-ups or cool-downs.
• Online retail sellers targeting the home-fitness market who need a product that ships flat and occupies minimal storage space.

How it works

The main parts

Operating steps

1. Unfold the base - lay the first and second half support plates flat to form a single board, or lock the first half upright at a right angle for standing-supported stretches.
2. Secure the feet - place each foot into the shoe-pad-shaped groove on the adjustable plates and fasten them using the buckles on both sides. Adjust the plates to face parallel to the chute or vertically, depending on the desired posture.
3. Set the anchor - insert a latch into one of the pin holes on the slide bar to lock the first pedal in a fixed position.
4. Stretch - push against the second pedal, letting it slide along the bars away from the anchored pedal. The snubber elastic parts provide resistance and cushioning. Hold the arch handrail for balance.
5. Adjust and release - move the latch to different pin holes to change the starting distance, or unlock the pedal to return to the resting position.

Applications

Home flexibility training

Users practicing splits in living rooms or bedrooms need equipment that does not dominate the space. The foldable base allows the device to be stored upright or flat under a bed after use. The guided slide bars prevent feet from slipping on hardwood or carpeted floors.

Dance studio warm-ups

Dancers require consistent, measurable stretching before rehearsals. By using the pin holes and latches, instructors can set specific distances for students to reach gradually. The armrest frames give dancers a stable grip while leaning into the stretch.

Martial arts conditioning

Martial artists working on high kicks benefit from controlled lateral leg extension. The ability to lock the base into an L-shape provides a backrest or support for upright stretching postures. Fastening buckles keep the feet firmly planted during intense holds.

Physical therapy clinics

Therapists guiding patients through lower-body mobility routines need predictable movement paths. The chute restricts the pedals to a straight line, preventing unwanted rotation. The height-adjustable armrests accommodate patients of different sizes.

Yoga and gymnastics centers

Gymnasts and yoga practitioners use split stretches daily to maintain range of motion. The shoe-pad-shaped grooves align the feet naturally, reducing ankle strain. The snubber elastic parts soften the push, allowing for slow, steady extension.

Where it is less suitable

• Heavy commercial gym weight areas - this is a bodyweight flexibility tool, not designed to bear external loaded weights.
• Cardiovascular workouts - the device is strictly for static stretching and holds, not dynamic aerobic exercise.
• Outdoor use - the pin holes, slide bars and hinges are intended for indoor environments where moisture and debris are controlled.