This exercise is an excellent way to increase hip disassociation and more specifically hamstring flexibility. Foam rolling and/or myofascial compression therapy prior to stretching may further enhance range of motion. This exercise can be used with runners and clients struggling with tendonitis, IT band issues and patellofemoral pain. It is also helpful in eliminating asymmetry that appears on the active straight leg raise on the FMS.
This exercise can be used as part of a mobility workout, warm-up, regeneration day or at the end of a workout. Remember that maximally dorsiflexing the foot will increase dural tension and place more stretch across the back of the knee. So, relaxing the foot (or placing the rope more along the mid foot) will reduce this tension and allow for a more concentrated stretch in the hamstring. For clients with a history of sciatica, I would suggest avoiding the stretch with the foot in full dorsiflexion as a general precaution.