What should be the condition of the knees during the butterfly stretch?

The butterfly stretch is designed to enhance flexibility in the hips and groin area. For the stretch to be effective, the knees should ideally be flat on the floor if possible. This position allows for a deeper stretch of the inner thighs as the hips are opened up. Having the knees flat promotes proper alignment and encourages the targeted muscles to relax, facilitating a more effective stretch.

If the knees were elevated above the waist, crossed over each other, or extended straight out, it would limit the stretch in the groin and may lead to improper technique or discomfort. Maintaining the knees as close to the ground as possible supports an optimal stretch and contributes to overall flexibility improvements in the hip area.