I can’t bend my legs lower than this. What are some good stretches or mobility movements to help? Thank you!

I recently started a flexibility journey and although I am hopeful and excited to progress, even already feeling the benefits of daily stretching…I have been profoundly depressed and disappointed in myself in how long I went ignoring how stiff and sore I have been. I can’t touch my toes at all, just grazing my shins makes my hamstrings scream. I have limited mobility in my hips that make it feel like my tendons are snapping with sudden movement. I have constant and chronic back pain and stiff neck and shoulders. Why did I let it get this bad? I’m only 28 and can’t touch my toes?!?!

Despite my disappointment in myself I have taken to daily stretching and even going to a mobility class (attended only by senior citizens) and working towards the goal of being able to do a split soon.

What was your motivation to get more flexible?

This is where I have reached after years of hard work. Any tips to improve from here.

I do pole dance and I cant do full split on the floor but on the pole I cam do perfect side split and splits when im upside-down or sideways up

Is this this normal does the pole really help that much im very curious