If you're stretching consistently and strategically and still aren't seeing the improvement you want, consider one of these factors:

You need to be foam-rolling, too. If your tightness is caused by restricted fascia rather than muscle, stretching won't help—but foam rolling will. "Foam rolling can be done prior to activity, even on cold muscles, or post-activity to release inhibited muscles," says Leigh Heflin, program coordinator of the Harkness Center for Dance Injuries at New York University's Langone Medical Center. "Although it doesn't necessarily increase range of motion, it can allow more freedom in a muscle that was otherwise restricted."

You should see an expert. They can help you find imbalances and recommend stretches. Or, a massage therapist can work out areas that have become overly tight.

You should be focusing on strength. Flexibility can only do so much for a dancer. If you've worked on flexibility but aren't seeing the results in your extension, it could be because you haven't built enough strength. Work on strengthening your core, hip flexors and quadriceps as much as you stretch your hamstrings.

You're neglecting some muscles. Stretching some tight areas but not others can create imbalances in the body, says Heflin. If you're overstretching your hamstrings but neglecting the opposing muscle group, the quadriceps, the quads can become tight and overworked.

You're stretching in the wrong order. "There are 34 muscles across your hips—why would you start with the toughest hamstring muscle?" says Chris Frederick. Try stretching the small muscles in your hip and back first to increase your hamstrings' range of motion.

You need to create space in the joint. Try gently pulling the limb away from the socket before stretching to help you go further, says Frederick.