Side splits and hip pain

[matrix]

Hi! I'm following the Flexibility Express program for 1 week so far. When i do the isometric 7 step squats i feel a lot of pain in my hips. But when i try to lean my trunk forward and push my hips back, i can't really squat very deep if any. The next problem is that i can't reach that very wide 7 step stance like Kurz's. How can i solve these problems and eventually reach the ground without any pain?

[Thomas Kurz]

Make sure you can pass the flexibility potential test for the side split. If not, then perhaps your hip joints are not up to it. If yes, then wait with 7-step squat until in the 5-step squat your hips will be well below your knees.