Spanish Phrase
Mantén cada estiramiento durante 20-30 segundos.
Meaning
Hold each stretch for a period of twenty to thirty seconds. The sentence is a typical instruction given during a workout, yoga session, or physiotherapy routine.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are guiding someone through a stretching routine, whether in a gym class, a personal‑training video, or a rehabilitation setting. It works well in both formal instruction and casual conversation with a workout partner.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Manténcadaestiramientodurante20-30segundos.
Imperative (tú) of -ar verbs
For regular -ar verbs, drop the -ar and add -a; 'mantener' is irregular, so the stem changes to 'mantén'.
Stem‑change in 'mantener'
The verb 'mantener' changes e→ie in the present, but the imperative keeps the stressed vowel: mantén.
Quantifier 'cada'
Use 'cada' before a singular noun to mean 'each' or 'every'.
Preposition 'durante'
Use 'durante' to indicate the length of time something lasts.
Time range notation
When giving a range, write the numbers with a hyphen (20‑30) and follow with the unit (segundos).
🗨In Conversation
Vamos a trabajar la flexibilidad de la espalda. Mantén cada estiramiento durante 20-30 segundos.
We're going to work on back flexibility. Keep each stretch for 20‑30 seconds.
¡Entendido! ¿Cuántas repeticiones hago?
Got it! How many repetitions should I do?
✕Common Mistakes
Mantener cada estiramiento durante 20-30 segundos.
The infinitive 'mantener' cannot be used as a command; you need the imperative form 'mantén'.
Mantén cada estiramiento por 20-30 segundos.
While 'por' is acceptable, using 'durante' is more precise for a fixed time span.
Mantén cada estiramiento durante veinte a treinta segundos.
When writing a range, the hyphen (20‑30) is the standard format; spelling out the range can sound less natural in quick instructions.
↔Alternatives
Sostén cada estiramiento entre 20 y 30 segundos.
Hold each stretch between 20 and 30 seconds.
Mantén cada posición de estiramiento por 20‑30 segundos.
Maintain each stretching position for 20‑30 seconds.
Mantén cada estiramiento durante veinte a treinta segundos.
Keep each stretch for twenty to thirty seconds.
Cultural Tip
In Spanish‑speaking fitness circles, the verb 'mantener' is the go‑to word for ‘hold’ a pose or stretch. Native speakers often pair it with 'durante' or 'por' to indicate duration, but 'durante' sounds slightly more formal and is preferred in written instructions.