Ariticle
 

Utthita Hasta Padangustasana

Step by Step

From Tadasana, bring your left knee toward your belly.

Reach your left arm inside the thigh, cross it over the front ankle, and hold the outside of your left foot. If your hamstrings are tight, hold a strap looped around the left sole.

Firm the front thigh muscles of the standing leg, and press the outer thigh inward.

Inhale and extend the left leg forward. Straighten the knee as much as possible. If you're steady, swing the leg out to the side. Breathe steadily; breathing takes concentration, but it helps you balance.

Hold for 30 seconds, then swing the leg back to center with an inhale, and lower the foot to the floor with an exhale. Repeat on the other side for the same length of time.

 
Anatomical Focus
Upper back
 
Therapeutic Applications
Osteoporosis
 
Benefits
Strengthens the legs and ankles
Stretches the backs of the legs
Improves sense of balance
 
Contraindications and Cautions
Ankle or low back injuries
 
Preparatory Poses
Supta Padangusthasana
Supta Virasana
Uttanasana
 
Follow-Up Poses
Uttanasana
Adho Mukha Svanasana
Bhujangasana