Pose Directory > STANDING

Reverse Plank Pose Variation

Purvothanasana

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STEPS

Reverse Plank Pose Variation is a one-legged version of Reverse Plank Pose. Both Reverse Plank Pose and Reverse Plank Pose Variation may be used as a counter pose to forward seated bend or plank pose. This Reverse plank variation is an all over body stretch, that strengthens and tones from head to toe. Reverse Plank Pose Variation is appropriate for all levels of practice.

Begin in staff pose (Danadasana) with hands behind the hips and fingers pointing forward. The hands should be placed several inches behind the hips. The hands should be shoulder width apart. Externally rotate the shoulder blades, pointing fingertips back towards hips and press knuckles into the ground. Draw the shoulder blades into the back. Inhale and lift the hips. Press the toes, balls of feet and sole into the ground. When stable extend the right leg skyward, eye gaze towards the toes. To exit the pose, lower the right leg. On the exhale slowly lower the hips to the ground, returning to staff pose. Repeat other side.

TEACHER QUEUES

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VISUALIZATION COMMENTS

To keep the hips square, imagine your hip bones are headlights shining skyward. As you raise one leg, try to keep the left headlight in one spot.

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TECHNICAL COMMENTS

In the final position, the head, torso, hips and grounded leg are in one line. Do not squeeze the buttocks. Instead focus on pressing the foot soles towards the floor. Avoid collapsing into the shoulders, keep neck long and back strong. When extending reach up through the ball of the foot.

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BENEFIT COMMENTS
  • Strengthens arms, chest and legs
  • Stretches shoulders, chest, wrists and ankles
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WATCH OUT FOR
  • Collapsing wrists and shoulders (walk back into reverse table top)
  • Slumping hips (press balls of feet onto blanket or rolled up mat)
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CONTRAINDICATIONS
  • Wrist injury
  • Neck and pain issues
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MODIFICATIONS
  • Using a chair (sit on edge of chair, with hands clasping seat)
  • Practice with one leg bent, the other extended
  • Place blanket or rolled up mat under feet
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VARIATIONS
  • Cross extended leg over thigh
  • Open extended leg out to side
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YOGA COUNTER POSES
  • Seated forward bend (Paschimothanasana)
  • Downward facing dog (Purvothanasana)

Written By: Brenda Hamlet

Brenda Hamlet is a RYT 200 yoga teacher and journalist. More information about Brenda can be found at https://www.facebook.com/brendahamletyoga

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