Adho Mukha DandasanaBeginnerprone

Adho Mukha Dandasana

अधो मुख दण्डासन

Adho Mukha Dandasana (Forearm Plank) is a plank on the forearms — easier on the wrists than full plank.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

4

Avoid If

2
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Elbow injuries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Compressing the lower back by lifting too high too fast
Shrugging the shoulders toward the ears
Clenching the gluteal muscles excessively
Turning the head sharply to one side
Holding the breath during the lift

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

5 cues
  • 1Press the pubic bone gently into the floor
  • 2Engage the legs by pressing the tops of the feet down
  • 3Lengthen the back of the neck — gaze slightly forward
  • 4Draw the shoulder blades toward the spine
  • 5Keep the gluteal muscles firm but not clenched

Pose Details

Helps With

strengthposture correction

Pose Type

core strengthener

Body Focus

coreupper body

Focus Areas

strengthendurance

Best For

beginnersathletes

Yoga Styles

vinyasapowerhatha

When to Practice

warm uppeak pose

Position

prone

Modify If You Have

shoulder injury

Keep knees down for half forearm plank.

Target Areas

AbsDeltoidsForearmQuads

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Adho Mukha Dandasana (Forearm Plank) is a plank on the forearms — easier on the wrists than full plank.

How to Practice

1

1. Start from table top.

2

2. Lower forearms to the floor — elbows under shoulders.

3

3. Forearms parallel, palms down.

4

4. Step feet back.

5

5. Body in a straight line — head to heels.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Adho Mukha Dandasana

What is Adho Mukha Dandasana?

Adho Mukha Dandasana (Forearm Plank) is a plank on the forearms — easier on the wrists than full plank.

What are the benefits of Adho Mukha Dandasana?

Core strength without wrist pressure. Shoulder stabilization. Alternative to Phalakasana. Prepares for forearm stand.

Who should avoid Adho Mukha Dandasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: Shoulder injuries, Elbow injuries.

How many steps are in Adho Mukha Dandasana?

Adho Mukha Dandasana is practiced in 10 steps. Start from table top.

Is Adho Mukha Dandasana suitable for beginners?

Yes, Adho Mukha Dandasana is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What conditions does Adho Mukha Dandasana help with?

Adho Mukha Dandasana is therapeutic for: strength, posture correction.

What poses should I do before Adho Mukha Dandasana?

Prepare with: Makarasana, Adho Mukha Virasana (Child's Pose). These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

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