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Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead

Parivrtta Trikonasana Variation Arm Overhead · परिवृत्त त्रिकोणासन विविध हाथ ऊपर

Also known as: Extended Twisted Triangle

ParivrttaRevolved·TriThree·KonaAngle·AsanaPose

Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead, also called Extended Twisted Triangle is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Parivrtta Trikonasana Variation Arm Overhead translates word-for-word as: Parivrtta (Revolved) · Tri (Three) · Kona (Angle) · Asana (Pose). From a standing position, the body roots firmly through the feet while the spine extends upward. The posture works to lengthen the hamstrings, engage the obliques and open and strengthen the shoulders. Strengthens legs and core. Increases spinal mobility. It is particularly valued for developing greater flexibility and improving overall posture. Suitable for intermediate practitioners with foundational yoga experience, it is a meaningful addition to any practice, particularly beneficial for athletes and runners. A block can be used to make the posture more accessible and support correct alignment. Practitioners with low blood pressure and back pain should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

6

Avoid If

5
  • Low Blood Pressure

    Rising quickly from low positions can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting.

    Move slowly between positions, keep eyes open, and rest against a wall if dizziness arises.

  • Back Injury / Back Pain

    Spinal flexion, extension, or rotation under load can compress vertebral discs or strain the paraspinal muscles.

    Initiate the twist from the upper spine and ribs rather than forcing from the waist; keep both sitting bones grounded.

  • Neck Injury / Cervical Issues

    Looking up, bearing head weight, or unsupported neck rotation can compress cervical vertebrae and irritate nerves.

    Do not force the neck to turn further than the thoracic spine; let the gaze follow the rotation of the shoulders only.

  • Headache / Migraine

    Physical exertion, inversions, and strong breath work can intensify an existing headache or trigger a migraine.

    Avoid inversions and strong pranayama; rest in a supported, restorative posture with a cool cloth on the forehead.

Props That Can Help

Optional supports — use when helpful, not required

Yoga Block

Use a block to reduce the reach distance, support alignment, and make the posture accessible at your current level of flexibility.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Locking the knees — keep a micro-bend or engage the quadriceps
Collapsing the arches of the feet — distribute weight evenly
Holding the breath or breathing shallowly
Hunching the shoulders toward the ears
Leaning weight to one side — keep both feet equally grounded
Rounding the spine instead of hinging from the hips

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Ground firmly through all four corners of both feet
  • 2Engage the quadriceps by lifting the kneecaps
  • 3Lengthen the spine from the tailbone to the crown of the head
  • 4Draw the shoulder blades down and back
  • 5Maintain steady, even breathing throughout
  • 6Hinge from the hips, leading with the chest

Pose Details

Helps With

flexibilityposture correctionstrengthdigestive problemsanxiety

Pose Type

twiststandingforward bend

Body Focus

spinehamstringscore

Focus Areas

flexibilitybalancestrengthtwist

Best For

athletesrunnersteens

Yoga Styles

iyengarhathavinyasa

When to Practice

peak posemorning

Position

standing

Modify If You Have

hypertension

Place hands on blocks, keep head lifted, and avoid deep forward fold.

hamstring injury

Bend the front knee and use blocks for hand support.

shoulder injury

Keep the lower hand on the shin or a block, and the upper hand on the hip.

pregnancy

Take a wider stance, don't twist as deeply, and use a wall for support.

Target Areas

HamstringsUpper BackLower BackObliquesDeltoids

Practice Flow

How to Practice

1

1. Begin in Tadasana.

2

2. Inhale and step your feet wide apart, about 4 feet.

3

3. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and slightly turn your left foot in.

4

4. Exhale and twist your torso to the right, bringing your left hand to the outside of your right foot or ankle. If needed bend the right knee slightly.

5

5. Extend your right arm straight up towards the ceiling, palm facing forward.

7 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Parivrtta Trikonasana Variation Arm Overhead

What is Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead?

Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead, also called Extended Twisted Triangle is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Parivrtta Trikonasana Variation Arm Overhead translates word-for-word as: Parivrtta (Revolved) · Tri (Three) · Kona (Angle) · Asana (Pose). From a standing position, the body roots firmly through the feet while the spine extends upward. The posture works to lengthen the hamstrings, engage the obliques and open and strengthen the shoulders. Strengthens legs and core. Increases spinal mobility. It is particularly valued for developing greater flexibility and improving overall posture. Suitable for intermediate practitioners with foundational yoga experience, it is a meaningful addition to any practice, particularly beneficial for athletes and runners. A block can be used to make the posture more accessible and support correct alignment. Practitioners with low blood pressure and back pain should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.

What are the benefits of Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead?

Improves flexibility and balance. Strengthens legs and core. Increases spinal mobility. Stimulates digestion. Reduces stress. Improves posture.

Who should avoid Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead?

Avoid this pose if you have: Low blood pressure, Back pain, Neck pain, Headache, Diarrhea.

How many steps are in Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead?

Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead is practiced in 12 steps. Begin in Tadasana.

Is Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead suitable for beginners?

Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead is an intermediate-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.

What props are needed for Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead?

You may use: block. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.

What conditions does Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead help with?

Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead is therapeutic for: flexibility, posture correction, strength, digestive problems, anxiety.

What poses should I do before Revolved Triangle Arm Overhead?

Prepare with: Revolved Triangle Pose, Tadasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Standing Forward Bend. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Parivrtta Trikonasana Variation Arm Overhead with other poses