AdvancedstandingSamakonasana
समकोणासन
Samakonasana (Side Split) is a full straddle split requiring extreme adductor flexibility.
Anatomy Involved
Benefits
- Extreme inner thigh flexibility
- Opens groin completely
- Develops patience
- Full anatomical benefits — muscles, joints, organs →
Avoid If
- Groin injuries
- Hamstring injuries
- Hip injuries
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Teaching Cues
For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students
6 cues
Teaching Cues
For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students
- 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
- 6Allow the hip joints to open gradually — never force
Pose Details
Helps With
Pose Type
Body Focus
Focus Areas
Yoga Styles
When to Practice
Position
Modify If You Have
groin injury
Use blocks under hands, do not go full depth.
Target Areas
Practice Flow
About this Pose
Samakonasana (Side Split) is a full straddle split requiring extreme adductor flexibility.
How to Practice
1. From Tadasana, step feet wide.
2. Toes pointing forward.
3. Hands on hips or floor for support.
4. Slowly slide feet wider.
5. Hips descend toward the floor.
5 more steps remaining
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Samakonasana
What is Samakonasana?
Samakonasana (Side Split) is a full straddle split requiring extreme adductor flexibility.
What are the benefits of Samakonasana?
Extreme inner thigh flexibility. Opens groin completely. Develops patience.
Who should avoid Samakonasana?
Avoid this pose if you have: Groin injuries, Hamstring injuries, Hip injuries.
How many steps are in Samakonasana?
Samakonasana is practiced in 10 steps. From Tadasana, step feet wide.
Is Samakonasana suitable for beginners?
Samakonasana is an advanced-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.
What props are needed for Samakonasana?
You may use: block, blanket. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.
What conditions does Samakonasana help with?
Samakonasana is therapeutic for: flexibility.
What poses should I do before Samakonasana?
Prepare with: Tadasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Standing Forward Bend, Warrior I. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.
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Build Your Own Sequence
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