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Supta Hasta Padangusthasana

सुप्त हस्त पादांगुष्ठासन

Supta Hasta Padangusthasana is a supine hamstring stretch holding the big toe — accessible and therapeutic.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

2
  • Hamstring tears (acute)
  • Diarrhea

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Lifting the shoulders toward the ears — keep them relaxed
Flattening the natural curve of the lower back
Tensing the facial muscles and jaw
Holding the breath
Forcing the legs into position rather than using props for support
Rounding the spine instead of hinging from the hips

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Press the back of the head gently into the floor
  • 2Keep the lower back in its natural curve
  • 3Relax the shoulders away from the ears
  • 4Soften the facial muscles and jaw
  • 5Breathe deeply into the belly
  • 6Hinge from the hips, leading with the chest

Pose Details

Helps With

sciaticaflexibilityback painhamstring injury

Pose Type

forward bend

Body Focus

lower body

Focus Areas

flexibility

Best For

beginnersseniorsathletesrunners

Yoga Styles

iyengarhatharestorative

When to Practice

cool downrestorative

Position

supine

Modify If You Have

hamstring injury

Keep the leg slightly bent. Use a strap.

Target Areas

HamstringsAdductors

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Supta Hasta Padangusthasana is a supine hamstring stretch holding the big toe — accessible and therapeutic.

How to Practice

1

1. Lie on the back.

2

2. Left leg straight on the floor.

3

3. Bend right knee toward chest.

4

4. Hold right big toe with right hand (or use strap).

5

5. Slowly straighten right leg — toward ceiling.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Supta Hasta Padangusthasana

What is Supta Hasta Padangusthasana?

Supta Hasta Padangusthasana is a supine hamstring stretch holding the big toe — accessible and therapeutic.

What are the benefits of Supta Hasta Padangusthasana?

Safe hamstring stretch. No back strain (supine). Therapeutic for sciatica. Accessible for all levels. Great for runners.

Who should avoid Supta Hasta Padangusthasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: Hamstring tears (acute), Diarrhea.

How many steps are in Supta Hasta Padangusthasana?

Supta Hasta Padangusthasana is practiced in 10 steps. Lie on the back.

Is Supta Hasta Padangusthasana suitable for beginners?

Yes, Supta Hasta Padangusthasana is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Supta Hasta Padangusthasana?

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

What conditions does Supta Hasta Padangusthasana help with?

Supta Hasta Padangusthasana is therapeutic for: sciatica, flexibility, back pain, hamstring injury.

What poses should I do before Supta Hasta Padangusthasana?

Prepare with: Supta Tadasana, Apanasana. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Supta Hasta Padangusthasana with other poses