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Supta Padangusthasana II

सुप्त पादांगुष्ठासन II

Supta Padangusthasana II takes the raised leg out to the side, opening the inner thigh and groin while the opposite hip remains grounded. This lateral variation stretches the adductors and challenges pelvic stability. A strap and the weight of the opposite hand on the opposite thigh help maintain alignment. It is a key pose for developing hip flexibility needed for seated postures.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

3
  • Groin strain
  • Acute hip injury
  • Sacroiliac joint instability

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
Forcing the hips open beyond their current range
Rounding the spine instead of hinging from the hips

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

7 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
  • 6Allow the hip joints to open gradually — never force
  • 7Hinge from the hips, leading with the chest

Pose Details

Helps With

flexibilityhip injurysciaticaback painposture correction

Pose Type

forward bendhip opener

Body Focus

hipslower body

Focus Areas

flexibility

Best For

beginnersseniors

Yoga Styles

iyengar

When to Practice

cool down

Position

lying

Modify If You Have

hip injury

Support the leg with blocks, reduce range of motion, and keep the knee bent.

groin injury

Support the leg, reduce range, and keep the knee bent.

knee injury

Keep the knee bent and avoid locking it.

sciatica

Keep the knee bent, do not overstretch, and keep hips stable.

back pain

Keep the non-stretching leg bent, and support the outer hip with a sandbag.

Target Areas

Hamstrings

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Supta Padangusthasana II takes the raised leg out to the side, opening the inner thigh and groin while the opposite hip remains grounded. This lateral variation stretches the adductors and challenges pelvic stability. A strap and the weight of the opposite hand on the opposite thigh help maintain alignment. It is a key pose for developing hip flexibility needed for seated postures.

How to Practice

1

1. Lie on your back with feet hip-width apart and knees bent.

2

2. Take a belt and loop it around the sole of your right foot.

3

3. Hold the belt with both hands.

4

4. Slowly straighten your right leg towards the ceiling, trying to keep the knee as straight as possible.

5

5. Slowly move that leg out to the side, keeping the leg in line with the hip socket. The left hip should remain grounded.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Supta Padangusthasana II

What is Supta Padangusthasana II?

Supta Padangusthasana II takes the raised leg out to the side, opening the inner thigh and groin while the opposite hip remains grounded. This lateral variation stretches the adductors and challenges pelvic stability. A strap and the weight of the opposite hand on the opposite thigh help maintain alignment. It is a key pose for developing hip flexibility needed for seated postures.

What are the benefits of Supta Padangusthasana II?

Stretches the adductors and inner groin. Challenges and develops pelvic stability. Opens the hip joint laterally. Prepares for wide-legged seated postures. Therapeutic for tight inner thighs.

Who should avoid Supta Padangusthasana II?

Avoid this pose if you have: Groin strain, Acute hip injury, Sacroiliac joint instability.

How many steps are in Supta Padangusthasana II?

Supta Padangusthasana II is practiced in 10 steps. Lie on your back with feet hip-width apart and knees bent.

Is Supta Padangusthasana II suitable for beginners?

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

What props are needed for Supta Padangusthasana II?

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

What conditions does Supta Padangusthasana II help with?

Supta Padangusthasana II is therapeutic for: flexibility, hip injury, sciatica, back pain, posture correction.

What poses should I do before Supta Padangusthasana II?

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

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