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Triangle Pose Hand on Hip

Trikonasana with Upper Hand on Hip · त्रिकोणासन ऊपरी हाथ कूल्हे पर

Also known as: Classic Triangle Variation

TriThree·KonaAngle·AsanaPose

Triangle Pose Hand on Hip, also called Classic Triangle Variation is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Trikonasana with Upper Hand on Hip translates word-for-word as: 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, strengthen the quadriceps and engage the core. Stretches spine and hamstrings. Improves balance. It is particularly valued for building full-body strength and developing greater flexibility. Suitable for beginners and regular practitioners alike, it is an excellent warm-up, particularly beneficial for beginners and desk workers. A block and wall can be used to make the posture more accessible and support correct alignment. Practitioners with low blood pressure and migraine should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

6

Avoid If

4
  • Low Blood Pressure

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

    Rise slowly from seated or lying positions, pause in a mid-level shape before fully standing, and use a wall for support.

  • Headache / Migraine

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

    Keep effort minimal, breathe slowly, and skip any vigorous transitions.

  • Diarrhea

    Twisting and strong abdominal compression stimulate intestinal peristalsis, which can worsen diarrhoea.

    Rest and allow the digestive system to recover; practise only very gentle, restorative postures.

Props That Can Help

Optional supports — use when helpful, not required

Yoga Block

Rest the lower hand on a block instead of the floor to maintain a long spine and open chest, especially helpful when flexibility is still developing.

Wall

Standing with the back against the wall provides proprioceptive feedback, helping you understand what true alignment feels like in the pose.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Bending the front knee — keep the front leg straight
Collapsing the torso forward — keep the chest open to the side
Resting heavily on the bottom hand — it should be light
Shortening the underside of the waist — maintain equal length on both sides
Twisting the hips forward — keep the pelvis in a neutral plane

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Step the feet 3.5 to 4 feet apart
  • 2Turn the front foot out 90 degrees, back foot in slightly
  • 3Extend the torso laterally over the front leg — not forward
  • 4Keep the body in one plane — as if between two panes of glass
  • 5Reach the top arm straight up, stacking the shoulders
  • 6Turn the gaze toward the top hand if the neck allows

Pose Details

Helps With

strengthflexibilityposture correctiondigestive problemsweight loss

Pose Type

lateral bendhip opener

Body Focus

lower bodyspinehipscore

Focus Areas

flexibilitystrengthbalance

Best For

beginnersdesk workersseniors

Yoga Styles

iyengarhatha

When to Practice

warm upmorningquick practice

Position

standing

Modify If You Have

neck pain

Keep head in line with spine, look forward or down.

back pain

Place lower hand on shin or block, avoid deep bend, keep spine long.

Target Areas

HamstringsQuadsAbsObliques

Practice Flow

How to Practice

1

1. Stand with your feet 3-4 feet apart, turning your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot slightly inward.

2

2. Align the center of your right heel with the arch of your left foot.

3

3. Inhale, lengthen your spine, and lift your chest.

4

4. Exhale, hinge at your right hip, reaching your right hand towards your right shin or ankle.

5

5. Place your left hand on your left hip, drawing the shoulder back.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Trikonasana with Upper Hand on Hip

What is Triangle Pose Hand on Hip?

Triangle Pose Hand on Hip, also called Classic Triangle Variation is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Trikonasana with Upper Hand on Hip translates word-for-word as: 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, strengthen the quadriceps and engage the core. Stretches spine and hamstrings. Improves balance. It is particularly valued for building full-body strength and developing greater flexibility. Suitable for beginners and regular practitioners alike, it is an excellent warm-up, particularly beneficial for beginners and desk workers. A block and wall can be used to make the posture more accessible and support correct alignment. Practitioners with low blood pressure and migraine should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.

What are the benefits of Triangle Pose Hand on Hip?

Strengthens legs and core. Stretches spine and hamstrings. Improves balance. Opens chest and shoulders. Stimulates abdominal organs. Relieves stress.

Who should avoid Triangle Pose Hand on Hip?

Avoid this pose if you have: Low blood pressure, Headaches, Diarrhea, Neck problems (avoid looking up).

How many steps are in Triangle Pose Hand on Hip?

Triangle Pose Hand on Hip is practiced in 10 steps. Stand with your feet 3-4 feet apart, turning your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot slightly inward.

Is Triangle Pose Hand on Hip suitable for beginners?

Yes, Triangle Pose Hand on Hip is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Triangle Pose Hand on Hip?

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

What conditions does Triangle Pose Hand on Hip help with?

Triangle Pose Hand on Hip is therapeutic for: strength, flexibility, posture correction, digestive problems, weight loss.

What poses should I do before Triangle Pose Hand on Hip?

Prepare with: Trikonasana, Tadasana, Shoulder Rolls, Neck Rolls, Tadasana Variation: Heel Raises. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Trikonasana with Upper Hand on Hip with other poses