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Urdhva Prasarita Padasana

ऊर्ध्व प्रसारित पादासन

Urdhva Prasarita Padasana is a supine pose that strengthens the core muscles and hip flexors. It improves abdominal strength and stability.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

4
  • Lower back pain
  • Sciatica
  • Pregnancy
  • Recent abdominal surgery

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

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

5 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

Pose Details

Helps With

strengthposture correctiondigestive problemsweight loss

Pose Type

core strengthener

Body Focus

corelower body

Focus Areas

strengthbreathingendurance

Best For

beginners

Yoga Styles

iyengarhatha

When to Practice

warm upcool down

Position

supine

Modify If You Have

back pain

Keep knees bent, or lower legs only partially, using hands for support if needed.

Target Areas

AbsAdductorsQuads

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Urdhva Prasarita Padasana is a supine pose that strengthens the core muscles and hip flexors. It improves abdominal strength and stability.

How to Practice

1

1. Lie supine with legs extended and arms alongside your body.

2

2. Inhale and lift both legs together to a 30-degree angle, keeping them straight.

3

3. Engage the abdominal muscles and press the lower back into the floor.

4

4. Exhale and lift the legs a little higher, to a 60-degree angle.

5

5. Keep the neck straight and the chin slightly tucked towards the chest.

3 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Urdhva Prasarita Padasana

What is Urdhva Prasarita Padasana?

Urdhva Prasarita Padasana is a supine pose that strengthens the core muscles and hip flexors. It improves abdominal strength and stability.

What are the benefits of Urdhva Prasarita Padasana?

Strengthens core muscles. Strengthens hip flexors. Improves abdominal strength. Improves stability. Tones abdominal organs.

Who should avoid Urdhva Prasarita Padasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: Lower back pain, Sciatica, Pregnancy, Recent abdominal surgery.

How many steps are in Urdhva Prasarita Padasana?

Urdhva Prasarita Padasana is practiced in 8 steps. Lie supine with legs extended and arms alongside your body.

Is Urdhva Prasarita Padasana suitable for beginners?

Yes, Urdhva Prasarita Padasana is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What conditions does Urdhva Prasarita Padasana help with?

Urdhva Prasarita Padasana is therapeutic for: strength, posture correction, digestive problems, weight loss.

What poses should I do before Urdhva Prasarita Padasana?

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

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