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Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D

उत्थित हस्त पादांगुष्ठासन D

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D — the hand-free version, holding the extended leg up without grip.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

4

Avoid If

2
  • Hip flexor strain
  • Balance disorders

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Locking the knees — keep a micro-bend or engage the quadriceps
Collapsing the arches of the feet — distribute weight evenly
Holding the breath or breathing shallowly
Hunching the shoulders toward the ears
Leaning weight to one side — keep both feet equally grounded
Looking around the room — keep the gaze fixed

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 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
  • 6Fix the gaze on a steady point (drishti) for balance

Pose Details

Helps With

strengthbalance

Pose Type

balance

Body Focus

lower bodycore

Focus Areas

strengthbalance

Yoga Styles

ashtanga

When to Practice

peak pose

Position

standing

Target Areas

AdductorsQuadsAbs

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D — the hand-free version, holding the extended leg up without grip.

How to Practice

1

1. Tadasana.

2

2. Bend right knee toward chest.

3

3. Hold right big toe with right hand.

4

4. Extend right leg forward — straight.

5

5. Release the hand — hold leg up without support.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D

What is Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D?

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D — the hand-free version, holding the extended leg up without grip.

What are the benefits of Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D?

Tests hip flexor strength. Pure balance challenge. Ashtanga Primary Series. No grip assistance.

Who should avoid Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D?

Avoid this pose if you have: Hip flexor strain, Balance disorders.

How many steps are in Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D?

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D is practiced in 10 steps. Tadasana.

Is Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D suitable for beginners?

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D is an intermediate-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.

What conditions does Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D help with?

Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D is therapeutic for: strength, balance.

What poses should I do before Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D?

Prepare with: Tadasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Standing Forward Bend. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana D with other poses