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Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead

उत्थित त्रिकोणासन वेरिएशन

Utthita Trikonasana Variation stretches and strengthens the legs, spine, and obliques. The arm overhead variation further stretches the side body and improves shoulder flexibility.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

4
  • Low blood pressure
  • Headaches
  • Heart problems
  • Neck problems

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

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

5 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

Pose Details

Helps With

flexibilitystrengthanxietydigestive problemsposture correction

Pose Type

lateral bend

Body Focus

lower bodycoreshoulders

Focus Areas

flexibilitystrengthbalancebreathing

Yoga Styles

iyengar

When to Practice

peak pose

Position

standing

Modify If You Have

low blood pressure

Come up slowly, don't go too deep if feeling dizzy, keep head at heart level.

migraine

Keep head in neutral position, avoid looking up.

heart problems

Keep top arm on hip or at chest, avoid overstretching.

neck pain

Keep head in neutral position, looking forward or down.

Target Areas

HamstringsObliquesDeltoidsAbs

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Utthita Trikonasana Variation stretches and strengthens the legs, spine, and obliques. The arm overhead variation further stretches the side body and improves shoulder flexibility.

How to Practice

1

1. Stand in Tadasana, feet together, arms at your sides.

2

2. Inhale and step your feet approximately 3.5-4 feet apart.

3

3. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot slightly inward.

4

4. Exhale and hinge from your right hip, placing your right hand on your right ankle or the floor outside your right foot.

5

5. Extend your left arm straight up towards the ceiling, fingers pointing upwards.

7 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead

What is Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead?

Utthita Trikonasana Variation stretches and strengthens the legs, spine, and obliques. The arm overhead variation further stretches the side body and improves shoulder flexibility.

What are the benefits of Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead?

Stretches and strengthens the legs, spine, and obliques. Improves balance and stability. Stimulates the abdominal organs. Relieves stress and anxiety. Increases flexibility in the hips and spine.

Who should avoid Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead?

Avoid this pose if you have: Low blood pressure, Headaches, Heart problems, Neck problems.

How many steps are in Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead?

Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead is practiced in 12 steps. Stand in Tadasana, feet together, arms at your sides.

Is Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead suitable for beginners?

Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead is an intermediate-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.

What conditions does Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead help with?

Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead is therapeutic for: flexibility, strength, anxiety, digestive problems, posture correction.

What poses should I do before Utthita Trikonasana Variation with arm overhead?

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

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