Yogidex

Teacher Training Companion

HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
HomePosesPhilosophyAnatomyPracticeGlossary
All Poses

Virabhadrasana I

Warrior I

Warrior I
beginnerStanding

Muscle Groups

QuadricepsGlutesHip flexorsShouldersCore

A powerful standing pose with a lunging front leg and arms reaching overhead, named after the fierce warrior Virabhadra.

Alignment Cues

  • 1.Front knee bends to 90 degrees over the ankle
  • 2.Square the hips toward the front of the mat
  • 3.Back foot at 45-degree angle
  • 4.Reach arms overhead, palms facing each other
  • 5.Draw the front ribs in and lengthen the tailbone

Benefits

  • +Strengthens legs and arms
  • +Opens hips and chest
  • +Improves balance and stability
  • +Builds stamina

Muscle Groups

QuadricepsGlutesHip flexorsShouldersCore

Contraindications

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart problems
  • Knee injury
  • Shoulder injury