StandingIntermediate

Extended Side Angle

Utthita Parsvakonasana

Woman demonstrating Extended Side Angle (Utthita Parsvakonasana)
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About This Pose

Extended Side Angle (Utthita Parsvakonasana) is a strong, expansive standing pose that lengthens the entire side body from the back heel to the top hand. The front knee bends to 90 degrees while the back leg stays straight and powerful; the torso leans over the front thigh and the bottom hand reaches to a block or the floor as the top arm sweeps overhead. The pose builds heat and stamina, opens the hips and chest, and stretches the waist, groin, and shoulders. It flows naturally out of Warrior II and anchors many standing sequences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Begin in Warrior II with the right knee bent

  2. 2

    Lower the right forearm to the right thigh

  3. 3

    Or reach the right hand to a block or the floor

  4. 4

    Place the hand outside the right foot

  5. 5

    Extend the left arm over the ear

  6. 6

    Create one line from the back heel to the fingertips

  7. 7

    Roll the chest open toward the ceiling

  8. 8

    Press the back foot firmly down

  9. 9

    Gaze up under the top arm

  10. 10

    Hold 5 to 8 breaths, then switch sides

Alignment Cues

  • Front knee stacked over the ankle
  • Back leg straight, outer edge grounded
  • One long line from heel to top hand
  • Chest rotating open, not collapsing down
  • Bottom hand light, core supporting the torso

Benefits

  • Strengthens the legs, knees, and ankles
  • Opens the hips, groin, and chest
  • Lengthens the entire side body
  • Builds stamina and heat
  • Stretches the shoulders and waist
  • Improves stability

Modifications

  • Rest the forearm on the thigh
  • Use a block under the bottom hand
  • Keep the gaze forward for the neck

Variations

  • Bind the top arm under the front thigh
  • Enter from Warrior II
  • Transition to Half Moon

Cautions & Contraindications

Cautions

  • Keep the front knee over the ankle
  • Do not dump weight into the bottom hand
  • Keep the back leg strong and straight

Avoid this pose if you have:

  • Knee injury
  • Neck problems (limit head turn)
  • High or low blood pressure