ProneBeginner

Prone Arm Reach

Salamba Bhujangasana Prep

Yoga practitioner lying prone with arms extended forward.
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About This Pose

Prone Arm Reach is a gentle backbend preparation performed lying face-down with one or both arms extended forward. This pose activates the back muscles, shoulders, and glutes while keeping the intensity low. It's an excellent way to warm up the posterior chain before progressing to more demanding prone backbends like Cobra or Locust pose.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Lie face down on mat

  2. 2

    Extend arms forward on floor

  3. 3

    Rest forehead on mat

  4. 4

    Engage back muscles gently

  5. 5

    Reach through fingertips

  6. 6

    Breathe into back body

Alignment Cues

  • Lengthen spine from tailbone to crown
  • Relax neck completely
  • Keep shoulders away from ears
  • Ground pelvis into mat

Benefits

  • Warms up back muscles
  • Activates posterior chain
  • Prepares for backbends
  • Gentle shoulder engagement
  • Builds body awareness
  • Safe spinal extension

Modifications

  • Place blanket under chest
  • Arms by sides

Variations

  • With slight lift
  • Alternating arm reach

Cautions & Contraindications

Cautions

  • Avoid neck strain
  • Keep pelvis grounded

Avoid this pose if you have:

  • Shoulder injury
  • Lower back pain

Use This Pose

Quick Facts

Primary Focus

spine

Secondary Focus

shoulders

Suggested Hold

30 seconds

Tags

proneback bodyshouldersbeginner

Equipment

yoga mat