SeatedIntermediate

Seated Extended Leg Balance

Yoga practitioner balancing with extended leg.
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About This Pose

Seated Extended Leg Balance challenges core stability while stretching the hamstrings and hip flexors. By extending one leg while balancing on the sitting bones, this pose develops the core control needed for more advanced balancing postures. It's an excellent transition pose and builds both strength and flexibility simultaneously.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Sit with knees bent and feet flat on the floor

  2. 2

    Hold behind your right thigh and lean back slightly

  3. 3

    Lift the right foot off the floor

  4. 4

    Slowly extend the leg straight if possible

  5. 5

    Release the hands and reach arms forward for balance

  6. 6

    Hold for 5 breaths, then switch legs

  7. 7

    Keep the spine long throughout

Alignment Cues

  • Balance on sitting bones, not tailbone
  • Keep chest lifted and spine long
  • Engage the core to support the position
  • Point or flex foot actively

Benefits

  • Builds core stability and control
  • Stretches the hamstrings of the extended leg
  • Strengthens the hip flexors
  • Improves balance and body awareness
  • Prepares for advanced balancing poses

Modifications

  • Bend supporting knee

Variations

  • Seated extended balance

Cautions & Contraindications

Cautions

  • Avoid locking knee
  • Maintain control

Avoid this pose if you have:

  • Hip injury

Use This Pose

Quick Facts

Primary Focus

core

Secondary Focus

hips

Suggested Hold

30 seconds

Tags

seatedbalancecore

Equipment

yoga mat