Utthitha Parsvakonasana - Yoga For Legs

Utthitha Parsvakonasana is a basic yoga pose which should be practiced along with Utthitha Trikonasana to build up stamina and strength required for later poses. This can also be practiced to build up leg strength for people who are weak people. After practicing for few weeks you would be able to see noticeable difference in your leg strength and the shape.

Utthitha means extended. Parsva means flanks and Kona means angle. The body is stretch in the flanks while creating angle hence it is named so.

Steps to Practice Utthitha Parsvakonasana

1. Stand on the mat with the feet around 4 feet apart and arms extended sideways.


2. Turn the right foot outside so that is it perpendicular to the body. Turn the left floor to adjust the body position accordingly.


3. Stay in this position for few breath counts.


4. With exhalation bend the right leg so that thigh is perpendicular to the ground. Take care that the knee should be in line with the ankle.


5. Take two breaths and place the right hand on the ground making sure that the armpit touches the right knee.


6. Extend the left arm over the head and look up.


7. Now push the upper chest higher so that so that there is stretching in the skin of the back.


8. This is the final position. Stay in this position for as long as you are comfortable with normal breathing.


9. Come out of the pose with inhalation and repeat the sequence on the other side.
   Gradually increase the time in this pose.

Benefits of Utthitha Parsvakonasana

1. Increased strength in ankles, thighs and overall legs.


2. Stamina increases a lot.


3. Chest Opens up, Good for introvert people.


4. Upper Back Strength increases.


5. Decrease the fat in the hip region.


6. Improves peristaltic movement hence good for people suffering from Constipation.

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