Triangle Pose, or Utthita Trikonasana in Sanskrit the language of Yoga, is a classic pose. Almost every style of yoga has some version of this intense hip and inner thigh stretcher and strengthener pose. If you practice Triangle regularly, it will strengthen the thighs, ankles and adductors (inner thighs). It will stretch the groin, hips, hamstrings and chest and strengthen the side waist. Any forward bend will aid in relaxation from stress and relieves anxiety.
How it's done:
1. Step to a wide legged straddle on your mat where your feet are about 3 1/2 feet apart and you feel stable.
2. For your first side, turn your left foot forward to the top of the mat and angle right foot out about 90 degrees.
3. Lift your arms about shoulder height, keep your chest open and side waist strong
as you slowly reach your left hand down to your shin. If you feel your chest and shoulders collapsing or are still developing core strength, grab a block and set your left fist on it.
4. Stay in the pose for at least 10 breaths, come out by bending your left knee to support your back to come up, switch sides.
5. The best way to learn new poses or if you have questions, please visit one of our many yoga classes, or sign up for a Yoga Private at Seattle Athletic Club Downtown.
Written by Tonja Renee Hall
Yoga Instructor, Seattle Athletic Club Downtown
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Hi, Tonja. You are right about triangle pose strengthening the thighs. We have a great free yoga video on the triangle pose. It was made by Leeann Carey, my boss, & an inspiring yoga teacher. I thought your readers would benefit from taking a look at this: http://planetyoga.com/yoga-blogs/index.php/leeann-breaks-down-trikonasana-triangle-pose-on-video/
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