Downward Facing Dog Adho Mukha Svanasana Exercise Guide

Downward Facing Dog Adho Mukha Svanasana gif

Exercise Profile

Target
Shoulders
Equipment
Body weight
Body Part
Yoga
Primary Muscle
Shoulders
Secondary Muscles
Back, Hips, Thighs
Intensity
medium
Category
stretching
Skill Level
beginner
Estimated Calories
3.5
Alternate Names
Adho Mukha Svanasana

Visualised Target Muscle Groups

Front

Body muscles front

Back

Body muscles back

How to: Downward Facing Dog Adho Mukha Svanasana

  1. Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position.
  2. Tuck your toes under and lift your knees off the floor, straightening your legs.
  3. Lift your hips up and back, creating an inverted V shape.
  4. Press your hands firmly into the floor and lengthen your spine.
  5. Hold the position for several breaths, then release.

Common Mistakes

  • Not fully extending the hips back.
  • Letting the head drop too far down.
  • Tensing the shoulders instead of relaxing them.

Modifications

  • Bend your knees to relieve pressure on your lower back.
  • Use a wall for support if balance is an issue.

Tips

  • Keep your spine neutral and avoid bending your knees too much.
  • Push through your hands to lengthen your spine.
  • Engage your core for better stability.

Tags

yoga
stretching
flexibility
shoulders
back
hips

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