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    3. Downward Facing Dog Adho Mukha Svanasana

    Downward Facing Dog Adho Mukha Svanasana Exercise Guide

    Downward Facing Dog Adho Mukha Svanasana demonstration

    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

    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.

    Downward Facing Dog Adho Mukha Svanasana Alternatives

    Garland Pose Malasana

    Garland Pose Malasana

    Body Part: Yoga

    Fish Pose Matsyasana

    Fish Pose Matsyasana

    Body Part: Yoga

    Half Moon Pose Ardha Chandrasana

    Half Moon Pose Ardha Chandrasana

    Body Part: Yoga

    Tags

    yoga
    stretching
    flexibility
    shoulders
    back
    hips

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