Appears in642 Workouts*

Boat Stretch

Strengthen your core with the Boat Stretch! Improves posture, balance, & flexibility. Hold, breathe, and feel the burn!

The Boat Stretch mainly works the core, with help from the quads. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Boat Stretch demo video 2
Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Boat Stretch Muscles Worked

Primary

Hip Flexor (iliopsoas); Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

Secondary

Obliques; Quads (quadriceps femoris)

How to do the Boat Stretch

  1. Start in a seated position on the floor with your knees bent, feet flat on the ground, and arms resting at your sides.

  2. Lean back slightly, engaging your core and lifting your chest toward the ceiling to maintain a straight spine.

  3. Lift your feet off the floor, balancing on your sit bones, and straighten your legs at an upwards angle to create a V-shape with your torso and thighs.

  4. Extend your arms forward, parallel to the ground or holding on to your legs just below the knees for additional support.

  5. Hold this position, making sure to keep your back straight, your core engaged, and your legs as straight as possible. Your body should resemble the shape of a boat, hence the name "Boat Stretch."

  6. Maintain the pose for a set duration or number of breaths, typically between 20 to 30 seconds, or as long as comfortable while maintaining proper form.

  7. Gently release the pose, returning your feet to the ground and relaxing your arms to your sides.

  8. Repeat the stretch for the desired number of repetitions.

This exercise is especially beneficial for improving core strength and stability, promoting better posture, and enhancing balance and flexibility in the hip flexors and abdomen.

Boat Stretch FAQs

What muscles does the Boat Stretch work?

The Boat Stretch mainly works the core, with help from the quads. The main muscles are the iliopsoas and rectus abdominis.

What equipment do you need for the Boat Stretch?

None. The Boat Stretch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Boat Stretch variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Boat Pose, Bow Pose, Half Boat Pose Ardha Navasana and Abdominal Stretch.

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