Side-To-Side Garland Pose
Loosen tight hips and improve mobility with the Side-To-Side Garland Pose! Perfect for a gentle stretch and increased flexibility.
The Side-To-Side Garland Pose mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hip adductors (inner thighs) and core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Optional Equipment

Side-To-Side Garland Pose Muscles Worked
Primary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Secondary
Hip Adductors; Obliques
Side-To-Side Garland Pose Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Side-To-Side Garland Pose
Starting Position:
Stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
Point your toes outwards at a comfortable angle.
Lowering into the Pose:
Bend your knees and lower your hips towards the ground as if you are squatting down.
Keep your chest upright and engage your core muscles to maintain balance.
Positioning Your Arms:
Bring your palms together in front of your chest in a prayer position (Anjali Mudra).
Use your elbows to gently press against your inner thighs, helping to deepen the stretch.
Shifting Side to Side:
While keeping your hips low, shift your weight to one side, allowing that knee to go over the toes.
Hold this position for a few breaths, feeling the stretch in the inner thigh of the opposite leg.
Transitioning:
Gradually shift your weight to the other side, repeating the same process.
Alternate sides for a total of 5-10 times, breathing deeply throughout the exercise.
Returning to the Starting Position:
After completing the side-to-side movements, slowly rise back to a standing position by straightening your legs.
Take a moment to stand tall and reset your posture.
Cool Down:
Finish by gently swaying your hips side to side to release any tension.
Tips:
Keep your movements slow and controlled to avoid straining.
Focus on your breathing, inhaling deeply as you lower and exhaling as you shift.
If you feel discomfort in your knees or back, adjust your position and ensure you are not forcing the stretch.
Side-To-Side Garland Pose FAQs
What muscles does the Side-To-Side Garland Pose work?
The Side-To-Side Garland Pose mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hip adductors (inner thighs) and core. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and gluteus maximus.
What equipment do you need for the Side-To-Side Garland Pose?
None. The Side-To-Side Garland Pose is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Side-To-Side Garland Pose go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Side-To-Side Garland Pose variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Extended Side-Angle Pose, Garland Pose Sky Reach Hand Hold, Garland Pose and Gate Rock Stretch.
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