Appears in642 Workouts*

Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose

Increase leg strength and flexibility with Side-To-Side Skandasana! A dynamic lower body exercise to improve balance and mobility.

The Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings and core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose Muscles Worked

Primary

Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)

Secondary

Hamstrings; Obliques

How to do the Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose

  1. Starting Position:

    • Begin by standing upright with your feet shoulder-width apart. Engage your core muscles for stability.

  2. Initiate the Stretch:

    • Step your right foot out to the side, bending your right knee while keeping your left leg straight. Your body should lower into a lunge on the right side.

  3. Positioning:

    • Ensure your right knee is directly above your right ankle. Your left leg should be extended straight, with the toes pointing forward or slightly outward.

  4. Hand Placement:

    • Place your hands on the floor inside your right foot, offering support. You can also keep them in front of your chest in a prayer position if you feel stable.

  5. Transitioning:

    • Push off your right foot to rotate your body toward the left side. As you do this, extend your left leg out to the side and bend your left knee, lowering into a lunge on the left side.

  6. Repeat Movement:

    • Alternate sides, moving from the right lunge to the left lunge and back. Focus on moving smoothly and with control.

  7. Breathing:

    • Inhale deeply as you transition between sides and exhale as you lower into each lunge. Maintain a steady breath throughout the exercise.

  8. Duration:

    • Continue the side-to-side movement for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your comfort level.

  9. Finishing:

    • Gradually slow down, returning to the standing position when finished. Take a moment to relax and focus on your breath.

Tips:

  • Ensure to keep your back straight and avoid leaning forward excessively while lunging.

  • If you find it challenging to maintain balance, you can hold onto a wall or sturdy object for support.

  • As you gain flexibility, try to lower your hips closer to the ground.

Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose FAQs

What muscles does the Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose work?

The Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose mainly works the quads and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings and core. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and gluteus maximus.

What equipment do you need for the Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose?

None. The Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What workout day should the Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Side-To-Side Skandasana Pose variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the 90-To-90 Switch, 90-To-90, Bird of Paradise Pose Svarga Dvijasana and Extended Side-Angle Pose.

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