Sphinx Pose Look Up
Stretch and strengthen your spine with Sphinx Pose! Gently improves posture & flexibility.
The Sphinx Pose Look Up mainly works the core and back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Optional Equipment
Sphinx Pose Look Up Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Lats (latissimus dorsi)
Secondary
Obliques; Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor)
Sphinx Pose Look Up Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Sphinx Pose Look Up
Starting Position:
Lie face down on the floor or mat.
Keep your legs extended behind you with the tops of your feet flat on the ground.
Your toes should be pointing straight back.
Hand Placement:
Place your elbows directly under your shoulders.
Forearms should be flat on the ground, with your fingers pointing forward.
Body Positioning:
Keep your hips and pelvis grounded.
Engage your abdominal muscles slightly to protect your lower back.
Lifting the Chest:
Inhale deeply as you gently lift your chest off the ground.
Press down through your forearms to support your lift.
Keep your neck long and relaxed as you lift your head and chest.
Look Up:
As you elevate, tilt your head back slightly to gaze upwards towards the ceiling.
Avoid straining your neck; only look up as far as comfortable.
Hold the Position:
Maintain this position for 15-30 seconds, breathing deeply throughout.
Feel the stretch in your chest, shoulders, and abdomen.
Returning to Start:
To exit the pose, slowly lower your chest back down to the ground.
Relax and turn your head to one side for a moment before getting up.
Repetition:
You can repeat this stretch 2-3 times, allowing for a brief rest in between.
Tips for Beginners:
If you feel strain in your lower back, try to lower the height of your chest lifting.
Ensure your elbows stay under your shoulders and avoid overarching your back.
Keep your breaths smooth and controlled to enhance relaxation.
Sphinx Pose Look Up FAQs
What muscles does the Sphinx Pose Look Up work?
The Sphinx Pose Look Up mainly works the core and back. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and latissimus dorsi.
What equipment do you need for the Sphinx Pose Look Up?
None. The Sphinx Pose Look Up is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Sphinx Pose Look Up variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Animal Resting Pose, Bodybuilding Pose, Bow Pose and Ceiling Look Stretch.
Training calculators
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