Appears in642 Workouts*

Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana

Strengthen legs & core with Warrior II! Ground, breathe, & find balance in this powerful yoga pose. Great for beginners & experienced yogis.

The Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana mainly works the quads and chest, with help from the core and back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana Muscles Worked

Primary

Quads (quadriceps femoris); Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)

Secondary

Obliques; Lats (latissimus dorsi)

How to do the Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana

  1. Starting Position:

    • Begin by standing upright on your yoga mat with your feet together. Ensure your weight is evenly distributed on both feet.

  2. Step Out:

    • Step your left foot back about 3 to 4 feet, keeping both legs straight.

  3. Position Your Feet:

    • Turn your left foot out at a 45-degree angle and keep your right foot facing forward (to the front of the mat).

    • Ensure your front heel aligns with the arch of your back foot for stability.

  4. Bend Your Front Knee:

    • Slowly bend your right knee, making sure it aligns directly over your right ankle. Your thigh should be parallel to the floor.

  5. Extend Your Arms:

    • Raise your arms out to the sides at shoulder height, palms facing down. Your arms should be parallel to the ground.

  6. Gaze Forward:

    • Look over your right hand while keeping your shoulders relaxed and your chest open.

  7. Hold the Position:

    • Maintain this pose for 20-30 seconds, breathing steadily. Focus on grounding through your feet and extending through your fingertips.

  8. Release the Pose:

    • To exit the pose, straighten your right leg and lower your arms. Step back to standing position.

  9. Repeat on the Other Side:

    • Switch your stance by stepping your right foot back and repeating the steps on that side.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Do not force your body into the position; move within a comfortable range.

  • Engage your core for stability.

  • If you have any knee issues, modify by keeping a small bend in the front knee.

  • Use a wall or chair for support if needed.

Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana FAQs

What muscles does the Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana work?

The Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana mainly works the quads and chest, with help from the core and back. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and pectoralis major.

What equipment do you need for the Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana?

None. The Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Warrior Pose II Virabhadrasana variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Bird of Paradise Pose Svarga Dvijasana, Firefly Pose, Ing Lizard Pose Utthan Pristhasana Fly and High Lunge to Warrior Pose.

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