Strike a Pose

What's not to love about a forward bend? These poses feel so good after a run to lengthen the lower back and hamstrings — just the tight places that need a good stretch. If you liked the variation of the pose known as Big Toe Standing Forward Bend, since you hold your toes to pull yourself more deeply into the pose, then you're going to love this variation for the deeper stretch it provides while simultaneously giving your wrists a sweet release.

Sanskrit Name: Padahastasana English Translation: Foot to Hand Pose Also Called: Standing Forward Bend

Learn more details in this pose when you read more

Balancing poses mostly require a tremendous amount of focus, but this one, which is a creative cross between Sage and Half Moon, requires strength in your upper body and core as well. As challenging as it is, it's also a really fun pose to try, because it makes you feel so open, adventurous, and bold.

Sanskrit Name: Utthita Ardha Chandrasana English Translation: Extended Half Moon Pose Also Called: Balancing Star

• Begin in Downward Facing Dog pose. Step both feet together so your big toes are touching.
• Move your right hand over to the left six or so inches so it's at the upper center of your mat.
• Step your right foot forward two inches, and plant the sole of your right foot firmly on the mat so your toes are pointing to the left.
• Roll open to your right side and lift your left hand off the mat. Raise your left leg up into the air.
• Stay here balancing on your right hand and foot. Try to keep your shoulders, spine, and hips in one straight line, and gaze toward your left hand. Press your right fingertips into the mat to take some pressure out of your wrists. Hold here for five deep breaths, trying to keep your core strong and the pose steady.
• Release your left hand and foot back to the mat, take a vinyasa coming back to Downward Facing Dog, and repeat this pose on the left side.

If you've taken a few yoga classes, you'll find that depending on the instructor and the style of yoga, some poses are easy and relaxing, and some are better saved for those with incredible strength and flexibility. That's part of the beauty of yoga — there's a pose fit for everyone's needs and abilities.

Since the backs of our legs are a common tight area, here are three ways you can stretch those hamstrings. Head to Knee A will be the easiest, and allow you to focus on stretching one leg at a time. The middle pose, Intense Side Stretch, is a bit more challenging, and the last pose, Split, is meant for those with very flexible hamstrings. Choose the pose that best suits you, or follow the entire sequence, moving from easiest to hardest.

Head to Knee A

Intense Side Stretch

Split

If yoga is one of your favorite forms of fitness, then check out the Yoga Stretch and Tell group. And tell us which hamstring stretch is your fave.