Upward Facing Dog – Yoga for Martial Arts Flexibility
This page provides details for the Upward Facing Dog stretch. This Yoga stretch is used by martial arts students in order to loosen their lower back, shoulders, stomach, etc.
The Upward Facing Dog differs from the Cobra Stretch because you need to be off the ground in the Upward Facing Dog (versus lying on the ground for the Cobra Stretch). Because you are off the ground for this stretch, you will also be working on your core, shoulder and triceps strength. This stretch is not recommended for students with back problems.
All stretches should be supervised by a trained instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. For additional martial arts stretches targeting other areas of the body, please visit the main Martial Arts Stretches or Yoga for Martial Arts sections.
Instructional Videos for the Upward Facing Dog