Movement overview

The Standing Forward Bend, also known as Uttanasana in yoga, is a fundamental exercise that stretches the hamstrings, calves, and hips while strengthening the thighs and knees. It also helps improve flexibility in the spine and promotes relaxation.

Step-by-step cues

1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides.
2. Inhale deeply, then exhale as you hinge at your hips to fold forward.
3. Keep your knees slightly bent if necessary to avoid straining your lower back.
4. Allow your head to hang heavy and relax your neck.
5. Place your hands on the floor, on blocks, or hold onto opposite elbows.
6. Hold the position for 15-30 seconds, breathing deeply.
7. To come up, engage your core and slowly roll up vertebra by vertebra.

Technical tips

• Focus on hinging from the hips rather than rounding the back.
• Keep a slight bend in the knees if you feel tension in the lower back.
• Engage your core muscles to support your spine during the movement.
• Relax your shoulders away from your ears to avoid tension in the neck.
• If you can't reach the floor, use yoga blocks for support.
• Breathe deeply throughout the exercise to enhance relaxation and flexibility.