Hamstrings

Paschimottanasana - Seated Forward Bend

The seated forward bend, also known as Paschimottanasana, is a yoga exercise that stretches the back of the body, including the lower back and the back of the legs. You sit with your legs extended and bend your upper body forward to reach for your feet or legs.

Similarly, the Standing Forward Bend, also known as Jefferson Curls, involves letting the upper body hang down from a standing position to stretch the back of the body as well.

Another variation is the forward bend with spread legs, also known as Pancake, where the legs are spread to the sides to additionally stretch the inner thighs.

Paschimottanasana - Seated Forward Bend - the correct execution

  • Start in the long seat
  • Bend your hips and rest your upper body on your thighs
  • Raise your arms overhead in extension of your torsoStretch your arms as far as possible towards your feet

The exercise Paschimottanasana - Seated Forward Bend is intended to be used as a mobility, cool down exercise.

Which muscles are trained by Paschimottanasana - Seated Forward Bend?

Primary trained muscles for Paschimottanasana - Seated Forward Bend

  • Hamstrings - The hamstrings are muscle groups located at the back of your thigh. They help you bend your knee and extend your hip.

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Alternative variants of Paschimottanasana - Seated Forward Bend:

Dynamic Seated Forward Bend

The dynamic seated forward bend expands the classic version with smooth, controlled movements forward and backward. It enhances spinal mobility, improves active flexibility in the back of the legs, and simultaneously strengthens the muscles. The repeated movements also help to specifically increase the range of motion.

Dynamic Seated Forward Bend - the correct execution

  • Start in the long seat
  • Raise your arms overhead in extension of your torso
  • Bend your hips and bring your hands toward your feet
  • Your spine is upright and stable
  • Pull back to the starting position
  • Work in the greatest possible range

Weighted Seated Forward Bend

The seated forward bend with weight, also known as Paschimottanasana with added resistance, intensifies the classic version by using a dumbbell. This modification not only enhances flexibility but also challenges the stabilizing muscles in the lower back. The added weight requires a particularly controlled forward movement, increasing the focus on muscle strength and core stability.

Necessary equipment

Dumbbell

Weighted Seated Forward Bend - the correct execution

  • Start in the long seat
  • Hold a dumbbell with both arms above your head
  • Beuge deine Hüfte und führe das Gewicht in Verlängerung des Oberkörpers Richtung FüßeBend your hips and bring the weight in extension of your torso towards your feet
  • Your spine is upright and stable
  • Pull back to the starting position
  • Work in the greatest possible range

Similar exercises to Paschimottanasana - Seated Forward Bend