Yoga Poses & Adaptations for Hip Health and Hip Issues
![Express "Yoga Adaptations" in surrealism](https://ashtanga.tech/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Express-"Yoga-Adaptations"-in-surrealism-150x150.png)
Adaptation
Overview
In this lesson, we explore numerous poses from the perspective of hip health and supporting students experiencing hip issues.
Objective
Gain understanding of specific asana considerations for hip health, including cautions with twisting, appropriate cues, and adaptations for various standing and seated poses.
What You'll Get
You'll learn how to work intelligently with the hips, one of the most complex and commonly problematic areas in yoga practice. This covers why certain cues like "hug the midline" can be harmful for hip issues, how to approach twists with care, and specific considerations for dozens of poses from Warrior II to Pigeon. For teachers, this helps you guide students safely and avoid perpetuating common misalignments. For practitioners managing hip pain or arthritis, you'll understand what to watch for and how to modify your practice to support healing.
Lesson Overview
In this lesson, we view numerous poses from the lens of hip health and supporting students who are experiencing hip issues.
Objective
Be aware of specific asana considerations for hip health and supporting students who are experiencing hip issues.
Description
Explain the reason for students with hip issues to be cautious with twists and why using the cue, “hug the midline” may not be appropriate for students with hip issues. Describe the purpose you might select Anjaneyasana and a point of emphasis for stretching quads and hip flexors. Provide hip-related intentions and considerations for each of the following standing poses: Virabhadrasana II, Utthita Parsvakonasana, Virabhadrasana I, Prasarita Padottanasana, Parsvottanasana, Vrksasana, Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana, and Parivrtta Trikonasana. Provide intentions and considerations for Malasana, Setu Bandhasana, Supta Padangusthasana and Gomukhasana. List seated pose considerations for stretching external rotators and explain how propped variations of Virasana may support hip health.
General Considerations
When considering asana for students with hip issues:
- Be cautious with twisting.
- Instead of using the cue, “hug the midline,” with these students, focus more on making space and avoiding any “gripping.”
- For arthritis of the hip, see links below.
Continue Reading with Ashtanga Tech
This study guide is available to members. Join to access 800+ in-depth guides on anatomy, philosophy, sequencing, and the science of practice.
Join for $5.50/mo — the cost of a DC coffeeAlready a member? Log in here