Legs Up the Wall

Level
beginner
Equipment
gym mat
Category
stretching

A restorative yoga pose performed with legs elevated against a wall that promotes relaxation, circulation, and gentle passive stretching.

Instructions

  1. Sit sideways on a yoga mat with one hip close to a wall.
  2. Lie back while rotating your body so that your legs go up the wall.
  3. Scoot your buttocks as close to the wall as comfortable, allowing your legs to rest fully against the wall.
  4. Let your arms rest at your sides with palms facing up, keeping them relaxed away from your body.
  5. Relax your neck and head, looking straight up toward the ceiling.
  6. Breathe slowly and deeply while maintaining the position for several minutes.
  7. To release, gently push with your hands to roll onto your side and slowly return to a seated position.

Tips

  • This is a restorative pose meant for relaxation, not stretching
  • Stay in the pose for 5-15 minutes for maximum benefits
  • Use a thin pillow or folded blanket under your head if needed for comfort
  • Keep your legs straight or slightly bent at the knees if more comfortable
  • This pose can help reduce anxiety and promote circulation
  • Avoid this pose if you have eye problems or high blood pressure without clearance from your doctor

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Hold
Gain strength 3 25 s
Build muscle 3 40 s
Build endurance 3 1 min