Lizard Pose
A deep hip and hamstring stretching pose where the body is held in a low lunge position with hands supporting the upper body weight.
Instructions
- Start in a high plank position with hands shoulder-width apart on the ground.
- Step your right foot forward and place it on the outside of your right hand.
- Lower your hips down toward the ground, creating a deep lunge stretch on the right side.
- If flexibility allows, place your right elbow inside your right knee, pressing forward gently.
- Keep your left leg extended behind you with toes on the ground for stability.
- Distribute your upper body weight between your hands and forearms.
- Keep your chest up and look slightly forward rather than down.
- Hold the stretch for 20-60 seconds while breathing deeply and relaxing into the position.
- Repeat on the opposite side, stepping your left foot forward.
Tips
- This is a deep hip opening stretch; never force the position
- Keep your front knee stable and aligned with your ankle
- The stretch should feel intense but never cause sharp pain
- Use your hands to control the intensity of the stretch
- Breathe deeply and relax into the pose with each exhale
- This pose is excellent for improving hip mobility and flexibility
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 |