Supported Warrior II

virabhadrasana II variation
M

Maya - Pose Assistant

Ask me anything about Supported Warrior II

Benefits

A pregnancy-safe version of Warrior II with support options to accommodate changing balance, weight distribution, and energy levels throughout pregnancy. Maintains leg strength while providing stability and comfort.

Practice Guide

1

Stand with feet 3.5-4 feet apart (wider than traditional Warrior II for stability).

2

Turn right foot out 90 degrees, left foot in slightly (15-30 degrees).

3

SUPPORT OPTION A: Stand with back against wall for stability support.

4

SUPPORT OPTION B: Place chair or yoga block under front thigh for resting support.

5

Bend right knee over ankle, keeping thigh parallel to floor or higher as comfortable.

6

Extend arms out to sides at shoulder height, or rest hands on hips if arms tire.

7

Keep torso upright and centered between legs.

8

Gaze over front hand or forward (avoid extreme neck turns).

9

Hold for 30-45 seconds (shorter than traditional holds).

10

Straighten front leg, turn feet parallel, rest, then repeat on left side.

11

Listen to your body - exit pose if any discomfort.

Modifications

Use wall behind back for support and alignment feedback

Place chair or block under front thigh to rest leg

Keep hands on hips instead of extending arms

Take wider stance for better balance and stability

Don't bend front knee as deeply - keep thigh above parallel

Hold for shorter durations (30-45 seconds vs 1+ minute)

Use yoga strap between hands if extending arms causes fatigue

Safety Notes

Severe pelvic girdle pain or SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction)

High blood pressure (avoid long holds, keep gaze forward)

Severe balance issues or dizziness

Severe fatigue (modify to seated version)

Recent hip or knee injury

Anatomy

Muscles Targeted

Legs (quadriceps, glutes, adductors)
Core (gentle stability)
Arms and shoulders (if extended)
Pelvic floor (gentle engagement)

Muscles Stretched

Inner thighs (adductors)
Hip flexors (back leg)
Chest and shoulders (if arms extended)
Ankles (gentle)

What's Next?

Maya suggests trying these poses:

Focus Areas

Prenatal SafeLeg StrengthBalance With SupportHip OpeningEndurance BuildingGrounding

Yoga Styles

Signature of
Also practiced in
GentleTherapeuticHathaRestorative
PrenatalAlways offer support options, shorter holds, wider stance
GentleUse chair support, very slow transitions
TherapeuticCustomize support based on pregnancy stage and comfort
HathaFocus on alignment and breath, longer holds if comfortable
RestorativeMaximum support with wall, chair, and props

Sequencing

Maya's Tips

These insights help Maya understand how this pose flows with others when creating sequences and classes.

Essential Prenatal Standing Pose With SupportBuilds Leg Strength Safely During PregnancyGreat For Maintaining Stamina And EnduranceCan Be Used In Standing Sequences With ModificationsPerfect Preparation For Labor Strength Building