Wheel

ūrdhva dhanurāsanaऊर्ध्व धनुरासन
Wheel
M

Maya - Pose Assistant

Ask me anything about Wheel

Benefits

Wheel Pose (Upward Bow) is an advanced deep backbend strengthening arms, legs, abdomen, spine; profoundly stretching chest, lungs, shoulders, hip flexors. Highly energizing.

Practice Guide

1

Lie on back, knees bent, feet hip-width near buttocks.

2

Place hands alongside head, fingers point to shoulders, elbows shoulder-width up.

3

Inhale, press feet/hands, lift hips (like Bridge).

4

Continue pressing, lift shoulders, crown of head lightly to mat (checkpoint).

5

Exhale, then inhale, push strongly hands/feet, straighten arms/legs (as much as possible), lift torso/head off floor into arch.

6

Keep feet/thighs parallel. Head hangs gently or neck follows spine curve.

7

Breathe steadily. Exit: tuck chin, bend elbows/knees, slowly lower shoulders, then hips.

Modifications

Use blocks under hands (against wall).

Spotter assistance.

Push to Bridge, then crown, then full Wheel.

Feet wider initially.

Press chest towards back wall.

Safety Notes

Acute back injury

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Diarrhea

Headache

Heart problems

High/low blood pressure

Shoulder impingement/instability

Anatomy

Muscles Targeted

Spinal extensors
Glutes
Hamstrings
Quadriceps
Triceps
Shoulders
Wrists
Core

Muscles Stretched

Entire front body: hip flexors, abdomen, chest, shoulders
Wrists

Focus Areas

Deep BackbendAdvanced BackbendProfound Chest OpenerFull Body StrengthShoulder OpenerHip Flexor StretchEnergizingPeak Pose

Yoga Styles

Signature of
Also practiced in
advanced_vinyasa
⚠️ Typically avoided in
yinrestorativegentle_hatha
ashtangaTraditional approach with strict arm and leg alignment, often performed multiple times in sequence
powerPeak pose in backbending sequences, emphasizing strength and depth
vinyasaOften used as climax in heart-opening flows, may include creative transitions in and out
general_modificationsBeginners work toward wheel through bridge variations and supported versions

Sequencing

Maya's Tips

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

Deep Powerful Full Body Backbend Chest OpenerPeak Pose Backbending SequenceRequires Significant Strength Flexibility Throughout BodyHighly Energizing Approach With Care Prep