Wheel Pose

Wheel Pose – Yoga for Martial Arts Flexibility

This page provides details for the Wheel Pose or Upward Bow Pose. This Yoga exercise is used by martial artsstudents in order to loosen their back, chest, etc. This exercise also works on shoulder and arm strength. This advanced backbending Yoga pose generally requires students to have considerable flexibility in order to perform this stretch.

During pre-class warm-ups, you will often see young Taekwondo or Karate students perform this stretch given their greater flexibility. The Wheel Pose is not recommended for people with a back injury or problem. Alternative Yoga exercises include the Bow PoseBridge Pose and Cobra Stretch.

All stretches and exercises should be supervised by a trained instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. For additional martial arts stretches targeting other areas of the body, please visit the main Martial Arts Stretches or Yoga for Martial Arts sections.

Instructional Videos for the Wheel Pose