In Extended Side Angle, which arm is used to press the front thigh open?

In Extended Side Angle, which arm is used to press the front thigh open?

• A. Upper Arm
• B. Bottom Arm
• C. Both Arms
• D. No Arm Is Used

Answer: (B)

In Extended Side Angle, the bottom arm presses the front thigh open. This contact provides leverage to rotate the torso toward the ceiling while you keep the spine long and the knee protected. By anchoring the front leg with the bottom arm, you create stability and space for the chest to lift and the side body to lengthen as the top arm reaches overhead. It’s a subtle but important cue that helps maintain knee alignment and prevent collapse toward the front leg. If you tried to press with the upper arm, the balance and safety of the pose wouldn’t be as effective, and the shoulder and knee alignment could be compromised.

In Extended Side Angle, the bottom arm presses the front thigh open. This contact provides leverage to rotate the torso toward the ceiling while you keep the spine long and the knee protected. By anchoring the front leg with the bottom arm, you create stability and space for the chest to lift and the side body to lengthen as the top arm reaches overhead. It’s a subtle but important cue that helps maintain knee alignment and prevent collapse toward the front leg. If you tried to press with the upper arm, the balance and safety of the pose wouldn’t be as effective, and the shoulder and knee alignment could be compromised.