How To Practice High Plank Pose Or Kumbhakasana

by | Yoga, Yoga Poses

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High Plank (Kumbhakasana):

Name: High Plank Yoga Pose

Sanskrit: Kumbhakasana

Alternate Names: Front Plank

Pronunciation: koom-bhah-KAH-sah-nah

Pose Level: Beginner

Although, High Plank or Plank may be a “beginner-friendly” asana, it takes strength to maintain the pose correctly.

High Plank Yoga Pose

Anatomy involved

  • Core
  • Arms
  • Shoulders
  • Back/Spine
  • Thighs
  • Buttocks

Benefits:

  • A core strengthening pose
  • Prepares the body for further balancing poses
  • Improves strength in the arms and wrists
  • Improves shoulder stability
  • Said to help with digestion
  • Helps with balance
  • Helps with flow during Sun Salutations
  • Inner Strength

Related Article: Can Yoga Really Help for Digestion? Let’s Explain!

Table: Step-by-Step Instructions for High Plank Pose

StepInstructions
1Transition from Downward-Facing Dog or start on your hands and knees.
2Place your hands at the top of your yoga mat, about shoulder-width apart.
3Extend your legs behind you. Engage or bring tension to your thighs. Then, stretch your heels back.
4Ground yourself with the mat below. At the same time, squeeze your buttocks and engage your core to flatten the belly.
5Gaze downward towards the floor.
6Breathe in and out, completing a cycle of 5-10 breaths.

Pose Modifications of High Plank:

Modifications to Plank pose are many:

This includes, Forearm plank, Side plank, doing plank while knees touch the mat (Table-Top plank), even a Reverse plank.

Furthermore, you can try Plank with Leg Lifts, Plank with Arms Lifts, or Incline plank.

Contraindications:

Avoid this Plank position if suffering from wrist injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome. Furthermore, if you suffer from shoulder or other arm injuries.

Always consult with a medical expert if pregnant.

Poses Commonly Transitioned To:

Downward-Facing Dog, Upward Facing Dog

Poses Commonly Transitioned From:

Downward-Facing Dog, Cat-Cow

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you use them to purchase items, then we may earn a small commission. Hope you find something that you like!
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