Arm BalancesAdvanced

One-Legged Crow Pose I

Eka Pada Bakasana I

One-Legged Crow Pose I keeps one knee on the triceps while the other leg extends straight back, refining balance and core strength.

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How to Perform

  1. 1

    Start in Crane Pose with knees on the upper arms and palms shoulder-width.

  2. 2

    Shift weight forward, keep the left knee anchored on the left arm, and begin to lengthen the right leg back.

  3. 3

    On an exhale extend the right leg fully behind you at hip height while pressing the chest forward.

  4. 4

    Hug the left thigh into the arm, draw the navel up, and maintain a long line from crown to back heel.

  5. 5

    Hold for 3–5 breaths, then re-fold the right leg, return to Crane, and repeat on the second side.

Benefits

  • Builds unilateral wrist, shoulder, and core strength.
  • Improves hip extension and hamstring length in the lifted leg.
  • Enhances concentration and proprioception by shifting the centre of gravity.

Alignment Cues

  • Supporting knee stays high on the triceps
  • Elbows hug in as arms straighten
  • Spine lengthens forward with gaze slightly ahead
  • Hips stay level as the back leg extends

Common Mistakes

  • Collapsing shoulders
  • Holding breath
  • Insufficient core engagement
  • Dumping weight into wrists

Contraindications

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Shoulder instability

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