ProneBeginner

Crocodile variations

Nakrasana

Crocodile (Nakrasana) is a dynamic plank variation that springs the body forward and back like a stalking crocodile, building explosive strength.

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How to Perform

  1. 1

    Start prone with palms beside waist and feet hip-width, toes tucked.

  2. 2

    Press up to low plank with elbows bent and body parallel to the floor.

  3. 3

    On an exhale, hop hands and feet forward about a foot while maintaining the low hover.

  4. 4

    Pause, inhale, then exhale to hop forward again; repeat 4–5 lunges keeping body rigid.

  5. 5

    Reverse the hops to travel back to the starting point before lowering to the mat.

Benefits

  • Develops powerful wrists, shoulders, and core through plyometric load.
  • Ignites circulation and dispels lethargy by building heat.
  • Sharpens coordination and mental focus in advanced vinyasa transitions.

Alignment Cues

  • Shoulders hover slightly above wrists throughout.
  • Hips stay level with shoulders to maintain plank line.
  • Gaze slightly ahead to keep neck long.
  • Engage inner thighs to prevent legs from splaying.

Common Mistakes

No common mistakes listed.

Contraindications

  • Acute wrist, elbow, or shoulder injury
  • Pregnancy
  • High blood pressure or vertigo aggravated by dynamic movement

Recommended Props

Wrist wedgesBlocks under hands

Tags

ArmsBeginnerCorePlank to Dog FlowProneShouldersasana