Tip of the Week: Locust Pose

Although it may seem like you're mostly using leg strength during Locust Pose to raise your legs in the air, the power actually comes from your upper body.

During the first part, you want to keep your chin out, throat stretching so you can activate/isolate the muscles surrounding your shoulders, scapula and upper spine. 

With your arms straight under your body with your palms facing the floor, stretch your fingers down to your knees until your arms are straight. The wider you stretch your fingers apart, the more you will be able to engage your tricep muscles. Amazingly enough, the strength in your fingertips actually helps you to bring your legs higher in the air.

The more you focus on putting your energy into your back strength and the muscles of your upper body, the easier it will be to lift your legs.