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Warrior I

Virabhadrasana I (veer-ah-bah-DRAHS-anna I)

Strengthens legs, glutes, and core. Opens chest and hip flexors. Builds focus and grounding.

Warrior I

You Should Feel

Work in your front leg—quad and glute engaged. Stretch through the front of your back hip. Chest lifting, arms active.

How to Get Into the Pose

  • 1Front knee bends to 90 degrees, stacking over ankle
  • 2Back leg straight and strong, back foot angled 45-60 degrees
  • 3Hips working toward being square with the front of your mat (challenging—requires back hip to draw forward)
  • 4Chest lifts, arms reach overhead
  • 5Shoulders relax down away from ears

Modifications

  • If hips don't square easily: Widen your stance (step front foot slightly to the side)
  • If balance is challenging: Shorten your stance
  • If shoulders are tight: Keep arms at shoulder height or in prayer at your chest
  • To deepen: Sink your hips lower while maintaining alignment