Pigeon Pose

Deep external hip rotation and glute release — restores the rotation that hinging and squatting quietly steal.

DIFFICULTY
Intermediate
EQUIPMENT
Mat · Bodyweight
PRIMARY MUSCLES
Glutes
ALSO WORKS
Lower back · Hamstrings
HOW TO DO IT
  1. 01From all fours, bring one knee forward behind the wrist, shin angled across the mat.
  2. 02Extend the back leg straight behind you, hips square to the floor.
  3. 03Support yourself on hands or forearms — use a block or cushion under the hip if it doesn't reach.
  4. 04Hold 90 seconds per side, breathing into the hip.
COACHING CUES
  1. 01Keep the hips level — if one side lifts, prop it.
  2. 02Back leg long and toes pointed straight back.
  3. 03Never force the front shin parallel; let the hip decide.
COMMON MISTAKES
  1. 01Collapsing onto one hip and torquing the front knee.
  2. 02Chasing depth instead of squareness.
  3. 03Holding your breath through the discomfort.

Note: Reference material, not a prescription. Load, volume and whether this movement suits you at all depends on your assessment — if something hurts, stop and get it looked at.

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