Pause & Pose: Awkward Chair

Strengthen your legs, core and more with the Awkward Chair Pose! Honest yogi, Jessica James, is here to give us the step by step. It's a challenging move, but it's totally worth mastering. 

Awkward Chair Pose

Utkatasana Variation

Level 1

Benefits: This variation is usually found in Bikram yoga and it definitely delivers on its name! It is a tiptoed squat that builds heat by getting your whole body working. It’s challenging and can feel awkward at the very least, but it’s worth it! It strengthens your quads, hamstrings, calves, ankles, core and back muscles, while toning your arms and improving your balance all at once.

Tip: There is no way around working in this pose! The obvious work of this pose is in your legs, so focusing on your core might feel like your last priority, but it is important! When you engage your core in this pose you create support in your low back. This allows your upper body to do some of the work and helps to avoid injury. If your balance is challenged, practice by a wall and find a focal point out in front that isn't moving.

Now go pause, pose and find peace.