Last Monday we introduced our first Kona Yoga produced video describing the hamstring muscles. The pictures above were some of the shots I took during the week in various classes, from Wednesday's Gentle Stretch (top row) to the Friday All-levels class (bottom row). Some of the poses used to activate the hamstrings were (top row, left to right) Prasarita Padottanasana and Padangusthasana, (bottom row, left to right) Hanumanasana and Uttanasana against the wall.
The photos illustrate that a careful, consistent practice will safely allow you to move way beyond the average range of motion. Also, a better understanding of the muscles involved in the poses helps to translate the physical sensations we often experience, in and out of class.
This week's focus will be on the quadriceps (thigh) so I went back to KM Massage Training Center to record another anatomy lesson for you, by Geno Ortiz:
- An Introduction to Your Quadriceps (You Tube, 05:53). Geno's getting the hang of this so be prepared for a few bursts of humor.
- Here's a good illustration of the Hamstrings (left) and Quadriceps (right), available for printing. Via Go Workout Mom.
The rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, & the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.
-B.K.S. Iyengar
