The Boat Pose

Though challenging for some, the Boat Pose is particularly effective for strengthening the core muscles, including the hip flexors, lower back, and abdomen. However, tight hamstrings or hip flexors can pose a common difficulty in this posture. These tight muscles may cause the back to round and disrupt balance when straightening the legs.

The hip flexors are a group of at least seven muscles that connect the spine and hips to the legs. They play a crucial role in movements like raising the thighs toward the spine during walking or running and bending the spine toward the thighs when we bend down.

Yoga sequences serve various purposes, including energising, relaxing and building balance and strength. The Boat Pose, often included in some yoga sequences, offers a blend of these benefits.

Prolonged sitting can cause the hip flexors to remain in a constant state of contraction without adequate stretching. Over time, this can reduce their strength, negatively impact posture, and lead to back and hip pain.

As practitioners improve their muscle coordination, additional poses can be incorporated into a sequence to further build muscle strength and stability.

(When referring to muscular systems, "contraction" refers to the generation of tension within muscle fibres, not necessarily their shortening.)

More Insights