Downward Dog

With the hands and feet on the floor the player forms an inverted V. Hands are shoulder-width apart, feet hip-width apart. The hips are pushed up and back while the arms and back lengthen into a straight line. Try to bring the heels toward the floor; the knees may stay slightly bent if needed.

The head hangs comfortably between the arms and the shoulders stay away from the ears. The stretch is felt in the shoulders, upper back, hamstrings and calves. Hold briefly as a warm-up, longer and deeper as a cool-down.