Warrior 1

Warrior 1 (Virabhadrasana I) is part of the series of poses in many of the versions of Sun Salutations. The pose stretches one’s chest, lungs, shoulders, neck, abdomen and groin, and opens the hips. Despite standing still, the pose is vigorous, as all one’s muscles are alert and active, which strengthens the legs, shoulders, arms and back. Doing Warrior 1 builds power in the ankles, calves and thighs. Although it seems easy enough for beginners, to really perfect the alignment to keep the hip bones facing forward, the front leg bent to 90 degrees, and the back leg turned 75 degrees outward, takes time and much practice.