Beyond the Basics
Arm balances are the poses that make people stop scrolling. They look impossible, gravity-defying, almost magical. But here's the secret: they're not about arm strength.
Arm balances are about core engagement, weight distribution, and confidence.
The Foundation: Crow Pose (Bakasana)
Crow pose is the gateway arm balance. Master this, and everything else becomes possible.
How to Get There
- Start in a deep squat (malasana), feet slightly apart
- Place your hands shoulder-width apart, fingers spread wide
- Bend your elbows slightly, creating a shelf with your upper arms
- Lean forward and place your knees high on the backs of your arms
- Shift your weight forward until your toes naturally lift
- Engage your core — draw your belly button to your spine
- Gaze forward (not down) to maintain balance
Common Mistakes
- Placing hands too narrow — keep them shoulder-width
- Looking at the floor — your body follows your gaze
- Straightening the arms — keep a slight bend
- Fear of falling — place a cushion in front until confidence builds
Intermediate: Side Crow (Parsva Bakasana)
Once crow feels stable, side crow adds a twist — literally.
Advanced: Flying Pigeon (Eka Pada Galavasana)
This pose combines hip flexibility, core strength, and balance in one spectacular package.
Want to build towards inversions too? Check out our Headstand Tutorial and Inversions for Beginners guides.
Training Tips
- Wrists first — warm up with wrist circles and stretches
- Core, core, core — planks and hollow holds translate directly
- Film yourself — what feels wrong often looks right
- Fall safely — tuck and roll, never catch with wrists
- Practise daily — even 5 minutes of balance work accelerates progress
A regular morning yoga routine can help build the core strength you need for these poses.
Ready to take flight? Our classes build the strength and confidence you need for arm balances. Book today.
