Earlier this month, we worked on Half Moon Prep to get you ready for Half Moon, one of our fave hip strengtheners. Lets face it: most of us are pretty forward-oriented in our movement. We walk, run, cycle, and we all sit... a lot. One of the reasons why Half Moon is so powerful is because it moves your body outside those habitual movement patterns, which forces the muscles that stabilize your hips and, ultimately, add power to your stride, to wake up and do their job.

Add this pose into your cross-training at least three times per week. Hold for 5+ deep breaths before switching sides...

Step 1: Align your foundation.

Hold a block, book, or water bottle in your right hand and put your left hand on your hip.
Step your feet wide apart, with your feet parallel.
Turn your right thigh out (so that the right foot points to the right) and your left thigh in slightly.
Ready to go!

Step 2: Prepare for lift off.

Reach your block about two feet in front of your right foot — it should line up with the foot.
Look down and keep your left hand on your left hip.
Begin to transfer your weight into your right leg.

Step 3: Lift off!

Engage your core and see if you can lengthen your spine more, as if you're creating more space between your ribs and hips.
Lift your left leg up, bringing it parallel to the floor.
Feel the work happening deep in your hips and then engage your core even more — this will really help your hips keep that leg lifted.
Be sure to push down strongly through your right foot, as if you're pushing the floor away from you.

Step 4: Reach Up

Once you feel steady, reach your left arm toward the ceiling — look up at that hand if you can.
Take some weight out of your right hand that's on the block.

Hit us up with your spring requests by tweeting @athletesforyogahq with #TechniqueTuesday.

Technique Tuesday — Half Moon