How can I modify Downward Dog for a lady that is heavy ?

Question

1.00K viewsNovember 13, 2012

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Teresa November 12, 2012 0 Comments

She is a young woman, fairly overweight and says she cannot support her weight when in the downward dog position

7 Answers

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score 0 · Answer 1

If it’s too uncomfortable and it’s not a necessity at this time I would eliminate it.

Once she becomes stronger and more confident you can have her try it with bent knees.

score 0 · Answer 2

How about modifying the movement with a chair?

You can do it with the back of the chair and then progress it to the seat of the chair. If there is a ballet barre in the class, perhaps you can use the bar.

I hope this is of help.

score 0 · Answer 3

Hello Teresa,

I have used coffee tables, steps and chairs (as Joanne says). You could also wait on this move like Susan suggests.
Take care.

score 0 · Answer 4

Teresa

Until the person in question has gained an appropriate level of fitness why not try breaking down the movement into segments.

The downward dog is combined wrist extension, shoulder flexion to approximately 170-190 degrees, hip flexion to 90ish degrees and full dorsi flexion.

Have the person work on these isolated positions and integrate them all once they are prepared to tolerate the downward dog position.

score 0 · Answer 5

One thing that I like to do with individuals whose wrists are tender (regardless of bodyweight) is do the movement against a wall. Starting with hands up on the wall as far as comfortable, then walk away from the wall while still touching it, “leading” with the tailbone. Chairs and steps are great if you have them in the room. For the rooms I’m in, a wall is easier to access.

How can I modify Downward Dog for a lady that is heavy ?

7 Answers

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