By Allison Ray Jeraci
Photo by Andrea Killam
Yoga International
In addition to yoga, vasisthasana, or side plank pose, is commonly found in other types of classes and fitness modalities, such as strength and conditioning, gymnastics, and CrossFit. This may lead yoga students who come from those disciplines to hew to the pose because of its familiarity.
Despite its challenging nature, vasisthasana is more accessible than other single-arm balances such as kapinjalasana (partridge pose) and visvamitrasana (Sage Visvamitra’s pose) and two-arm balances like bakasana (crane pose) and astavakrasana (eight angle pose). Adding props to the vasisthasana equation is an excellent way to feel physically supported, receive feedback, and make the pose even more accessible.
For these variations, you will need a wall and two to four blocks.