Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
Crab Pose Mean?
Crab pose is a beginner yoga pose that helps prepare the body for upward plank pose (purvottanasana), which is a more advanced asana.
To perform crab pose, the yogi sits on the floor with the knees bent and places the hands behind the buttocks with the fingers facing the body. The hips then lift off the floor so the torso is flat.
Crab pose may also be known as reverse table pose and is also known as ardha purvottanasana in Sanskrit.
Yogapedia Explains Crab Pose
Benefits of crab pose include:
- Opens the chest
- Stretches the spine, shoulders, abdomen and hamstrings
- Strengthens the core
- Strengthens the arms, wrists, legs and back
- Boosts energy and relieves fatigue
- Improves posture
- Relieves stress
- Creates a sense of balance
Though a beginner pose, crab pose may be difficult for those with reduced arm strength. It is recommended to practice for short durations at first, then slowly increase the time as endurance improves.
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Synonyms
Reverse Table Pose
Reverse Table Top Pose
Reverse Tabletop Pose
Half Upward Plank Pose