Detailed yoga sequence specifically designed to support knee health, with precise instructions and alignment cues.
Yoga Sequence for Knee Health and Stability (45-60 minutes)
Warm-Up (10 minutes):
- Mindful Breathing and Gentle Mobility (5 minutes)
- Seated Sukhasana (Easy Pose)
- Sit on a folded blanket to elevate hips
- Lengthen spine
- Deep diaphragmatic breathing
- Gentle neck and shoulder rolls
- Seated spinal twists (both sides)
- Cat-Cow Flow (5 minutes)
- Start on hands and knees
- Alignment Cues:
- Hands directly under shoulders
- Knees hip-width apart
- Spread fingers wide
- Engage core
- Synchronize breath with movement
- 5-7 slow, controlled repetitions
Standing Sequence (15-20 minutes):
- Modified Sun Salutation (10 minutes)
-
Gentle Standing Mountain Pose
- Feet hip-width apart
- Distribute weight evenly
- Soft micro-bend in knees
- Engage quadriceps slightly
- Roll shoulders back
-
Warrior II Modification
- Shorter stance
- 45-degree knee bend (avoid deep angles)
- Front knee tracks over second toe
- Back foot at 45-degree angle
- Engage core
- Hold 3-5 breaths each side
-
Triangle Pose Variation
- Use block for support
- Hand on block or shin
- Avoid hyperextending knee
- Engage lower abs
- Keep spine long
- Balance Poses (5-10 minutes)
-
Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
- Use wall for support if needed
- Place foot on inner calf or thigh (avoid knee)
- Engage standing leg’s quadriceps
- Focus on a steady point
- Hold 30-45 seconds each side
-
Modified Half Moon Pose
- Use block for hand support
- Lifted leg at 45-degree angle
- Keep standing leg soft
- Engage core for stability
Strength and Stability (10-15 minutes):
- Core Work
-
Boat Pose Variations
- Knees bent initially
- Hands behind thighs
- Lift chest
- Engage lower abs
- Hold 20-30 seconds
- Progressive variations as strength improves
-
Plank Modifications
- Knees-down plank
- Focus on core engagement
- Maintain neutral spine
- 3 sets, 20-30 seconds
Cooling Down (5-10 minutes):
- Restorative Poses
-
Supported Child’s Pose
- Knees wide
- Bolster or folded blanket between legs
- Gentle stretch
-
Reclined Leg Stretch
- Use strap around foot
- Keep opposite leg bent
- Gentle hamstring and calf stretch
- Final Relaxation
- Savasana
- Use bolster under knees
- Complete relaxation
- 5-7 minutes
Key Modifications for Knee Health:
- Always maintain a micro-bend in knees
- Avoid deep lunges or extreme knee angles
- Use props liberally
- Listen to your body
- Stop if pain occurs
Progression Strategy:
- Start with shorter holds
- Use wall/chair support
- Gradually increase duration and complexity
- Consistency is key
Additional Recommendations:
- Practice 3-4 times per week
- Complement with strength training
- Regular professional assessment
Would you like me to elaborate on any specific pose or provide additional guidance on adapting this sequence to your specific knee condition?