Standing Asana · Elementary (Level 2) · Catalog #800770

Bound Squat and Rise Baddha Utkatasana (dynamic)

Squat and Rise with the arms binding. The bind deepens the rotation or the opening considerably and demands shoulder range before the pose itself can be entered at all.

Practice Bound Squat and Rise (Baddha Utkatasana (dynamic)) with Illustrated Cues & Breath Timer Open this posture in Ayurveda & Asana Yoga on iPhone & iPad to build custom dosha sequences and track MET energy burn.
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Bound Squat and Rise (Baddha Utkatasana (dynamic)) — Standing Yoga Posture Illustration

Bound Squat and Rise (Baddha Utkatasana (dynamic)) — Standing posture targeting Quads, Glutes, Calves, Shoulders, Chest · With the breath breath · Forward drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Mildly Increases (+1) Kapha: Strongly Pacifies (-2)
Sanskrit Name
Baddha Utkatasana (dynamic)
Posture Family
Standing
Difficulty
Elementary (Level 2)
Recommended Hold
45 seconds
Breath Pattern
With the breath
Drishti (Gaze)
Forward
Target Muscles
Quads, Glutes, Calves, Shoulders, Chest
Energy Expenditure
4.3 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Bound Squat and Rise

Bound Squat and Rise (Baddha Utkatasana (dynamic)) belongs to the Standing posture family and engages the Quads, Glutes, Calves, Shoulders, Chest at an intensity of approximately 4.3 METs. Squat and Rise with the arms binding. The bind deepens the rotation or the opening considerably and demands shoulder range before the pose itself can be entered at all.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain With the breath throughout the 45-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Forward to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Quads, Glutes, Calves, Shoulders, Chest.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 4 years (48 months).

Ayurvedic Dosha Profile (Vāta, Pitta & Kapha)

In Ayurvedic asana sequencing (Dosha Provenance: modern-synthesis), every posture shifts Vata, Pitta, and Kapha according to its mechanical compression, heat generation, and grounding stability:

  • Vāta Effect: Pacifies (-1) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
  • Pitta Effect: Mildly Increases (+1) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 45 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Strongly Pacifies (-2) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Knee injury
  • Shoulder injury

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