Doing different yoga wheel positions can be very intimidating at first. However, with beginner-friendly poses, you can slowly improve your flexibility and perform more challenging poses.

So, grab your exercise mat, put on your best yoga gear, and try these simple yoga wheel positions!

1. Yoga Wheel Child’s Pose

The classic child’s pose gently stretches your hips, thighs, and lower back. However, with a yoga wheel, this position can deepen the stretch in your upper body, targeting tight shoulders, arms, and chest.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Kneel on the yoga mat. Sit back on your heel with your big toes touching and knees hip-width apart.
  • Position the yoga wheel in front, then place your hands on top.
  • Lean your chest forward and allow the yoga wheel to roll away from your body.
  • Stop once your belly comfortably rests on your thighs.
  • Relax your head and neck, and hold this yoga wheel position for 5 to 10 breaths.

2. Yoga Wheel Reclined Pose

Doing the reclined position with a yoga wheel relieves back tension or pain. It stretches your upper back and inner thighs. You can also do several variations of this pose based on your comfort level.

To start:

  • Sit tall on your yoga mat with your legs crossed.
  • Position the yoga wheel behind you, keeping it aligned with your spine.
  • Place your hands on your thighs or position your arms above your head. You can also stretch your arms to the back.
  • Inhale and exhale as you lean back onto the yoga wheel, slowly extending your spine. Gently sink into the pose to deepen the stretch in your inner thighs.
  • Hold this pose for about ten breaths before inhaling and returning to the starting position.

3. Yoga Wheel Half Pyramid Pose

The half pyramid pose is another good yoga wheel position, especially if you want to target tight hamstrings and improve mobility.

Follow these steps:

  • Kneel on one knee on the yoga mat. Bend the other knee at a 90-degree angle, keeping the foot flat on the floor and your chest tall.
  • Position the yoga wheel under the thigh of your front leg. Lift your front leg so that your calf is resting on top of the wheel.
  • Roll the wheel forward, extending your front leg fully. Lean your upper body to let your hands hold the wheel or join your palms in a prayer-like position for balance.
  • Hold this position for five breaths before repeating it two to three more times. Then, do the same thing to the other leg.

4. Yoga Wheel Lizard Lunge

Yoga lunges stretch the quads and hip flexors and strengthen the lower body. Doing the lizard lunge with a yoga wheel deepens the stretch and trains your balancing ability, especially as you keep your stretched back leg aligned with your chest.

Here’s how to start:

  • Begin in the same kneeling position described in the half-pyramid pose above.
  • Next, lift your back foot and position the yoga wheel underneath, supporting your ankle.
  • Inhale and exhale as you lean forward, placing your hands under your shoulders.
  • Inhale and exhale as you slowly roll the wheel away from your body and extend your back leg.
  • Hold this position for five breaths before releasing and doing the same to the other leg.
yoga-wheel-lizard-lunge-position

5. Yoga Wheel Reclined Side Stretch Pose

This yoga wheel position combines a side bend and stretch. It targets your middle and upper back plus the psoas, the deepest muscle of your core.

Try this beginner pose by following these steps:

  • Sit down on the mat with the yoga wheel resting on the side of your hips.
  • Stretch your legs to the side, then bring your arms over the wheel.
  • Inhale and bring the sides of your hips and chest over the wheel. Do this gently to keep the wheel steady. Also, adjust your body so the wheel is just below the side of your rib cage.
  • Once you feel comfortable, you can move your head closer to the ground, extending your legs more.
  • Hold this position for about six breaths. To release, bend your legs, hold the wheel, and gently sit up. Do the same procedure on the other side.
yoga-wheel-side-stretch-position

More Tips for Yoga Wheel Beginners

Apply these other valuable tips and reminders as you start mastering different yoga wheel positions:

  • Build a strong yoga foundation by starting with the basics and doing poses you are comfortable with.
  • Yoga should not be painful or uncomfortable, so listen to your body and don’t force it.
  • Avoid overstretching to protect yourself from injury. Also, don’t forget to warm up.
  • Apply every safety precaution possible: wear the right clothes, use a yoga mat, and pick a spacious floor area without obstructions.
  • Practice slowly but regularly. Remember that consistency is essential in yoga to earn its benefits.

It’s also best to pick a durable yoga wheel set to do more poses safely and comfortably. Check out our 3-Pack Lotus Wheel Review to learn more.