Cobra Stretch - Martial Arts Flexibility Exercise

This page provides details for the Cobra Stretch (or Cobra Pose). This popular stretch is used by martial arts students in order to loosen their lower back, shoulders, stomach, etc. A more advanced variation of this stretch is the Upward Facing Dog where you are off the ground versus lying on the floor.

All stretches should be supervised by a trained instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. For additional martial arts stretches targeting other areas of the body, please visit the main Martial Arts Stretching or Yoga for Martial Arts sections.

Section supported by stretching books

Instructions - How To Do A Cobra Stretch

• Lie flat on the ground (face down)
• Push up with your hands while leaving your legs on the ground
• Bend at the waist and slowly raise your chest off the ground until you reach a comfortable stretch
• While raising your chest, try to push your hips down towards the ground