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Pigeon

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Pigeon.

EasyGlutesHamstrings

About this exercise

The pigeon hip stretch is a highly effective yoga-inspired pose designed to deeply stretch the hips, glutes, and lower back. It targets the piriformis muscle and other deep hip rotators, making it a go-to stretch for alleviating tightness and improving hip flexibility. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals who sit for long periods, runners, and athletes who need to loosen up their hips for better performance and injury prevention.

Benefits

  1. Enhances Hip Flexibility: Stretches the hip flexors, glutes, and deep rotator muscles.
  2. Reduces Lower Back Pain: Eases tension in the hips and lower back caused by tightness.
  3. Improves Posture and Alignment: Supports proper spinal and pelvic alignment by loosening tight hip muscles.
  4. Relieves Stress and Tension: Encourages deep relaxation and mindful breathing.
  5. Prevents Injuries: Reduces the risk of hip and lower-body injuries, especially for runners and athletes.

How to Perform

  • Start in a tabletop position with hands under shoulders and knees under hips.
  • Slide your right knee forward toward your right wrist, angling the shin so the right ankle moves toward the left wrist (as flexibility allows).
  • Extend your left leg straight behind you, keeping the top of your foot flat on the floor.
  • Square your hips to the floor, ensuring they are level.
  • Slowly lower your upper body, placing your hands or forearms on the mat for support.
  • Rest your forehead on the mat for a deeper stretch (optional).
  • Hold the stretch for 20–30 seconds, breathing deeply and relaxing into the stretch.
  • Feel a deep stretch in the front hip and glute.
  • Return to the starting position and repeat on the other side.

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesHamstrings
Secondary
QuadricepsLower back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Pigeon

The Pigeon is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.