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Downward Dog Sprint

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Downward Dog Sprint.

MediumCoreFront shoulders

About this exercise

The downward dog sprint is a dynamic full-body exercise that begins in the downward dog yoga position and involves rapidly driving each knee toward the chest in an alternating sprinting motion. It challenges the core, shoulders, and hip flexors while elevating the heart rate.

How to Perform

  • Start in a downward dog position with hips raised, hands flat on the floor and feet hip-width apart forming an inverted V shape
  • Keep your arms straight and core braced throughout the movement
  • Drive your right knee rapidly toward your chest, then explosively extend it back to the starting position
  • Immediately drive your left knee toward your chest in the same manner
  • Continue alternating legs in a sprinting rhythm while maintaining the elevated hip position
  • Keep your head neutral and avoid letting your hips drop during the movement
  • Breathe steadily and maintain a consistent pace for the duration of the set

Muscle Activation

Primary
CoreFront shoulders
Secondary
QuadricepsHamstrings

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Downward Dog Sprint

The Downward Dog Sprint 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.