Our knees are a vulnerable joint in the body and stability around the knees is crucial when practicing yoga and participating in our daily activities such as walking, getting in and out of a seated position and climbing stairs. The knee is a hinge joint, it only moves in two directions, flexion (bent) and extension (straight). Many injuries occur when the knee is impacted from the side, then the knee twists which puts stress on the meniscus, or the ligaments that hold the knee together. In yoga we look at variations to help you with taking some of the pressure off the knee. In this picture we used an extra mat and wedge for the props, and this allow the quadriceps muscles to work a bit more to hold you in the position.
More info about the knee: It has 16 muscles that influence its mechanics and function. Some of the muscles that cross the knee also influence the hip, and others influence the ankle. It's important to consider both your hip and your ankle alignment during yoga because of the direct relationship both have on proper knee function. The most relevant muscles to consider for knee stability are those that cross the knee: the quadricep group and the hamstrings. The gluteals (buttocks) and the peroneal muscles (ankle evertors) are also relevant due to the effect they have on hip and ankle alignment. Find out more when you join us for yoga, as we connect to our truly amazing bodies and keep our practice safe.