Mobility · Yoga
Upward Salute Pose
Upward Salute Pose is a standing yoga posture with both arms reaching overhead. It practices shoulder mobility and upright posture while gently engaging your shoulders and core.
- Beginner
- Low injury risk
- No rest timer
How to do it
- Stand with your feet hip-width apart, arms resting at your sides.
- Raise your arms overhead with your palms facing each other.
- Hold the overhead reach with your elbows straight and your torso upright.
- Lower your arms back to your sides to finish.
Form cues
- Breathe slowly and evenly.
- Keep your knees soft.
- Reach through your fingertips.
- Keep weight even across both feet.
Common mistakes
- Arching your lower backKeep your lower ribs over your pelvis rather than lifting your chest to gain extra reach.
- Pulling your shoulders downLet your shoulder blades rotate upward naturally as your arms rise.
- Throwing your head backKeep your gaze forward with your chin level.
Safety
Forcing your arms beyond your comfortable range can irritate your shoulders. Leaning backward to compensate can strain your lower back.
- Move into and out of the pose slowly rather than swinging your arms.
- Use a lower arm position if reaching fully overhead causes pinching or pain.
If you have an ongoing shoulder or neck problem, ask a physiotherapist about a comfortable overhead range before practicing.
Muscles worked
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
Equipment
- Yoga Mat (optional)
Sets and reps
- Sets
- 2–3
- Target
- 15–30 seconds
- Rest
- No rest timer
Start with shorter holds until you can maintain the position comfortably.