Iyengar Yoga is known for its emphasis on precision and alignment in the execution of postures and breath control. Backbends, a vital component of this practice, are celebrated for their ability to invigorate and strengthen. This blog introduces our flagship two-part online course dedicated to advancing your skills in Iyengar Yoga backbends. Designed for everyone from intermediate enthusiasts eager to deepen their practice to advanced practitioners seeking to refine their techniques, this course provides structured guidance to enhance one of yoga’s most dynamic asana groups.
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Part One: Intermediate Classes
Overview: The first part of the course consists of 13 on-demand videos, each meticulously designed to build the foundational skills necessary for effective backbending. From understanding basic techniques to practicing key asanas like Salabhasana and Urdhva Mukha Svanasana, these classes aim to strengthen your practice, improve posture, and enhance vitality. The grid images below display the poses and sequences included in each video session.
Class Descriptions:


Class 1: Foundations in Backbends
Introduces preliminary backbends and complementary poses to build strength and boost energy.

Class 2: Supported Backbends
Focuses on re-energising your practice with chest-opening chair backbends.

Class 3: Lift and Lengthen
Targets difficulties in Urdhva Dhanurasana, enhancing arm and shoulder positioning.

Class 4: Expanding Techniques
Explores “baby” backbends and variations for both new and experienced practitioners.

Class 5: Deepening Ustrasana
Explores “baby” backbends and variations for both new and experienced practitioners.


Class 6: Extended Backbends
Features an extended sequence of intermediate backbends, integrating inversions to form a complete practice.

Class 7: Troubleshooting Urdhva Dhanurasana
Focuses on overcoming common challenges in Urdhva Dhanurasana through targeted techniques.

Class 8: Backbends: The Basics
Revisits foundational backbends, perfect for beginners and those needing a refresher.

Class 9: Salabhasana Focus
Uses Salabhasana to enhance energy and correct posture, integrating it with complementary poses.

Class 10: Energising Backbends
Combines gentle and energising backbends, focusing on boosting vitality and flexibility.

Class 11: Preliminary Backbends
Covers a wide array of preliminary backbends, aiming to solidify foundational skills.

Class 12: Fundamental Techniques
Deepens understanding of backbend basics, ideal for enhancing technique and alignment.

Class 13: Intermediate Backbends Review
Consolidates the skills learned with a focus on intermediate level asanas and transitions.
Explore a World of Online Yoga. Unlimited Access to All Classes and Courses.
Try it Free for 14 days. Cancel Anytime.
Part Two: Advanced Classes
Overview: Building upon the foundations set in the first part, the second part comprises 17 advanced classes that delve into more complex backbends and the strategic use of props for deeper engagement and alignment.
Class Descriptions:

Class 1: Advanced Urdhva Dhanurasana
Offers variations to enhance shoulder mobility and back flexibility.

Class 2: Explore Viparita Dandasana
Utilises chair backbends to deepen the understanding and performance of this challenging pose.

Class 3: Upper Back and Shoulders
A focus on opening the thoracic spine and alleviating stiffness through advanced postures.

Class 4: Classical Sequence Integration
Combines backbends with inversions for a holistic practice.

Class 5: Chair Backbends for Depth
Uses chairs to explore deeper backbends while supporting the spine and shoulders.

Class 6: Supported Backbends for Ease
Offers a series of supported backbends that focus on gentle openings and ease of practice.

Class 7: Shoulder Mobility in Urdhva Dhanurasana
Enhances shoulder flexibility to improve overall backbend performance.

Class 8: Focused Urdhva Mukha Svanasana
Deepens understanding of Upward Facing Dog through detailed technique refinement.

Class 9: Chair Backbends Advanced Techniques
Explores advanced chair backbends, enhancing the complexity and depth of practice.

Class 10: Unlocking the Upper Back
Targets the upper back and shoulders to improve flexibility and reduce tension.

Class 11: Vrschikasana Detailed Progression
Offers a step-by-step guide to practicing Scorpion Pose, from basics to advanced variations.

Class 12: Deepening Dwi Pada Viparita Dandasana
Focuses on advanced variations and techniques in chair backbends.

Class 13: Express Backbends
Condenses a variety of backbends into a short, intensive practice session.

Class 14: Chair Backbends for Flexibility
Enhances flexibility using chair backbends, with a focus on incremental improvements.

Class 15: Dynamic Backbends with Props
Uses props to support dynamic backbending sequences, enhancing strength and flexibility.

Class 16: Integrative Backbend Practice
Combines various backbend techniques into a cohesive practice session.

Class 17: Advanced Backbend Flow
A fluid sequence of advanced backbends designed to challenge and invigorate.
Benefits of the Iyengar Yoga Backbends Course
This course not only improves your physical health by enhancing spinal flexibility and strength but also offers mental and emotional benefits. Regular practice of backbends can invigorate the nervous system, boost energy levels, and improve overall wellbeing. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of body mechanics, learn how to manage and alleviate pain through proper alignment, and experience a profound sense of accomplishment.
Take Your Yoga to the Next Level
Ready to take your backbend practice to the next level? Join us today! Gain access to this course and all other classes and courses on Yoga Selection.
Explore a World of Online Yoga. Unlimited Access to All Classes and Courses.
Try it Free for 14 days. Cancel Anytime.
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