Primary
Stretching
Secondary
Groin, Inner Thighs, Hips
Equipment
Bodyweight
Difficulty
Beginner
Type
Isometric
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The reclined butterfly, known in yoga as Supta Baddha Konasana, is a restorative pose that opens the inner thighs and hips while lying on your back. This passive position allows complete relaxation while gravity gently stretches the adductors. The supine position also opens the chest and promotes deep breathing.
When to use it
Include in your bedtime routine or post-workout recovery.
Who it's for
Anyone seeking relaxation, those with hip tightness, and people using restorative yoga practices.
Let your knees fall naturally—there is no need to push them toward the floor. If you feel strain in your knees or groin, place blocks or pillows under your thighs for support. Focus on slow, diaphragmatic breathing and let each exhale deepen the relaxation.
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Also targets: Groin, Inner Thighs, Hips
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Lie flat on your back.
Bring soles of feet together.
Let knees fall out to sides.
Place arms comfortably at sides.
Relax and breathe deeply.
Hold position while relaxing completely.
Very relaxing position.
Use props under knees if needed.
Let gravity do the work.
Hold 2-3 minutes or longer as part of a restorative practice, bedtime routine, or post-workout recovery. This stretch works well combined with supported child pose and supine twists for a complete relaxation sequence.
Forcing knees all the way to the floor.
Letting your knees drift away from the intended line during the Reclined Butterfly changes how force moves through the exercise. Keep each knee tracking in line with the foot as you move.
Arching the lower back excessively.
Changing your back position during the Reclined Butterfly can alter the movement and make the load harder to control. Brace your midsection and keep the torso position called for by the exercise.
Holding tension in the body rather than relaxing.
Isometric holds like the Reclined Butterfly build strength at specific joint angles. This mistake changes the angle and reduces how hard your Adductors has to work. Lock into position and hold it.
Anyone seeking relaxation, those with hip tightness, and people using restorative yoga practices.
Lower reps with heavier weight builds raw strength. Your muscles and nervous system adapt to handle more load over time. This range is best for strength-focused goals.
This rep range keeps your muscles under tension long enough to trigger growth. Most people see the best muscle-building results in this zone. It balances strength and muscle size.
Higher reps with lighter weight builds muscular endurance and improves conditioning. This range is good for joint health and building work capacity.
General guideline: Hold for 2-3 minutes.
This is one example of how Reclined Butterfly could sit inside a complete workout. Your plan may use different movements after Ely checks your assessment.
Sample workout
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Reclined Butterfly
The Reclined Butterfly primarily targets the Adductors, making it an effective exercise for stretching development. Secondary muscles worked during the Reclined Butterfly include Hip flexors, providing additional training stimulus. Stabilizer muscles engaged include Core, Supporting limbs.
Yes, the Reclined Butterfly is an excellent choice for beginners due to its straightforward movement pattern and lower technical demands. Anyone seeking relaxation, those with hip tightness, and people using restorative yoga practices. Start with lighter weights to master proper form before progressing.
For the Reclined Butterfly, the recommended approach depends on your goals. Hold for 2-3 minutes. For strength, use 60 sec holds. For muscle growth, perform 90 sec holds. For endurance, complete 2-3 min holds.
Yes, the Reclined Butterfly can be done at home with no equipment. It requires minimal space and is a great option for home workouts targeting stretching.
Good alternatives to the Reclined Butterfly include: Butterfly Stretch, Happy Baby Pose, Frog Stretch. These exercises target similar muscle groups as the Reclined Butterfly and can be used as substitutes based on your equipment availability, gym setup, or training preferences.