This is a mid-level forward bend which is practiced by spreading the legs wide and then bending forward. Prasarita Padottanasana is a good preparatory pose for advanced inversions like the Mayurasana and Sirsasana.
Forward Bend
Wide-Angle Seated Forward Bend (Upavistha Konasana)
An excellent asana to prepare for all the advanced wide-legged standing or seated poses, Upavistha Konasana stretches the legs while simultaneously strengthening the back muscles.
Standing Split (Urdhva Prasarita Eka Padasana)
This asana is very effective for weight loss. It tones and strengthens the hamstrings, glutes, quads, thighs, calf muscles, and ankles. It also engages the lower back, abdomen, chest, and diaphragm, instilling spinal flexibility, and agility.
Standing Half Forward Bend (Ardha Uttanasana)
This asana lengthens the spine making it more strong and flexible. It works on the core muscles, hamstrings, glutes, thighs, calves, ankles, and the neck muscles as well. It can be used as an effective warm-up exercise to stretch the spine, hamstrings, glutes, thighs, and calf muscles.
Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)
This asana is beneficial for reducing stress, anxiety, and mental agitation. It instills a sense of calm and coolness into the system. Uttanasana tones and strengthens the hamstrings, calves, glutes, and of course, the spine.