The Downward Facing Dog is a great stretch that targets your hamstrings, calves, shoulders, and upper back – areas that often take a beating from heavy gear and demanding calls. It also helps decompress the spine and open up the posterior chain, improving flexibility and recovery after tough shifts or training sessions. Add this to your cool-down to boost mobility, reduce tightness, and stay fireground-ready.
Downward Facing Dog Instructions
- Begin on all fours with hands shoulder-width apart and knees hip-width apart
- Tuck your toes against the floor as you drive your hips up
- Extend and lengthen your spine as you press into the palms of your hands and the balls of your feet
- Draw shoulder blades back and down as you open up through your chest
- Relax more deeply into the pose with each exhale
For more firefighter-specific workouts, wellness education, and other resources visit firefighterpeakperformance.com
