Seated vs standing forward fold

[Kissisforpirate]

Why is seated forward fold so haarrrdddd? I can do standing forward fold relatively easily but can barely get anywhere doing the seated version.
Is the difference just down to gravity or does each pose work different muscle groups?

I spent a long time thinking I was just the wrong shape for seated forward fold, I just couldn't bend! A few months later and it's one of my favourite positions. Gradually you'll get there, bit by bit.

Thanks! I'm better than i was but I'm still so tight.

Do you sit on a block? I find it much easier.

No. But i suppose i could sit on a fat book.

Is it wide angled seated forward fold you have problems with?

I don't really know the names. I've tried my legs crossed and legs straight out.

If your legs are together straight out use a belt on your feet to help with the stretch. If your legs are wide then your pelvis may tilt backwards and not forwards. Sitting on a block or folded blanket will help with this.

When seated with legs extended forward, move flesh (bum) backwards to really sit on your bones. Yes, you can do this even if you are very slim

Inhale while reaching up, then exhale as you bend forward over your legs. If your fingers don't touch your feet, pass a belt under them UBS slowly pull.

Now extend forward from the top of your head with every inhale and let of the tension and melt over your legs with every exhale.

Make sure you're hinging forward from the hips, rather than rounding your upper back and dropping your shoulders to try to get your head to your legs.Think forward, not down. Keeping your chin lifted as you bend forward can help to keep your chest open and back straight.

"UBS"? I meant and.

Try using some folded up blankets and Pillows as a prop to sink forward into

Does it hurt when you do a standing forward fold? It may be because you have gravity and the upper body on your side that's it's easier to force your body into it than when seated? I'd suggest taking more time to warm up the ham strings - lots of Sun salutes followed by a set of standing poses where you hold the poses for a longer amount of breaths each time e.g. Padangusthasana (Big Toe forward fold), for 3 breaths, Padahastasana (Hand around foot forward fold) for 4 breaths, Half forward fold for 5 breaths and forward fold for 6 then take it to the floor and complete the first 2 but in decline with a strap. So Padangusthasana and then Pada but one leg at a time - check this link out www.yogajournal.com/poses/reclining-big-toe-pose then finish with the grand finale of the seated forward fold. Using blocks and mats as suggested above will also be a good assist. But don't force it- listen to the body - everyone is different and it may be that your body isn't built for a seated forward. Don't do a Kino Macgregor and pop your hip out :-(

Decline = should have been recline !!