Which pose is Halfway Lift called in this sequence?

• A. Uttanasana
• B. Adho Mukha Svanasana
• C. Ardha Chandrasana
• D. Ardha Uttanasana

Answer: (D)

The idea being tested is the moment when the spine lengthens and the chest lifts halfway up from a fold, creating a long, flat back. This is Ardha Uttanasana. On an inhale from the forward fold, you straighten the spine by lifting the chest forward, keeping a soft bend in the knees, and placing the hands on the shins or fingertips on the floor. The gaze remains forward and the shoulders stay down, so you feel length through the crown of the head and the pelvis stays stacked over the feet. This position prepares you for the next movement, such as stepping into a plank or going into a backbend.

Uttanasana is the full forward fold, where the torso folds toward the legs with the spine rounded and the head toward the knees. Adho Mukha Svanasana is Downward Facing Dog, an inverted V with hips lifted. Ardha Chandrasana is Half Moon Pose, a standing balance with chest open to the side. These are different shapes and goals than the halfway lift.