This forward bend is more intense in the hamstrings than uttanasana because the position of the back leg directs more of the flexion. into the hip joint, and spinal flexibility is less of an issue.

Although the back leg is positioned with the leg turned out, the action of the musci.es is toward internal rotation, to bring the pelvis into alignment (but not too much; can be overdone). The back foot also moves towards supination, to counter the inner rolling of the arch of the foot.