The purpose of this study was to compare sagittal and frontal wrist ranges of motion (ROM) and vertical wrist joint forces in plank and downward dog (DD) positions between novice and experienced yoga participants. Three sets of three plank to DD trials were performed. All data were collected using Qualisys 3D Motion Capture and force plates. Experienced participants illustrated significantly greater (p = 0.03) frontal plane wrist ROM mean values from plank to DD pose when compared to novice participants. Additionally, experienced participants displayed significantly greater (p = 0.02) vertical wrist force mean values in plank position when compared to novice participants.

Findings suggest that experienced yoga participants may be at greater risk for enduring radial and/or ulnar-sided wrist musculoskeletal injuries than novice participants when performing plank position. Potential injury risk factors include increased wrist ROM in frontal plane deviation and longitudinal axis loading of the wrist in wrist hyperextension.