If you’re preparing for your boudoir session, you’ve probably thought about outfits, hair, and makeup – but have you thought about how your body moves? A boudoir shoot isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good in your body and expressing confidence in your poses.
The key to achieving those sultry, effortless-looking arches and curves? Flexibility, core strength, and mobility.
I’ve put together some simple exercises, stretches, and yoga poses to help you feel more fluid, strong, and confident when it’s time to step in front of the camera.
1. Back Flexibility & Arching
Many of the most stunning boudoir poses involve arching your back, elongating your torso, and opening your chest. To get that beautiful curve without strain, work on your spinal flexibility and mobility.
Backbend Stretch (Bridge or Wheel Pose)
- Lie on your back with feet hip-width apart and knees bent.
- Lift your hips up (for a bridge pose) or push up onto your hands for a full wheel pose.
- Hold for 10-20 seconds, keeping your shoulders open.
Cat-Cow Stretch
- Start in a tabletop position (on hands and knees).
- Inhale, arch your back, lifting your head and tailbone (Cow).
- Exhale, round your back, tucking your chin (Cat).
- Repeat slowly for 1-2 minutes.
Cobra or Upward Dog Pose
- Lie on your stomach, hands under shoulders.
- Press up, straightening your arms while keeping your hips down.
- Hold for 15-30 seconds to open up your chest and spine.
2. Neck & Shoulder Mobility
A graceful, elongated neck makes a huge difference in boudoir poses. Avoid stiffness by keeping your neck loose and flexible.
Neck Tilts & Rolls
- Slowly tilt your head side to side, forward, and back.
- Do slow, controlled neck rolls in both directions.
- Hold each stretch for 10-15 seconds.
Shoulder Rolls & Openers
- Roll your shoulders forward and backward 10 times.
- Clasp your hands behind your back, pull down, and open your chest.
3. Core Strength for Controlled Movements
Your core is EVERYTHING in boudoir posing. A strong core helps with balance, arching, and fluid movements.
Pelvic Tilts & Bridges
- Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat.
- Tuck your pelvis under, then slowly lift your hips into a bridge.
- Lower down with control. Repeat 10-15 times.
Planks & Side Planks
- Hold a standard plank for 30-60 seconds.
- Switch to a side plank for oblique strength and balance.
Leg Raises & Bicycle Crunches
- Engage your lower abs by lifting your legs straight up and slowly lowering them.
- Add bicycle crunches for an extra burn.
4. Hips & Leg Flexibility for Natural Posing
Many boudoir poses require open hips and flexible legs. These stretches will help with those deep bends and long, elegant lines.
Deep Lunges & Hip Openers
- Step one foot forward, lower into a lunge, and push your hips forward.
- Hold for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides.
Butterfly Stretch
- Sit with the soles of your feet together, knees out.
- Gently press your knees toward the floor for a deep hip stretch.
Seated Forward Fold
- Sit with legs straight and reach toward your toes.
- Keep your back straight as you stretch your hamstrings.
Putting It All Together
Practice these exercises a few times a week leading up to your session, and you’ll notice a big difference in how your body moves and feels. You’ll be able to arch deeper, hold poses longer, and exude even more confidence in front of the camera.
And don’t worry during your session, I’ll guide you through all the best angles and positions. But a little prep work will make posing feel effortless, natural, and even more powerful.
See you in the studio, gorgeous!
Ready to book your boudoir session? Contact me here!
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