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I went to a new class this week and the teacher asked me to lock my knees in standing poses. I'm not sure about this as I've not been taught this before. I do have quite double jointed knees (and elbows) and I've spent my life trying not to lock them out so I'm a bit confused. Can anyone shed any light?

I don't think 'locking your knees' is so much about bending them as far as you can, as it is about locking them in place.

when standing up straight & tall, and you are told to 'lock a knee', pull that knee cap up as high as you can (using the muscles above the knee)

that is locking your knee

If you have double jointed knees then it's harder, but you can still do it. When you bend your legs it makes the thigh active anyway, so keep them a little bent but lift the kneecap up too.

If you have double jointed knees you should always try and bend them slightly so that you're working into your muscles, and not relying on the strength on your skeleton to hold you. I'm with Purple and Johnny, engage the thighs and pull the kneecaps up - this will keep your legs firm and your joints safe.

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