Commands with reflexive verbs

When leading a workout session, you use the imperative form to give instructions. The imperative is the base form of the verb, often formed by dropping the infinitive's final -a.

Close your eyes and breathe in.
Blunda och andas in.

Commands with Reflexive Verbs

Reflexive verbs describe actions you perform on yourself and always require a reflexive pronoun. To give a direct command to a single person, use the imperative verb followed immediately by the pronoun dig (yourself).

Sit down on the mat and breathe in!
Sätt dig på mattan och andas in!
Lie down on your back and breathe out.
Lägg dig på ryggen och andas ut.

Moving and Stretching

Many verbs related to moving your body are reflexive in Swedish. Notice that in negative commands, inte comes after the reflexive pronoun.

Turn towards the mirror.
Vänd dig mot spegeln.
Do not stand up too fast!
Res dig inte för fort!
Stretch and look up.
Sträck på dig och titta upp.

Step-by-Step Instructions

You can easily combine reflexive commands with regular imperatives or references to body parts—like the hip (höften) or heel (hälen)—to guide a full routine.

Stand up and turn towards the door.
Res dig och vänd dig mot dörren.
Touch your heel with your hand and lift your hip.
Rör vid hälen med handen och lyft höften.