I’ve noticed that if I try to keep my legs straight in a v or pike and lower back just rounds out. Is it okay to have my legs bent a little until I can keep my back straight?

And is there anything in particular that I can do that will help me keep a straight back in these positions?

It's totally normal to round the back when doing pike. The only time you want to try and stick the butt out in pike is if your going for a nice hamstring stretch. Otherwise, it's normal. Look at this tutorial for the Hip Hold [www.studioveena.com]

If you find your REALLY rounded, then stretching and strengthening the core and hamstrings will help. Try these flowmotion stretch's

[www.studioveena.com]

[www.studioveena.com]

[www.studioveena.com]

Ah thank you! 😊