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- Increased range of motion in all joints. Most athletic activities only move joints in one direction. Running for example only moves the hips into flexion (some extension is involved but not to its full capacity). Bicycling is similar. A well rounded Yoga practice moves the joints in all directions enabling full range of motion of all joints which reduces the chance of injury.
- Increased balance. Balance is an often overlooked area by many athletes. Many Yoga poses use balance which can play a major role in correcting muscle imbalances allowing muscles to be used in whole body movements opposed to single joint movements that most sports require.
- Great cross training activity. Yoga is low impact, but still offers cardiovascular and strengthening benefits, which makes it a perfect activity for cross training.
- Increased flexibility throughout the body which helps decrease chances of injury.
- Corrects muscle imbalances. Most sports especially running involve repetitive actions that tighten and strengthen certain muscles while shortening and weakening opposing muscle. The long holds of certain Yoga poses helps to strengthen the muscles that have been underused and to lengthen the muscles that have been shortened by over stimulation.
- Increased core strength. The slow isometric movements in Yoga help build core strength. Yoga incorporates the full body which helps strengthen the core in connection to gross movements of the rest of the body.
- Increased lung capacity. The focus on full Yogic breathing increases lung capacity which will transfer to your sport.
- Increased relaxation. Focus on breathing and body awareness helps us to get out of our heads and into our bodies. With regular practice, this also transfers into our daily lives and athletic activities.
- Increased mind body awareness. The focus on stilling the mind, focusing on breathing and the body produces increased concentration and increases our ability to handle stress.
- It is PRACTICE. Yoga is not competitive. An important part of practicing Yoga is the concept of Ahimsa (non-harming). Most athletic events involve pushing to reach a goal. Yoga on the other hand offers a setting where can take the time to listen to your body and not feel pressured to be at a certain level (while still receiving the mental and physical benefits of exercise).
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