Yoga for Athletes

Most athletes know and understand the benefits of cross training, but have you ever considered incorporating yoga as part of your cross training?

Yoga not only has physical benefits like flexibility, balance, coordination and strength, but also offers the mental benefits of breath awareness and concentration – all things athletes can benefit from!

Many athletes don’t take the time to slow down and really focus on listening to and taking care of their bodies, which can lead to overuse and injury - spending time on your yoga mat can help avoid that!

While you don’t need to be flexible to do yoga (a common misconception!), you can definitely expect some stretching in a yoga class.  Tight muscles are more prone to injury, so taking the time to loosen up tight spots can help increase range of motion and avoid painful injuries in the future. 

Yoga also focuses on mindfulness and linking breath with movement, both of which can be taken off the yoga mat to benefit you in your everyday living and your sport.  And if you’re looking for a great way to relax and recovery after an intense training session, a restorative yoga class can help you physically and mentally recover quicker.

I could go on and on about the benefits of yoga for athletes, but the best way for you to understand is to experience them yourself! 

Starting this week you can join me on the mat for Yoga for Athletes on Thursday’s at 7am at Mashpee Fitness – hope to see you there!

Namaste

Danielle

Blog post by Danielle Nardi.