More on Mind/Body: Yoga for Runners (and Walkers)
I’ve written before about my new-found love of mind/body exercise and mentioned how it can be a beneficial addition to any training program whether you are a walker or a runner. Lately, yoga has become strongly associated with running for many people from intensely trained athletes to the casual participant in this weekend’s 5K. There are guides and videos available geared specifically towards runners and many people are speaking out about how yoga has helped their running and vice versa.
The truth is the activities are very similar in nature. Ask any runner why they run and many of the answers you’ll get back will be associated with the fact that it is meditative, it allows them to clear their head, it’s invigorating or it relaxes them. These are some of the same reasons exercisers also enjoy yoga.
If you’ve thought about adding some yoga to your training routine and haven’t made the commitment yet here are a few ways that yoga and running, or even high-intensity walking, work hand-in-hand.
Breathe easier. Yoga is strongly focused on breathing exercises which help to relax you and allow your body to get much needed oxygen while it’s working. The breathing techniques you master in yoga can go with you on your run to assist in your ability to meditate and promote endurance.
Improved flexibility. This one is a bit of a no-brainer. You only have to take one look at a yoga pose to know that flexibility is a key ingredient. Being flexible translates to ease of movement. Muscle and joint flexibility, which can be improved through yoga, helps you to move more efficiently during your run. It is even more beneficial when you are climbing those stairs and hills or tackling a trail.
Strength and stamina. It takes a lot of body strength to hold those yoga moves and stamina to keep yourself there for extended periods. This is where running gives back to yoga. The strong legs and core you’ve developed through the miles will allow you to stay strong and keep proper form during yoga.
If you are looking for resources specifically for yoga and running you’ve got quite a few options. Here are some resources for more information and some ideas for how to incorporate yoga into your training program.
Runner’s World – Yoga for Runners
Yoga Journal – Yoga for Runners
AOL Health, That’s Fit – Yoga for Runners -More important than You Think!
IDEA Fitness Association – Yoga for Runners DVD
Photo by lululemon athletica
I love yoga and can’t believe I let my practice slip. A friend teaches a class at a local gym 2x a week. I have no excuse! Thanks for the reminders and links Lori!
It took me forever to get into it and now I have no idea why. It’s so challenging in a very good way. I’ve really gotten into videos and at-home work, but now I’m entertaining the idea of seeking a certification for teaching it. How great to have a friend to take classes from!
I know several yoga instructors who started out as students. There’s several different kinds of training from Yoga Fit to more traditional yoga styles. I’d love to go on a yoga retreat… that’s one of my travel dreams!
As co-creator of the mind body program at exhale, I aee runners taking yoga and core classes all the time and I have noticed that they have less injuries, more flexibility and a better balanced body than people who just run. I would strongly encourage this approach to balamced fitness regimine and lifestyle.