Flexibility is an important yet often overlooked component of a well-rounded fitness routine, especially for those who tend to gravitate to strength-based workouts. Adequate range of motion around the joints is imperative to perform loaded movement patterns safely and effectively using strength-training tools such as barbells and dumbbells. In addition to enhancing performance in the…
Yoga is great for improving flexibility, but it also builds a strong and calm mind. For these reasons, it’s no surprise that athletes are increasingly turning to yoga to round out their training. In fact, many professional athletes, including NBA stars LeBron James and Kevin Love and Seattle Seahawks Quarterback Russell Wilson, have publicly discussed…
Print A Copy Download and print “Yoga Study” Exercise enthusiasts are flocking to yoga studios in hopes of reaping the benefits of improved mind-body connection, improved muscle tone and strength, better balance and increased flexibility. But just how beneficial is the 5,000 year old practice of Hatha yoga? Â
Most fitness professionals today agree that incorporating yoga into a training program can yield many benefits. The controversy, however, comes when we start to discuss certain poses, or asanas, and their direct effects on the human body. There are times when clients, due to past injuries or flexibility issues, may not be able to reach…
Do you have clients that cringe at the thought of stretching at the end of a session or students that constantly cut out of class before the cool-down? For some, it’s a question of perceived lack of time. For others, the thought of spending time stretching doesn’t sound exciting or sexy, despite the fact that…
Yoga is an ideal form of exercise to open tight and stiff hips. Tight hips typically result from sedentary lifestyles or, conversely, from overuse during sports and other activities. Â Although the cause varies, people typically experience tightness in one or more areas of the hip. The poses described below focus on specific areas of the…
With the multitude of research-supported benefits of yoga—from improved flexibility and balance to reduced stress and improved mood—it’s not surprising so many people are eager to roll out their mats and experience a physical yoga practice for the first time. For those seeking to establish a personal practice at home, consider exploring a few foundational…
Prolonged periods of sitting can wreak havoc on your health. Not only is it important to add more physical activity of any kind to one’s day to minimize periods of uninterrupted sedentary behavior, but it’s also crucial to incorporate specific movements designed to address the muscular imbalances and associated postural deviations often caused by spending…
Restorative yoga is a gentle form of yoga that involves holding positions for longer periods of time. This type of yoga uses props to support the body during passive stretches. Most positions are seated, supine or prone, which reinforces a relaxed state and helps reduce stress. Â Â Complete these poses while using traditional yoga props…
Yoga has a way of calming the nervous system. Through deep breathing, long stretches and relaxing postures, yoga can help induce a good night’s sleep so you feel rested and ready for the day that lies ahead. This simple yoga sequence is easy to do right before bed. Gather a pillow or two and find…