What’s your go-to warm up before you start your favorite workout? And do you cool down and stretch after you hike, bike, run, or do a HIIT class? To enhance your performance and to prevent injury, it’s important to warm up properly as well as allow your system to return to normal after exercise. If you’ve never tried yoga before or after your favorite sports and activities, this week we’ve made it easy for you.
Many cardio activities, like cycling and running, consist of repetitive movements in one direction and in one plane of motion. Sports like golf and tennis are focused on using one side of the body, which over time develops certain muscle groups to the detriment of others. Over time, this creates imbalances in the muscles and joints leading to overuse injuries. Yoga is dynamic and moves your muscles and joints through a full range of motion. A well-rounded yoga warm up is a great way to stay balanced and aligned.
Another awesome benefit of using yoga to warm up is that it emphasizes quieting your mind through Pranayama or breath control techniques. Yoga is all about learning to be present in the moment and directing your attention where you want it to go. Your mental focus and concentration will be activated before you begin your workout, so you’ll be tuned-in and performing at your highest capacity.
Once you’re finished, make sure to cool down properly, especially after a vigorous workout to ensure your body is supple as well as strong. Maybe you walk for the last five minutes of your run to bring your heartrate down but it’s also important to stretch out the muscles you used to avoid soreness, tightness, and fatigue. Yoga can help you recover faster and also open the tight areas that might hinder performance next time.
Think of using yoga pre and post workout as your insurance policy to perform at your ultimate level and ensure you remain injury-free. This week’s classes make it easy to warm up and cool down. Try it!
Yoga for Cross Training - Pre/Post Stretch - Mary Baker
Post Workout Stretch - Lila Whiting
10min Pre/Post Workout Yoga Stretch - Kierstie Dolezal
Pre-Workout Warm Up - Elise Fabricant