Normally, I cross train with Hot Yoga (performed under hot and humid conditions). Why choose hot yoga? Yoga and running seem like opposite ends of the spectrum as far as physical activity go, and this is true.Yet, practicing yoga in conjunction with running has many benefits.
Runners can use yoga to balance strength, increase range of motion, and train the body and mind. Yoga teaches you how to use your breath with yoga poses. "The eventual result is that your body, mind, and breath are integrated in all actions." This can offset the effects of the runner's pavement pounding workouts. Yoga also helps remind you that each day is a new day, and unique. What your body was able to do yesterday may not translate into today. This is also true in running.
Yoga maintains a runners since of well-being. It helps to reduce tension and promote relaxation. This is vital to insuring a injury free runner. Tension in the muscles can create injury through overuse. But through yoga and breath a runner can learn to reduce or relieve this tension their muscles.
I practice Yoga at Anchorage Yoga. The studio is GREAT and the instructors are amazing. I truly believe it was my yoga practice that was a huge factor in completing my marathon. Through understanding of your breath and body, you can achieve amazing goals. If you get the chance to check them out, I highly recommend it (no...they have no clue I am mentioning them in my blog, and no I am not getting any compensation from them). The studio is addicting and once you go, I think you'll understand why I recommend them.
Do you cross train? What other exercises do you use? Do you find them beneficial to your running?
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