Do Yoga and Running Complement Each Other?
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Time to read 4 min
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Time to read 4 min
Introduction
Combining yoga and running can reap great rewards, offering a number of benefits that complement each other well. When yoga and running are mixed, they work together to boost physical fitness and overall wellbeing, meaning each practice makes you better at the other.By incorporating yoga into your running routine thoughtfully, you can start a journey towards feeling healthier and more resilient. Here’s how it works:
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1. Improved Flexibility And Movement
Running can tighten leg and hip muscles over time. Yoga's variety of poses gently stretch these muscles, making them more flexible and mobile, helping to improve running form and lowering the risk of injuries. Therefore, yoga and running together can enhance your physical performance.
"Yoga does not just change the way we see things, it transforms the person who sees."
2. Stronger Core Stability
A strong core is important for runners to support the spine and maintain good posture. Yoga's focus on core exercises helps strengthen these muscles, leading to better balance and efficiency while running. This synergy between yoga and running ensures a well-rounded fitness regime.
3. Preventing Injuries
Yoga's focus on flexibility, strength, and body awareness can help prevent common running injuries. By promoting balanced muscle development and mindful movement, yoga reduces the risk of strains or imbalances from intense running routines. Incorporating yoga and running into your exercise routine is a proactive way to safeguard your body.
4. Reduced Stress
Running can be mentally taxing, but one of the many benefits of yoga are the breathing exercises and meditation that promote relaxation. You may not have thought about it, but this work can help reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing, aiding in faster recovery after runs. Therefore, the combination of yoga and running can contribute to both mental and physical health.
"The yoga pose you avoid the most you need the most."
1. Finding A Balance
It's important to balance yoga and running in your routine. Don't push yourself too hard in either one and adjust your schedule to fit your needs and abilities.
2. Plan Your Scedule
If you're doing both yoga and running in one day, consider running before longer yoga sessions to avoid fatigue that might adversely impact your running technique. Properly scheduling yoga and running sessions ensures you get the most out of both practices.
3. Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to your body's signals and take rest days when needed. Avoid yoga poses that worsen any existing injuries or discomfort. Balancing yoga and running well can lead to better long-term results.
Conclusion
Combining yoga and running offers numerous benefits, enhancing both physical and mental aspects of your fitness journey. So if you’re an avid runner looking to look after your muscles, or a yogi looking to incorporate more cardio into your exercise and wellness routine, why not give integrating yoga and running a go?
If you’re wondering what type of yoga is best, Hannah Barrett, an online yoga teacher and founder of Happy Yoga, suggests Hatha, or a slower vinyasa class. You can read more of her recommendations in this Runner’s World article .
YOGA TRAINING FOR RUNNERS
A 40 minute Yoga For Runners Class By Julian. Suitable for all levels.
YOGA RUNNING COOLDOWN
A 15 minute yoga cool down class for runners by Julian. Suitable for all levels.
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The Author: Judes Emanuel
Judes Ems is the founder of Warrior Addict Yoga - she is a dedicated Yogi, Mum and Business Woman.
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Yoga can help prevent burnout when approaching a big race. Incorporating activities other than running can alleviate the monotony of training.
It’s best to avoid doing two intense workouts back to back. However, you can follow a run with a restorative yoga session or use a shorter, intense yoga workout as a warm-up before running.
To improve flexibility and reduce muscular imbalances for better running performance, practising yoga twice a week can be beneficial. Try incorporating yoga on your rest days to enhance mobility and promote recovery.
Running's repetitive nature can lead to imbalances that yoga can help to correct when practised correctly. Ideally, warm up with yoga before your run and cool down with it afterward.
