Yoga for Runners Has Many Benefits – North Attleboro, MA

19 March 2014      

The Boston Marathon is fast approaching as are other spring marathons, runs and 5K’s and half marathons. Spring is the season for charity runs and races and there is  nothing like running outdoors in the springtime, especially after a long winter like we have just had. You know how good running is for you, but do you know how many benefits of yoga for runners?

There are plenty of reasons that runners should take up yoga.

One aspect of yoga is static stretching, which can lengthen muscles. When you are hitting your stride while running, having a certain amount of muscle length can help. As you try to improve your pace, you’re asking your muscles to lengthen, so having that level of muscle flexibility from yoga is beneficial.

Short distance runners use fast-twitch muscles.  Yoga for runners can be used as a way to cross train. Yoga works slow-twitch muscles, and cross training is meant to work the muscle groups you don't usually work.

For many, after a long run training day being more active through practicing yoga helps them work out their soreness.

Runner’s World also says that practicing yoga can help improve strength and flexibility in the core, quads, hamstrings, and hip-flexors which are all essential to running. It is even believed that yoga can reduce injuries through this increased strength and all-around heightened awareness of your body.

For more information on yoga classes for runners, contact Answer is Fitness.