When practiced correctly, yoga can play a vital role in the development of an athlete, progressing their performance both physically and mentally. Yoga designed for athletes is not “athletic” or “powerful” yoga – it is a method of recovery used to balance out the physical demands, repetitive actions, and mental stress of the gym/court/field.
Although there are so many benefits athletes can gain from yoga, today we’re highlighting our top five!
1. Decrease Stress
The mental benefits of yoga puts it a step above all other training. Activating the parasympathetic nervous system will decrease stress, reduce fatigue, and keep the mind sharp.
2. Increase Flexibility
Yoga will increase dynamic joint range of motion (more load to explode). This translates to greater range of motion in the shoulders and hips, which will make a volleyball or baseball swing more powerful.
3. Improve Balance
Stability and balance equates to enhanced movement control, contributing to better technique and form for sport-specific movements.
4. Increase Oxygen Efficiency
Breathwork allows an athlete to last longer during high pressure situations, recover quickly on the court/field, and improve overall performance.
5. Decrease Chance of Injury
Yoga helps to relieve joint stress, improve body awareness, and correct and prevent muscle imbalances – keeping the athlete healthy and playing their sport longer.
Get started with the Yoga Beginner Series
Whether you’re brand new to yoga or just not sure if you’re doing it correctly, the Yoga Beginners Series on YAX Online will get you started with basic yoga movements and breathwork techniques. It’s great for all levels and all sports.
Complete 1 video per week, for 4 weeks, to start increasing mobility, improving sport performance, and preventing injury.
Not a YAX Online member yet? Sign up for a 7-day free trial!
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Here's a 4-minute video clip from the 19-minute section about the Science of Stretching from the Yoga Coaching Course!
Here's an 8-minute video about athletes from the Yoga Coaching Course!
Here's a 7-minute introduction video for the Yoga Coaching Course.
This course will give you a better understanding of the importance of yoga and how to apply it to the athletes you currently work with.
