Complementing Your Workouts with Yoga
A lot of people think of yoga and immediately think of advanced practitioners holding incredible postures and almost impossible balance points. Truth be told, even some beginner’s level yoga postures can be incredible beneficial to you regardless of your primary workout or sport. The flexibility and strength gains are immeasurable.
Flexibility and Balance
Flexibility and balance are the go-to reasons to try yoga and, as we mentioned, you don’t have to do a ton of advanced postures to benefit. Gains in your balance and flexibility levels can help you to avoid sports and workout injuries by making you less susceptible to minor sprains and strains.
Yoga for Stress Relief
Yoga can do a lot for your mental well-being as well, and it’s not all about meditation – some people practice yoga and never, ever meditate. The scientific reality is that regular yoga practice can help to produce the neurotransmitter, GABA, which helps with anxiety. People who practice yoga regularly report better sleep, less insomnia, and overall lower levels of stress.
Weight Loss
Yoga is an excellent practice for those looking to lose weight, especially for those who are starting with limited mobility, who are recovering from illnesses or injuries, or who need a low-impact routine. Start with yoga several times per week and then, as you gain strength, start adding other forms of cardio or strength training. Even more advanced workout enthusiasts will find the types of movement used in yoga can aid in their weight loss efforts.
Tightening and Toning
Yoga isn’t just about stretching. It’s also about strength. The different poses you will hold will certainly 
challenge all of the muscle groups throughout your body. Regular yoga practitioners enjoy toned leg muscles, arm muscles, shoulder muscles, back muscles and – of course – core muscles. Yoga can be used alone or in addition to a regular strength or weight lifting routine. Stick with your practice and you’ll find you can tone your entire body over time.
Not sure where to start? You can find yoga classes online, in your local gym, and even in stand-alone yoga studios. Websites like doyogawithme.com offer free videos and you can find a lot of yoga practitioners on social media as well. Make sure you start slowly, with beginner postures, and only move on to more advanced techniques when you’re ready.
Need help? Contact us here at Push Pedal Pull for help setting up a comfortable and safe home gym for your practice. We’ll help you find soft flooring, balance accessories, and anything else you need to succeed!