Grow Your Athletic Ability With Yoga Pilates

As an athlete, there is a constant struggle between pushing yourself to the next level and avoiding injury and over-exhaustion.  Recently, I signed-up for my first Ironman. After the first few weeks of training, the daily 2 and 3 hour workouts had already left my body craving some athletic R&R.  With a little research, I found some innovative, inner loop yoga and pilates classes to help.  Adding variety to my routine of swimming, biking and running, these classes were designed to help keep my muscles stretched, toned and strong in new ways. After a attending only a few sessions, yoga and pilates has already become an integral part of my training, helping me grow as an athlete and stay energized as my training sessions intensify.

Yoga classes designed for athletes focus on improvements in flexibility, strength and overall mentality.  “Yoga for Runners,” a class offered by Joy Yoga (4500 Washington Avenue, JoyYogaCenter.com), aims to stretch the muscles, hamstrings and calves, which are typically overused in extensive running routines. But all athletes, not just runners, have areas that are prone to tightness and strain. Cyclists often struggle with their quadriceps and swimmers with their shoulders and trapezoids.  That being said, although specialized by the type of athlete, these classes have enough diversity to benefit everyone.

The benefit of yoga for athletes isn’t just physical though. The innovative playlist and good mojo at Joy Yoga helps keep your spirits up too.

The classes encourage free movement and joy and friendly greetings from the studio’s mascot, Tiki the Chihuahua, get you ready to take on the next challenge.  And the inspiration doesn’t stop when you leave. Tiki delivers words of wisdom directly to you inbox, helping you stay focused and to appreciate the day, no matter where you are.

Your Body Center (3605 Katy Fwy @ Heights Blvd, YourBodyCenter.com) has always offered a unique variety of classes that are great for athletes. One of my personal favorites is the pilates-ball class.  Not only does it help with stretching and toning, it focuses highly on the core.  And while most of us are not big fans of abdominal workouts, a strong core will support your entire body and improve your overall performance in almost any sport. Using the ball and your body for resistance, you will get an entire body workout with minimal stress to your joints.

A strong, flexible body is the key in staying free from injury and being ready to take on the next challenge. Listen to your body. If it hurts, chances are you should pay attention. Yoga and pilates are great resources in helping to keep your body healthy and happy.  And the more you are in-tune with your body, the more effective your training will be in taking you to new levels.