Yoga may actually be the missing link to a weightlifter's workout. Surprised? Well, some weightlifters are not. There are a growing number of competitive weightlifters realizing the advantages of adding yoga to their fitness regimen. Many have discovered that the combination of yoga and weightlifting offers a complete and balanced fitness program that is beneficial to the mind and body.
Many exercises that weightlifters do tend to shorten their muscle fibers and reduce their flexibility. This shortening of muscle fibers along with the reduction in flexibility, makes weightlifters susceptible to injuries. Yoga, on the other hand, lengthens the muscles, increases flexibility, gives relief to sore muscles and eliminates toxins. Thus by practicing yoga on off days, weightlifters can offset some of the negative effects of weightlifting.
In addition, yoga can greatly assist weightlifters in achieving equality in strength and flexibility. It is commonly known that our bodies are not evenly balanced. We are aware that one side of our body may be stronger than the other. For example, it is not surprising that a weightlifter may have one arm that is stronger than the other when doing bicep curls. When done properly, yoga works each side of the body so that each side experiences the same stretch, balance and strength pose. Ancient yogis purposely designed the yoga poses in this manner so that a balance of mind and body could be achieved. By practicing yoga weekly, a weightlifter can significantly increase strength in previously weaker muscles.
Moreover, practicing yoga consistently will allow the weightlifter to quiet his or her mind so that deeper focus and concentration can be achieved. Often the weightlifter's workout environment includes a lot of showmanship and large egos. In such an environment, the mind may be distracted and therefore, poor form utilized, creating the likelihood for injuries, such as torn muscles, tendon and dislocated joints. Being able to block out such surrounding chaos, a weightlifter can focus more clearly on his or her purpose at hand.
Yoga provides a gateway to that area of the brain that allows you to achieve astounding results no matter what you are pursuing. Weightlifters that add yoga to their fitness program will see improvements in all areas of their mind and body. Furthermore, a great physique will be achieved as well as flexibility that will allow movement with more confidence and style.
John MacNamera is an avid weightlifter and recently tried Yoga after hearing about its advantages from a personal trainer. John is a popular fitness writer and has covered topics ranging from proper lifting techniques to HGH Spray and HGH Injections. Currently John is working on a detailed report of Sytropin to see if it really is as good as many websites and fitness professionals say it is. When John is not working out, researching or writing, he enjoys spending time with his family in the Idaho wilderness.