Daily Total: 0; Weekly Total: 35; Per Mile Pace: NA; Days Until Marathon: 60
I cannot emphasize enough how essential regular yoga practice is to my overall marathon training. Yoga reinforces endurance and mental patience; strengthens core and limbs; relieves the body of unnecessary energy and tension; and restores the mind and body to peace. I practice yoga three times a week and I'd practice even more often if it wasn't for the busy running and cross-training schedule.
Regular yoga practice can replace other forms of stretching. I never stretch before or after a run, unless it is the cold, bone-chilling morning of a race and I need to occupy my limbs to build body heat. It is the mental investment of yoga that reaps physical rewards. I can absolutely feel the difference the weeks that I deprive myself of regular practice.
Yoga studios abound and there are even classes offered online (e.g., Yoga Today) but I mostly engage in my own practice due to schedule and financial constraints. I attend maybe two classes a month just to treat myself to something different. Kundalini and/or restorative yoga is a great way to prepare for a race and a much deserved change of pace to the intense flow or strength building yoga.
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