|
Cross-training
is the use of another sport or activity to enhance training in one's
primary sport, running in this case. Cross-training builds your
"non-running" muscles, rests your "running" muscles while maintaining (or
gaining) cardiovascular fitness or other relevant physical characteristic,
and provides balance to your muscle groups.
 Running is notorious for building up the muscles on
the back of the leg and for leaving the front leg muscles (quadriceps and
shins) much weaker, leading to pain and injuries, like Runner's Knee and
Shin Splints. Running also does little to strengthen the upper body and
abdomen, leading to unbalanced form. Yoga, which utilizes all of the
body's muscles, including the often neglected stabilizers, makes the
runner stronger and better functioning as a whole. Cross-training improves strength and
body tone, can replace running when you are injured, and helps prevent
boredom, overuse injuries, and all of these running-related problems
mentioned above.
Although there are many benefits to the philosophy of yoga, Asana
(posture) and Pranayama (breath control) are
the main focus of yoga for cross-training runners. Farmington Valley
Physical Therapy offers weekly Yoga for Runners and Pranayama Breathing
classes that can benefit runners, walkers, and bicyclists of any level.
These classes are part of the FVPT Running
Injury Prevention & Recovery Program.
Hatha (the type of yoga taught in our Yoga for Runners
Classes) is popularly used to increase flexibility. This can be
particularly good for “tight” runners, who need to loosen up and relax
their muscles. It is also thought to be an effective way to relieve
arthritis or back pain. Iyengar (classes coming summer 2007)
focuses on proper body alignment. It is most useful to runners who are
rehabilitating an injury. It is also an effective practice for trail
runners (or any runner) who want to gain better balance and flexibility.
 Goals of the Yoga for Runners Class: - Improved Core Strength
- Improved Flexibility and Balance
-
Stress Relief
- Greater ability to focus and concentrate
- More
efficient use of physical energy/strength
- Venue for
runners to learn effective methods of stretching
- A yoga class that is
designed to meet the needs of the athlete. The focus is on stretching
and strengthening with the intention of improving performance, whatever
your sport. An intense yoga practice focusing on strength, endurance &
form. Challenging for all levels this workout is truly meditation in
motion.
Return to the Yoga Program Page | 
