Yoga has been around for centuries. In recent years, yoga training for athletes has gained popularity among people of all shapes, sizes, ages, and genders. Almost all people have some idea that yoga is a good activity to perform on a regular basis; but some people, especially athletes, are not exactly sure of the many benefits yoga has to offer.

Five Benefits of Yoga Training for Athletes

1. Yoga Builds Strength

Although yoga seems more of a passive activity, it is definitely not. Yoga training for athletes involves working the whole body from the inside, out – it strengthens your quads, hamstrings, back, and abdominal muscles.

2. Provides Cardiovascular Workout

Performing yoga decreases the risks of heart disease. Since yoga combines controlled breathing, relaxation of the mind, and meditation, the combination lowers blood pressure and ceases the release of stress hormones. This is important when training for athletic purposes.

3. Yoga Builds Flexibility

The yoga pose “Tadasana” is a great way to increase flexibility. Yoga has been shown to improve range of motion, as well as decrease pain.

4. Increases Libido

Yoga has been linked to increased libido and can enhance your sex life by teaching your body to “draw energy inward instead of releasing energy outward in explosive ways, such as coming to the end of a wind sprint or trying to jump like LeBron James.” We understand increasing libido is not the most important aspect of training for athletes; however, it is a positive benefit for mental and emotional health.

5. Yoga Leads to a Happier Disposition

Yoga increases the oxygen flow to your brain, releasing serotonin. Ways to increase your oxygen intake and overall yoga experience and set yourself up for a happier disposition is to incorporate aromatherapy when performing yoga.

Remember, with any physical activity you perform, there are risks associated with them. A helpful hint is to attend a few yoga classes so that you are familiar with the different yoga asanas, as well as learn to use proper form to prevent injury.