Running is a great way to increase improve your cardiovascular endurance and build lean muscle mass. However, it is tends to come at the cost of tight hips, sore muscles, and decreased flexibility.[1]Shape – 11 Yoga Poses Every Runner Needs to Know Fortunately, yoga is a great form of exercise to help with all of these issues! With that in mind, check out the top 5 yoga poses for runners.
Downward-Facing Dog
Downward-Facing dog, also known as Adho Mukha Svanasana, is one of the best yoga poses for runners.
Not only does it help lengthen your back, but it also stretches everything in your posterior chain all the way from your calves to your shoulders.[2]Runner’s Blueprint – The 9 Yoga Poses Every Runner Should Do
Seated Forward Bend
The seated forward bend, also known as Paschimottanasana, is a great great yoga pose to include before big runs.
While it might look easy to do, it is a great way to stretch your hamstrings, a common problem area for many runners.[3]the good body – 10 Best Yoga Poses for Runners: Essential Stretches for Pre and Post Running
Twisted Dragon
The twisted dragon pose is a great pose for runners because it targets the obliques, hip flexors, hamstrings, and adductors, all areas of concern for runners, at the same time.[4]Fleet Feet – Best Yoga Poses for Runners
Runners Lunge
The runners lunge pose, while not specifically for runners, despite its name, is especially helpful for runners after a long run. It targets the hips, glutes, groin, quads, and hamstrings all at the same time.[5]gethealthyu – 11 Essential Yoga Poses For Runners
Saddle Pose
When running, our hamstrings go through a beating and can get very tight. However, tightness in this area can lead to knee injuries that can prevent us from running. Fortunately, the saddle pose is a great way to get a deep stretch in your hamstrings as well as your hip flexors and ankles.[6]doyouyoga – The 6 Best Yoga Poses For Runners
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