I was recently quoted in the June edition of Idea Fitness Journal with tips on yoga for runners. I was excited to see it! Read the article here.
Yoga has helped my running and most of my physical activities in many ways. It provides a little calm after a fast paced hike or jog. I’m more aware of when I need rest, and it definitely stretches out tight muscles. If you run or engage in physical activities that tighten muscles, a little yoga might do you some good. Here are a few suggestions to get started (taken from what was printed in the article, but easier to read! More on this in the future.)
Start small. You can always build up to making yoga a bigger part of your training. Practicing one or two poses after each run is a great way to introduce yoga into your routine.
Make time for in person group or private instruction, especially when you are starting out. Look for a teacher or trainer who gives you personal feedback on the important details of form, breath and how to adapt poses for your needs.
Focus less on goals and more on experience. Runners often emphasize markers of success like running a 7-minute mile or finishing a race. In yoga this approach is not helpful. Focus on how your body feels and the quality of your breath, not whether or not you can touch your toes.
Learn to enjoy relaxation. Relaxation is your chance to integrate the practice and recover from the stress of training (And it doesn’t have to take a long time!)
Have patience. Depending on the style, yoga is slower than running. Look for benefits over weeks or months, not minutes or days.
Are you a runner? Do you practice yoga? What’s your experience?
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed! 
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Stacey .. I don’t run .. but I always used to stretch before and after my squash games .. and they were essential. I am going to get some yoga teaching sometime soon – as I need to get my body back into a healthy position .. it’s not awful .. but it’s not brilliant. & I’ll do some walking & again a few minutes stretching before I set out will help a lot ..
Thanks for these thoughts – Hilary
Hi Stacey
I don’t run either, but I have heard of many runners healing greatly thanks to yoga, as well as being better prepared for the activity itself.
And congrats on being quoted in the article. It is always great to contribute to other outlets our expertise.
I’m a fast paced walker. I know. I know. I’m an old man.
I’m trying to preserve my knees.
I also practice yoga and find that using both in combo help keep me fit and relaxed. If I don’t stretch (Yoga) after a fast walk my hamstrings get tight. This allows me to do what I love and stay healthy.
Hilary – so true – no matter your sport, stretching is a great compliment and can help tremendously!
Evita – thank you. It surprised me at first the positive changes I realized in my running when I started practicing yoga.
Karl – Old man, nothing! Running isn’t for everyone…and walking is a perfect activity, with yoga to balance it out.