Training Tips Thursday - Yoga for Cyclists

I keep finding more articles recommending yoga poses to enhance different physical activities.  Last week's feature was based on an article about yoga for runners.  Hmm... maybe there's something to this... maybe yoga is good for all athletes!  What a concept...

This article in VeloNews, the Journal for Competitive Cycling at http://velonews.competitor.com/2010/04/news/yoga-for-cycling-a-few-key-exercises_111661 lists the following yoga poses as good for cyclists:

Standing Bow

*Increases circulation to the heart and lung

*Improves elasticity of the spine
*Creates union of strength and balance
*Activates digestive system

Spine Twist
*Improves flexibility of the spine and hip joints, relieves back pain, and helps prevent slipped discs
*Good for kyphosis, scoliosis, cervical spondylosis, and arthritis
*Increases circulation to the spinal nerves, veins, and tissues
*Calms the nervous system

Cobra
*Good for digestion, kyphosis, scoliosis, low back pain, low blood pressure, spondylo-arthritis of lumbar spine
*Increases spine strength especially in the lower spine














Fixed Firm
*Increases circulation to the lower limbs
*Strengthens and improves the flexibility of the lower spine, hips, knees, and ankle joints
*Good for lower back pain, helps prevent hernia
*Strengthens Psoas muscles