INCREASE STRENGTH BY INTEGRATING YOGA

I noticed some of you are interested in strength training and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), hence I have started researching and writing some articles, specifically for you. Let me first introduce a guest writer Claude Castro, a well-respected Strength coach who has been in the industry almost 3 decades and is a big fan of Just Add Colour Yoga Mat Bags and promoting mobility of course!

 “As a personal trainer who has been lifting weight for around 25 years now I’m always looking for ways to execute movements, make one feel better and move better. My own transition towards more movement and stability exercises like the yoga poses has allowed me to deliver a more rounded service to clients of Claudefit personal training. Whether it be heavy duty weightlifting, Kettlebells or even boxing it’s important to recognize that movement of the body should be a priority with all disciplines. 

With Yoga I first found the movements/positions challenging. However with most things you just need to practice and eventually you will find your groove. At my age (46) I’m feeling a lot better with my overall patterns and still manage to keep on lifting weights. Now pain free, the Yoga (be it basic) component, compliments my Primal move and bodyweight training quite well.”  Claude Castro from Claudefit personal training. www.claudefit.com.au  

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Claudefit-Personal-Training-Services/211026005578283?ref=br_tf

Peacock Pose (Mayurasana)

Image sourced from Dragon Door Australia
 Anthony Read, at Read Performance Training.

Peacock is an extremely challenging pose. Beginners are best to try Hamsasana (Swan Pose) first, which is basically the same body and arm position but with the tips of the toes gently touching the floor. Begin by holding for 1 minute. Both Swan and Peacock are best performed on an empty stomach (or 4 hours after a heavy meal) and are superb poses for improving core and arm strength, as well as aiding digestion.

Handstand Pose (Adho Mukha Vrkasana)

Is a challenging inversion, which requires a decent amount of arm, shoulder and wrist strength and balance. Beginners- you can practice this pose up against a wall with your heels towards the wall, until you feel comfortable with your balance and ready to try it free-standing.

Image on the right: Claude showing us his One Legged Squat.

Plow Pose (Halasana)

This inverted, grounding pose, stretches Claude's shoulders and invigorates his entire body, whilst calming his nervous system. Beginners- you can use a prop such as a block or bench to rest your feet on. Feel comfortable in this pose without trying to touch the floor with your toes, as you may hurt your neck

Full Wheel/ Upward Bow Pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana)

This backbend strengthens Claude's arms, legs, abdomen, and spine and gives his body a boost of energy. Beginners- to feel more supported, get comfortable by practising this pose on an exercise ball first.

As with all of the advanced poses presented today, it may take months and months of consistent practice to master. Try not to feel disheartened nor focus on the people beside you in the yoga class; your body will adjust when it’s ready.

Full step-by-step pose instructions online: www.yogajournal.com& www.myyogaonline.com As always, I’d recommend you to see a trained yoga professional to guide you through the movements, correctly and safely.

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