Tension and anxiety are common among Americans, and there are many different methods of stress relief that can them find rest and peace of mind. Running is a type of physical activity that many people find soothing, but the exercise can result in soreness and tightened muscles. In order to counteract these effects, more runners are turning to the tranquil art of yoga, according to the Windsor Star.
Yoga instructor Stephanie Vinsec said that many new students have joined her class in the hopes of strengthening and calming their bodies.
"Runners' hips, lower back and hamstrings are in constant motion and are prone to injury," she told the news source. "When you run, those muscles become shorter because they are contracting. Yoga can target those areas and help lengthen the muscles."
Vinsec, who was a marathon runner herself, said that the gentle techniques of yoga can improve a person's stamina and flexibility. She encourages those who run frequently to engage in yoga at least twice a week, as the regimen can help improve their core muscles, arms and upper body. These positive effects make the exercise a perfect complement to more strenuous activities.
