5 Yoga Poses for Weight Lifters

Weightlifting is one of the best ways to gain strength, but consistent heavy lifting can put a strain on your muscles and reduce your overall range of motion. To combat the strain that strength training puts on your body, stretching is key.

Yoga is an exercise that lends itself well to a training schedule because it allows you to build your flexibility. In turn, this increased flexibility will make weightlifting easier and reduce the chance of injury. Yoga also improves coordination and balance, both important to maintaining proper form when lifting weights.

The following yoga poses can complement your strength training by stretching the muscles, increasing mobility, and improving balance.

1) Downward Facing Dog

Starting on your hands and knees, spread your fingers wide and tuck your toes under. Draw your hips toward the ceiling as you exhale. Feel free to pedal your feet as you stretch out your arms and legs in this core yoga pose. Downward dog will lengthen the entire spine while strengthening your legs and arms.

2) Half Pigeon Pose

You can get into half pigeon pose from downward dog by lifting the left leg and bringing it forward to your chest. Place the left knee down on the mat next to your left wrist. Reach your right leg behind you on the mat. Hold this yoga pose for two minutes before squats to release tight hips. Then make sure to repeat on the other side. Offering a deep glute and hip…