We have heard several members ask if combining yoga into their regular workout schedule is worth it and we say, “absolutely!” The cornerstone philosophy of functional fitness combines resistance training with proper form. Focus Fitness trainers always encourage rolling out and warming up the muscles and the body before entering into the crux of the workouts. As advocates of being functional through workouts we want that to translate into your body being functional in daily life as well.
Many of you read of the 85 year old woman, Anna Pesce, who lived for decades with a hunch on her back caused from scoliosis as well as a herniated disc. She dealt with constant pain for years with no real relief from doctors or medications, eventually ending up in a wheelchair. She decided at 85 to try yoga and, with a personal instructor specializing in senior citizens, she was able to stand tall and pain free in less than a year of practice. You can read more of her story here. The smile on her face as she stands tall says it all! Anna’s story is an extreme example of what yoga can do but the lesson remains valid. The therapeutic benefits of stretching combined with strength movements as done in yoga is said to improve circulation, flexibility, muscle tone, and can even boost energy levels.
In a functional fitness setting we strive to combine a variety of beneficial activities for overall health. Since form is at the forefront of healthy resistance training, having good balance is important to avoid injury. We’ve all picked up a weight and wobbled a bit on our feet. It’s those moments of instability that can be a source of causing harm to yourself and potentially others. The poses and stretches done in yoga build up those balancing muscles making you stronger and more importantly, steadier.
Focus Fitness wants you to improve your whole self in your exercise so that you can live fully day to day. That’s why the custom work-out for each of our members reflects their goals in a safe and fun way. Regular practice of yoga will only add to the activities and movements you can achieve so bust out that dusty yoga mat and get to a yoga class! There are many free classes all the time around town so cost isn’t a limitation. Here is a link to some of the ones you can try. We look forward to hearing about your experiences and how they affect your workouts! Namaste, y’all!
