Hit a size or strength plateau? Don’t change what you’re eating or how you’re training – just add some yoga to your routine and start growing getting better and faster gains then ever!
Plateaus SUCK.
We all know what it’s like to be stuck on one of these bastards…
It’s frustrating and it’s one of those aspects of training that we ALL go through.
Plateaus are a part of life – it takes work to get through them.
Whether it be a PR goal you’re trying to achieve – or whether there’s a certain number on the scale you’re trying to hit…
Sometimes, there’s just something standing in the way.
It may be mental…
Or it may be physical – either way – we’ve got to find ways to burst through them.
Most people start by trying to change up what they’re doing…
They’ll change the food they’re eating…
Or they’ll change the way they’re lifting – going lighter or heavier – doing drop sets or partials… anything to break through the plateau.
That being said…
What if you didn’t have to?
What if the secret to busting through a size or strength plateau was as easy as getting on the floor a few times a week – and giving you muscles the attention they deserve?
Now – I’m not talking about just stretching…
Any mook can stretch.
No, I’m talking about REALLY making that mind/body connection…
I’m talking about yoga.
Yoga: It’s Not Just For Hippies And “Chicks”
Now, I know that yoga can be a “dirty” word when it comes to strength training or bodybuilding…
But the fact is – these techniques can really change the way your body looks and feels – and those changes will most definitely be felt at the gym.
Obviously, strength training or bodybuilding and yoga are all different forms of exercise that have their own unique benefits.
Bodybuilding and strength training are focused on building muscle mass and strength through weight training…
While yoga is a practice that emphasizes flexibility, balance, and mindfulness.
However – what most people don’t realize is – incorporating yoga into a bodybuilding routine can have several benefits that can improve overall health and performance.
You can get better and faster gains with yoga – I swear!
So, I decided to list a few of the benefits of yoga – as it pertains to lifting – and why everybody should start incorporating it into their routine.
Improved Flexibility
Yoga is known for its ability to improve flexibility and range of motion in joints…
This can be especially beneficial for bodybuilders who often focus on heavy lifting and may be experiencing tightness and stiffness in their muscles and joints.
Improved flexibility can also reduce the risk of injury and allow for better execution of exercises – in both the downward and upwards motions.
Better Balance and Stability
Many yoga poses require balance and stability…
Something a LOT of strength athletes tend to ignore.
Sure, they may have stability under weight or while standing – but have you ever asked a strength athlete to stand on one foot and just balance?
They tend to be a bit wobbly…
Yoga can improve both – which can help bodybuilders develop better control over their movements and improve their ability to maintain proper form during lifts.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
We ALL deal with stress…
And if you’re dealing with a plateau – you’re even MORE stressed than usual.
Yoga incorporates breathing techniques and mindfulness practices that can help reduce these cortisol creators – helping you to just let go of your worries.
Strength athletes often face high levels of stress due to the demands of training…
And incorporating yoga into their routine can help them better manage their stress levels and improve their mental well-being.
Improved Recovery and Reduced Soreness
Yoga can also help improve recovery after workouts and reduce muscle soreness.
Certain yoga poses can help increase blood flow to muscles and reduce inflammation – which can speed up the recovery process…
Sometimes, plateaus happen because there is too much inflammation throughout our muscles and joints.
If you’re constantly feeling sore – and let’s face it, many of us LOVE that sore feeling – it may be hindering us from reaching our goals.
Letting the yoga positions increase the blood flow to vital areas is one of the keys to healing…
And getting back to growing.
Increased Concentration and Focus
Getting the most out of training sessions requires an intense mind/body connection…
If you’re having trouble concentrating on your exercises – you’re not going to get the kind of progress you’re looking for.
Yoga requires a high level of focus and concentration – which is something the breathing and positions almost force upon the practitioner…
This reconnection of the mind and body can help bodybuilders develop better mental clarity and focus during their workouts.
This alone can better help them stay more engaged and perform better during their training sessions.
The Take Away
Incorporating yoga into a bodybuilding routine can be done in several ways…
One option is to attend yoga classes in a studio or gym.
For beginners – I highly suggest this move – as it will give you a base as it provides a more structured and guided practice…
As well as an opportunity to connect with other yogis – who are always willing to help.
Another option is to practice yoga at home using online classes or videos.
While this is less ideal than attending an actual studio – it’s better than not doing anything at all – and it gives you the flexibility and convenience of doing it when you can.
Here’s the thing…
Even if you’re NOT in the midst of a plateau – yoga can be beneficial.
There are several benefits that can improve overall health and performance.
From improved flexibility and balance to reduced stress and anxiety…
Yoga can complement the work you’re doing in the gym.
They say all of life is balance…
And nothing can help you attain that better than yoga.
Try it…
There are tons of videos on youtube that can get you started.
You don’t have to jump into the deep end of the pool…
Just dip your toes.
I assure you – the water is fine.
“This practice of yoga is to remove the weeds from the body so that the garden can grow.” – B.K.S. Iyengar
