5 Best Lower Body Yoga Stretches
Track and field is intense. From sprinting & throwing to running & jumping, training and competing takes a major toll on the body. It causes muscle soreness, fatigue, stiffness, and pain.
When you are extremely sore, yoga can help lessen the intensity of delayed onset muscle soreness (this is the official term for soreness!). Traditional yoga flows, like the Sunrise Salutation, are extremely beneficial.
Yoga poses can be used to release the tightness of your muscles and increase their range of motion. When you are sore, avoid aggressive stretching. Be gentle and use stretches as a way to bring relief.
The following five yoga stretches for the lower body are ideal to do after cooldowns, on your off days, or as part of flexibility practice.
Happy Baby Pose
The happy baby pose stretches your groin, back, and inner thighs. It is ideal for relieving tightness in places that other stretches do not typically stretch.
Pyramid Pose
The pyramid pose is another stretch perfect for track athletes. It provides a deep stretch for the hamstrings. It also stretches the calves, lower back, and core.
Pigeon Pose
The pigeon pose helps open the hips. It also stretches the back and groin areas.
When doing this stretch, be sure to square your hips, keep your back leg straight, and be aware of any potential discomfort to avoid injury.
Camel Pose
The camel pose stretches the front of the body. This stretch will feel particularly effective through the abdomen, lower back, and hip flexors.
Crescent Moon Pose
This stretch is similar to the lunge, but by having your back leg touch the ground you can increase the range of motion of your hips. This pose also provides a deep stretch in the front thighs and back.
