Benefits of Yoga for Martial Artists

Comparing yoga with martial arts, you will realize that they are in polar opposition to each other. Yoga is full of the slow movements, peaceful breathing, and calming stretches. The yoga postures are meditative, peaceful and relaxing. Conversely, martial arts movements tend to emphasize speed.

But if you further examine the benefits of yoga, you will quickly realize that they are perfect for martial artists in many ways. The benefits are improved focus, increased flexibility, and the capacity to remain calm. All these are extremely beneficial for martial artists.

Here are some major benefits of yoga for martial artists.

Increased flexibility that can be found through yoga practice is very important in that it benefits performance and also reduces the chance of an injury. By being flexible you can minimize the chances of injuries to ligaments, sprains, pulled muscles, tendons and joints. Light stretches also quicken the recovery of muscle spasm.

With improved focus and correct postural alignment you will increase your level of concentration and awareness. These are crucial for performing at higher levels in the martial arts. In martial arts, the capacity to stay calm will have a remarkable impact on your performance. Yoga helps martial artists by keeping their wits and controlling their stress levels.

Breathing control is probably the best benefit that will drastically enhance the endurance and capability to increase the use of oxygen and will prevent you from gassing out by holding your breath. It is commonly seen that there is a loss of focus during practice sessions and even more during competitions. The importance of breath control makes you aware of your breath and you don't hold your breath for too long enough to tire you out, faster.

Martial art practitioners of some martial arts, like Judo and Brazilian Jiujitsu, will greatly benefit from practicing Yoga. The breath control and postural training in these two arts will blend itself with yoga very well. The other styles that will benefit greatly, from yoga, are combat sports like Muay Thai and MMA.

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Namaste!