162: Cross Training with Yoga: The What, Why & How

Yoga is often perceived as a recovery tool for athletes, but that barely scratches the surface of what yoga can offer active people.

In this episode, hosts Tiffany and Rachel explore the many roles yoga can play in athletic cross training. They discuss how yoga can be used to not only maintain range of motion and provide tools for nervous system recovery, but to also balance repetitive movement patterns and support overall performance.

Listen in to learn how cross training with yoga supports longevity—not just in sports, but in life. Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, desk worker, recreational athlete or parent, incorporating yoga can help you move better, recover more effectively, and continue doing the activities you love for years to come.

“As humans, we want to be able to live the full expression of our lives… it really is about optimizing how we feel and function in our lives.” — Tiffany Cruikshank

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“Yoga crosses over so many different things, which is why it plays such a powerful role in cross training.” — Tiffany Cruikshank

Show Notes:

• Cross training: the big picture [1:38]
• How yoga can help [7:23]
• Cross training and injury reduction [10.51]
• Sequencing a cross training yoga practice:
• Breath work, body awareness, isometrics, MFR [12:25]
• Finding the right level & type of challenge [15:11]
• Mobility work [16:39]
• Nervous system regulation [17:45]
• Active recovery [18:11]
• Myriad yoga techniques to draw from [19:32]
• The goals of yoga for cross training:
• Maintaining mobility and ROM [21:10]
• Support performance and muscular balance, provide variety [21:58]
• Nervous system support, rest and recovery [24:18]
• Be flexible when teaching yoga cross training classes [26:16]
• The central goal of cross training: longevity of sport and long-term functionality in life [28:30]
• Key factors to keep in mind [37:28]
• The Yoga Medicine Yoga for Athletes Training [41:50]

Links Mentioned:

• Watch this episode on YouTube
• Yoga for Athletes Teacher Training

“Ultimately what we ’re looking for is creating balance in the system.” — Tiffany Cruikshank