In developing the Flexibility For Athletes program, we incorporated optimal performance strategies drawn from the yoga tradition—and specially tailored for the athlete. Why yoga? Because of the mind/body connection that is essential to an athlete; the strength, flexibility and balance components of the yoga postures and the yogic breathing which is the foundation of our program. 

How you breathe is absolutely critical to your success no matter what your sport.  Our program incorporates specific breathing techniques that shift you out of shallow mouth and/or nasal breathing. The breathing I’m describing is referred to as Pranayama in ancient yoga traditions. Translated it’s “prana” meaning energy and “yama” meaning master or control. Together it’s a process of controlling or mastering your energy. As an athlete, this is critical. Without the ability to harness specific energy flows, you have yet to perform at your body’s complete ability. 

So, we focus on the 3 main components of yoga (breathing, postures and relaxation/meditation) with heavy emphasis on breath work (also known as Inspiratory Muscle Training in the West). All 3 components are used in either a cardio workout with running, rowing or cycling as well as a strength-training program to be used with free weights or cable machines.