Yoga to help cycling, but which type?

grimpeur
grimpeur Posts: 230
edited September 2007 in Workshop
Hi there,

This autumn I'm hoping to do a bit of Yoga / pilates at the local university gym of which i am a member. There are several classes available so I'd be interested to know which would be the best with regards to helping me with core stability and flexibility for cycling.

The classes are...

Traditional Yoga
Pilates
Tai Chi
Iyengar Yoga

Can anyone help?

Comments

  • gr033y
    gr033y Posts: 29
    Go for the Pilates. It's good for your core and balance.It actually gives me a good cardio workout to a small degree if you really try all the hard moves.

    Have'nt tried a yoga class but have done it at home, more of a relaxation thing i think...
  • xbenhanleyx
    xbenhanleyx Posts: 73
    I have done quite a bit of Iyengar Yoga. It is excellent, because it has a significant focus on correct body alignment and I have found that it has really helped keep me injury free. It is also very hard work and excellent for developing muscle strength / stamina.

    Despite what you may expect, Yoga is a very intense form of excerise and I would suggest that you go to a class, at least until you get used to it. You also need to be careful of the timing of when you start, because it is likely that you will have some aches and pains for a few days after. You can look for a course near you on:

    http://www.iyengaryoga.org.uk/html/institutes.asp

    Otherwise you will not get the full benefits and there may be adverse consequences of doing things wrongly. You can also buy the BK Iyengar book which contains all of the positions and has a training guide.

    Good luck!
  • cougie
    cougie Posts: 22,512
    My missus teaches Pilates and she has a few cyclists in her classes. If your core muscles are strong they support your weight rather than your spine.
    Apparently Leipheimer swears by it.
  • Deuce
    Deuce Posts: 18
    Astanga or Power Yoga can be easier to appreciate as it is works you harder.

    The focus of tai chi can vary enormously, but if you can get a martial-type instructor there are some chinese standing exercises that can get the maximum power out your legs.

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