Let’s face it: running can be hard on your body. Because of this many runners are now turning to the practice of yoga. Offering both physical and mental benefits, it’s easy to understand why implementing yoga techniques into your fitness regime holds such an appeal. From a reduced risk of injury to greater strength, it is a great way for runners to maintain a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Unfortunately, not all of the benefits that come from practising yoga are actually good for runners. One, in particular, could end up causing you more harm than good if you’re not aware of how it can affect your performance.

Below are three of the most commonly cited benefits of yoga for runners. At first glance, all three seem like great results but for you as a runner, one of them is actually false.

• Improved Breathing – True

Efficient breathing while running is crucial. Learning to control your breathing while on the mat will positively impact your run, helping you to conserve energy and reduce tension. energy and reduce tension.

Since yoga also involves focusing on taking deep, slow breaths, over time your lung capacity increases lung capacity increases, and with greater lung capacity also comes increased endurance and improved overall performance.

• Reduced Stress – True

Running puts a lot of stress on the body but it can also be mentally demanding. Practicing yoga on a regular basis reduces stress and helps you focus your thoughts stress and helps you focus your thoughts. By learning to focus your thoughts as you run, you achieve greater awareness of your surroundings and a deep sense of inner peace.

• Increased Flexibility – False

While yoga does increase flexibility, for you as a runner that is not necessarily a good thing. When it comes to running, flexibility is overrated. Research actually shows that if you are too flexible, you become a less efficient runner.

Just like an elastic band that gets stretched too much and over time loses its stretchiness, the same applies to your muscles and tendons. The tighter and more taut they are, the quicker they snap back and the less energy you use. This means you will be able to run faster and longer.

So next time you roll out the mat, don’t focus on yoga poses meant to increase flexibility. Instead, work on improving strength and yogic breathing. You will definitely benefit in the long run.