If you’re a runner, yoga has some unique benefits that can help you get more out of your running and also help avoid injury.

These 5 poses are recommended by Daily Cup of Yoga to help runners improve your running form, enhance flexibility, and relieve the stress that running can put on your body.

1. Butterfly

This yoga pose helps in adding flexibility to your groin and hips by opening up your inner thighs. Lean forward a little and the activity also aids in stretching the back. Here’s how to do it:

• Sit tall on a mat and make sure that the soles of your feet are together, from here interlace your fingers and keep them on your toes when still sitting tall.
• Next, turn your shoulders back and try to look at a point past the end of your nose tip.
• Lean forward until you can feel the stretch.
• While breathing in, imagine that your head is moving towards the wall in front of you and then breathe out, allowing your body to sink close to the floor.
• For the best results, ensure you hold this position for about thirty seconds.

2. Thread the Needle

If you need a yoga move to stretch the outside of your hips and the inner thighs, then this is it. Do the following:

• Lie flat on your back on a mat and bring your knee towards your chest at a ninety-degree angle.
• Position your right ankle on your left thigh and then interlock your fingers while keeping them at the back of your thighs.
• Try to pull your left thigh towards your chest and hold in this position for about thirty seconds.
• Allow yourself to relax when you feel the tension building and repeat the pose on the other side.

3. Bridge

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5. Seated Spinal Twist

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5. Low Lunge

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See the full list and pictures of each pose at:

www.dailycupofyoga.com

Image Source: Daily Cup of Yoga