Yoga Poses for Swimmers

In swimming, you may rely more on upper body strength. While going to the gym and lifting weights is a good option, yoga can help increase your strength while using your body weight.

• Start adding fast-paced Sun Salutations to your routine. Include Forward-Bend-to-Plank jumps and Chaturanga. Continue with a few rounds of Plank to Chaturanga to Downward Facing Dog.
• Add Vasisthasana for a challenge pose that will also challenge your balance and core strength.
• Finish with a few rounds of Half to Full Boat Pose to fire up your core.

Working on your flexibility will ensure that your stroke is more efficient. Poor shoulder rotation and tight back muscles will compromise your technique. This is where backbends come in.

• Include Cobra Pose in the Sun Salutations we were talking about and make sure you’re lifting from your back and not your arms.
• Salabhasana (Locust Pose) is a great back, glute and leg strengthener that works on the mobility of your shoulder joint.
• Follow with Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) and remember to look up and kick hard with your legs to increase the lift.
• Slowly transition to Bridge Pose to tone your back and stretch your shoulders and arms. This pose also works your thighs to refine your kick.