Yoga after exercise?

[Manchimp]

After working out at the Gym (bench press, shoulder press, etc) does yoga help recovery at all? I was thinking about trying it out.

Anyone try it or recommend it?

 

[SociallyChallenged]

After working out at the Gym (bench press, shoulder press, etc) does yoga help recovery at all? I was thinking about trying it out.

Anyone try it or recommend it?

No type of stretching actually helps recovery. It may actually hinder recovery since it induces more damage to the muscle and connective tissue. It is, however, great for flexibility. You have to gauge how you're feeling. It may be too much stress to lift and then do intense stretching for some people. I would either stagger the workout and the yoga at different times during the day or do yoga on my off day. That would help reduce the stress put on the body and nervous system.

 

[darkxshade]

Really? I've been stretching after all my workouts including lifting. Are you saying that I shouldn't? What about after a 5 mile run or other cardio?

 

[SociallyChallenged]

Really? I've been stretching after all my workouts including lifting. Are you saying that I shouldn't? What about after a 5 mile run or other cardio?

Stretching is great. I'm just saying it's not actually helping recovery. It does, however, decrease likelihood of strains, tendinitis, and other injuries. If you aren't recovering quickly, it might be a problem. If you're recovering fine, then keep on keepin' on.

 

[darkxshade]

I'm recovering just fine from lifting and do not feel any soreness or negative effects for my next lifting day. But you also said that it induces more damage to muscles, so if it's actually negatively affecting me(albeit unnoticeable), I'd rather not do it.

 

[SociallyChallenged]

I'm recovering just fine from lifting and do not feel any soreness or negative effects for my next lifting day. But you also said that it induces more damage to muscles, so if it's actually negatively affecting me(albeit unnoticeable), I'd rather not do it.

Everything you do causes damage to muscles - lifting, stretching, running. That's how your body gets stronger. It recognizes the stimulus and adapts accordingly. Stretching IS beneficial in many ways, especially for form and injury prevention. My answer is based purely on whether it affects your recovery or not. If it doesn't, then you should most certainly do it. Even if it does, you need to find SOME time to stretch or else you will heighten your risk of hurting yourself.