Yoga For You!

Hello! About a year ago this very communication source suggested that bicyclists (like you?) could possibly benefit from something different in the off-season, going so far as to recommend strength training. I love strength training and my gym and all that stuff. And yet… the person who massages this bag of bones repeatedly tells me that I should do more yoga.

Like lots of stuff worth doing, I’ve found that yoga has a bit of a barrier to entry. Where should I go? Is it OK if I’m a beginner? Is there a convenient time? Do I need a special yoga wardrobe? (Hard no.) I spent some time on the internet, email and the phone, contacting a few local studios. I learned a few things which I am happy to share. Regardless of where you end up, you’ll want a few supplies of your own. A yoga mat, a towel and a water bottle will get you most of the way there.

Everyone at every studio I spoke with was super nice and very interested in the ways in which yoga practice might benefit cyclists. We’re quite fortunate that there are several studios with different options, hours and pricing structures. I have great confidence that you’ll find something you like.

I communicated with Veronique and Mary Beth at Sanctuary Yoga, and, among other things, they have beginner-specific classes, yoga for men and yoga for healthy aging. The web site is clear and informative. Veronique and Mary Beth are both super nice and helpful. Check ’em out.

Angela at Fitness Yoga on Romence Road teaches yoga and pilates and was equally enthusiastic. Of special interest might be a free demo class on December 29th at 6:00 pm, for which you must register in advance.

I know several folks who visit Intentional Yoga, and they’ve got a lot going on! Hot yoga is their most popular class and consists of a fixed, structured set of movements. They have a sweet new member discount: unlimited classes for two weeks for $30. Dang!

I attended a class at Bent9 with my friend and my mom (two different people, though my mom and I are friendly). I was pretty spooked because Mom and Friend are both experienced yoga-types and I’m… not. It was great! I didn’t fall down or knock anyone over, and I felt terrific when I was done.

Sure, yes, ride the trainer all you want this winter. Ride outside all you can stand. But I think you’ll be a happier cyclist if you work on your whole body this off-season. Lift some weights. Try yoga. Give pilates a whirl. You’ll feel great.

Final thing: Everyone I spoke with was nice, friendly and totally willing and able to talk about their offerings and how it might work for you. The barrier to entry isn’t as high as I’d thought.