Pre Workout Yoga

We’ve talked about post workout yoga stretches, but now it’s time to look at some pre workout yoga! But why would we have to do a pre-yoga stretch if we do one after? Well, it’s simple. Stretching before a workout is great for loosening up muscles, which reduces the chance of injury. Stretching after a workout helps improve circulation, increase blood flow, and reduce soreness and stiffness after a hard workout. Basically, stretching is always good for you! So here’s a list of some pre workout yoga poses to get you ready for a good workout!

Gomukhasana 

Also known as Cow’s Head Pose, this is a great way to open up your hips and shoulders. You can do this pose either sitting or standing. Take your right arm and bend it with your elbow in the air and your palm flat on your back. With your left arm, bend it with your elbow facing down and your hand flat on your back. With your left hand, grab your right arm and lightly pull it, feeling the stretch in your triceps. If you’re not able to hold your hands behind your back, that’s okay, every day you’ll get closer and closer.

Dandayamana Mudrasana 

Also called the Standing Yoga Seal, this pose is amazing for stretching your upper back and legs. Stand with your legs shoulder width apart and your hands interlocked behind your back. Slightly bend your knees and lean forward, raising your arms higher towards the sky. Keep going as far as you can, and hold for twenty seconds before slowly bringing them back down and repeating one more time. 

Standing Pigeon Pose 

This pose requires some balance, and I'm not ashamed to say I've tipped over a few times trying to hold this pose, so I recommend standing next to something to help stabilize yourself. Standing on your left leg, cross your right leg at the knee, resting your ankle on your left thigh, and lightly push down on your right knee and thigh. Bend your left knee slightly, and if you need, hold onto a wall to stabilize yourself. Hold this pose for twenty seconds and repeat on the other leg. 

Utthita Ashwa Sanchalanasana

More commonly known as the high lunge pose, this stance is great for opening your hips and stretching your thighs, knees, and waist. Standing straight, take a big step forward with your right leg until your knee is bent at a 90 degree angle. Keep your shoulders and hips squared and back straight, and bend your left leg slightly, finding your balance. Raise your arms above your head and turn your upper body slightly to the right and hold for twenty seconds. Straighten yourself back up and repeat on your right side. Stand back up and do it all again on your left leg.