Yoga With A Resistance Band
When we hear the word resistance band we usually think of lifting weights and squatting, but there’s so much more that can be done if you use a little imagination. In this blog, I will list several yoga poses that can be enhanced with a resistance band!
Lunge
Standing with your feet at shoulder-width apart, step out your right leg at a 90-degree angle foot firmly planted on the ground, keeping your back leg straight and balancing on the ball of your foot. Make sure that your back is slightly curved and chest straight, making sure not to pass over your bent knee. Lift your arms straight above your head with the resistance band at your wrists, slowly pulling them apart several inches before bringing them back, repeating this process for sixty seconds. If you want to make this a little more difficult, you can opt to bend your back knee just above the ground, keeping your upper body straight and your arms raised.
Downward Dog
Place the resistance band at your calves, making sure it doesn’t fall below or rise above your knees. Bending your upper body down to place your hands on the ground, palms flat and butt in the air, your legs should stay straight, only bend slightly if you need to. Step your feet out until there is about a foot of space between, and either keep your feet flat on the ground or distribute your weight on the balls of your feet. Keep your head down, facing your feet. Then, raise your right foot off the ground and lift it several inches up, repeating a “bouncing” movement for thirty seconds. Place your foot firmly on the ground and repeat on the other leg. Make sure your leg remains straight while lifting it.
Hip Thrusts
Laying down on your back with your legs bent, place the resistance band at your thighs right above the knee. Placing your hands flat on the ground by your thighs, lifting your hips into the air, squeezing your glutes and feet flat, your shoulders and head should be the only body part on the ground. Slowly lower your body until you lightly touch the ground, repeating the action for thirty seconds. Keep your thighs open, the wider they are the more resistance you will feel.