Yoga benefits for an MMA fighter in training
Lisa Betz-Marquez | NOV 11, 2023
Highly successful professional MMA stars have spoken well of yoga for its variety of training benefits. Here are a few examples: ·
· Conor McGregor: Irish boxer and mixed martial arts fighter McGregor has said yoga is an essential part of his training. He credits yoga with helping him to improve his flexibility, balance, and mental focus. “If it doesn’t involve balance I don’t think it’s beneficial,” says McGregor. “I do yoga every day. I’m perfecting my handstand, I like the tree pose with a side leg extension and the plank/side plank.”
· Ronda Rousey: American former mixed martial arts fighter, professional wrestler, and judoka, Rousey has said yoga is "the most important part of her training." She credits yoga with helping her to develop her mental toughness and discipline.
· Jon Jones: Current UFC Heavyweight Champion Jones said that yoga has "helped him to become a better fighter." He credits yoga with helping him to improve his recovery time and prevent injuries.
· Anderson Silva: Brazilian mixed martial artist and boxer and former UFC Middleweight Champion Silva has said that yoga is "the foundation of his training." He credits yoga with helping him to develop his unique fighting style and movement patterns.
· Georges St-Pierre: Georges St-Pierre, also known by his initials GSP, is a Canadian actor and former professional mixed martial artist. He is widely regarded as the greatest fighter in mixed martial arts history. St-Pierre has said that yoga is "one of the most important things I do to prepare for a fight." He credits yoga with helping him to improve his flexibility, strength, and endurance.
These are just a few examples of the many famous MMA stars who have spoken well of yoga in training. Yoga is a great way to improve your physical and mental health, and it can be especially beneficial for athletes like MMA fighters.
Here are some of the specific benefits that yoga can offer MMA fighters:
· Improved flexibility: Yoga helps to improve flexibility throughout the body. This can help MMA fighters to avoid injuries and move more efficiently in the cage.
· Increased strength: Yoga can also help to increase strength, especially in the core and legs. This can give MMA fighters a significant advantage in the cage.
· Improved balance: Yoga helps to improve balance and coordination. This can help MMA fighters to stay on their feet and avoid being taken down.
· Reduced stress: Yoga can help to reduce stress and anxiety. This can help MMA fighters to stay focused and calm during fights.
· Improved mental toughness: Yoga can help to develop mental toughness and discipline. This can help MMA fighters to push through pain and adversity during fights.
If you are an MMA fighter, or if you are simply interested in improving your overall health and fitness, we encourage you to give yoga a try. Yoga is a great way to improve your physical and mental health, and it can be especially beneficial for athletes.
If you are interested in learning more about yoga, take a look at our schedule of yoga classes and consider becoming a member of The Yoga Collective.
Lisa Betz-Marquez | NOV 11, 2023
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