Yoga is a female-dominated practice, but it doesn’t need to stay that way. Men can also find value in yoga.
The benefits are similar for everyone. They don’t pick and choose gender, after all! However, from a man’s standpoint, those benefits can enhance aspects of men’s health.
It starts with breaking social stigmas. Men are expected to do “manly” activities like bodybuilding and martial arts. They’re expected to be strong and powerful. Yoga, on the other hand is considered to be gentle and graceful.
Well, here’s the thing. Yoga is also strong and powerful. It can enhance overall health, boost your abilities, and supplement your main sport. Really!
Not convinced? Here are 5 reasons why men should do yoga:
1. Improves Heart Health
Men are more prone to heart problems. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death for American men. About 70 to 89 percent of sudden cardiac events affect males.1
Yoga will help. Studies show that regularly practicing yoga reduces heart rate and blood pressure. Overall cardio and circulatory health will flourish. Of course, there’s more to it than stretching. In order to reap these benefits, breathing exercises are a must.2
2. Enhances Lung Capacity
From lifting weights to swimming, lung capacity is crucial. You need to be able to take in oxygen! It’s exactly what will power each and every muscle.
Yoga actually increases lung capacity. Again, breathing exercises are necessary to make it happen. The more air your lungs can hold, the harder you can work.3
3. Increases Muscle Strength
Most men lift weights to bulk up. But why stop there? To strengthen muscles even more, do yoga. Lifting is just half the game. As your muscles grow, yoga will add definition.4 Plus, you’ll be glad to know that almost every yoga pose builds core strength.5
Stronger muscles also mean more weight loss. Remember, muscle cells burn more calories than fat at rest.6
4. Prevents Injury
Injury is a risk of any exercise. Yet, men tend to practice high-impact sports, like football, boxing, and weightlifting.
Thanks to yoga, you can gain protection from injury. A regular practice of yoga can tone muscles, increase flexibility, and enhance athletic performance. Together, these benefits lower the chances of getting hurt.7
5. Improves Balance
Balance is more important than you think. Athletes need good balance to move with ease and efficiency. Otherwise, one swift movement will end up in a fall.8
For better balance, do yoga. It’ll help connect your mind and body, creating a sense of self-awareness. This will do wonders for athletic performance.9
At first, a class full of women can be intimidating. This is especially true if you’re a newbie, but keep in mind that yoga is an extremely accepting practice. Beginners are always welcome and you can move at your own pace.
If you’re that nervous, try a few videos at home. CureJoy and YouTube are amazing sources of beginner-friendly poses. In time, you’ll see that yoga can transform your body.
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