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Some practices for building strength and increasing muscle mass have been proven to be effective since the ancient times in which they were first founded. Similarly to how the Deer Antler has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries, yoga has been practiced for thousands of years as a tool to hone in the strength of the mind, body and spirit.
Combining breathing techniques with a series of balanced and careful movements, yoga tones the whole body from the inside out, while quietening the mind allowing for self-reflection and mindful stillness. However, unlike weight training, yoga appears more delicate and is often considered a more effeminate form of bodybuilding. Yoga, in fact, has been and is practiced by people from all walks of life, particularly martial arts practitioners. Excellent for core strength, yoga teaches discipline and an inherent knowledge of the body, allowing for more purposeful, balanced movement in life.
Here are a few positions that focus on core strength. Prepare for them to be harder than you realise!
These three positions will help to engage the core, strengthening the abdominal muscles and back muscles to support whole body movement, promote healthy digestion, and keep mental balance. Bear in mind that these positions require active engagement from the whole body, with the mind consciously focusing on how to alter the position to create balance and to support oneself more comfortably. This engagement will tone the muscles further and create a full-body exercise experience.
- Dolphin Plank
- Thread-the-Needle Side Plank
- Bridge