Yoga for Athletes, Part Two

Yoga doesn't increase only an athlete's physical performance and prevent injury. It can also give the athlete the extra mental edge they need to take their game to the max.

A study at Penn State University yielded some surprising findings. Researchers divided athletes into three groups: those who practiced their sport physically for a week before a game, those who did not practice yet meditated each day, visualizing their performance improving, and those who did nothing. Although it would be expected that those athletes who actually practiced their sport would have the best performance on game day, this was not the case. It was those athletes who practiced meditation who improved the most and won the game. Even though they had engaged in no physical activity related to their sport in the past week, the time they spent in meditation gave them the edge they needed.

People often talk about "mind over body" phenomenon. While yoga practice won't necessarily turn you into the next Mark McGuire, it can help you visualize your way to increased performance. During yoga practice, athletes can use guided imagery and visualization to create in their mind the game they want to have. The more often and the more deeply such meditation is practiced, the greater the effect. The body begins to believe the picture of physical performance in the mind's eye, and it works accordingly.

Before a big game, spend at least 20 minutes a day actually visualizing the upcoming contest. Picture it play by play in your mind. See your body performing the necessary moves to defeat your opponents. Know that if you can dream it, you can reach your goal.

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