How to avoid injuries in yoga practice?

Respecting your limits can help prevent yoga injuries .

Who thought that yoga wasn't a sport? Well, think again! Just like Pilates or other sports, yoga is a real physical exercise. And as with all sports activities, there is a risk of injury, especially if your muscles are not warmed up. Between twists, bends, stretches... your body is put to the test. However, it is possible to avoid injuries when practicing yoga . Here are all our tips for performing postures safely.

Choose a yoga class adapted to your level

If you are a beginner in the practice of yoga, you are not going to choose a session for experienced yogis! You will already have difficulty keeping up with the pace, but your body may not be able to handle it. Since the level is not the same, you risk setting the bar too high and therefore injuring yourself.

Warm up your muscles and joints

As in all sports, it is important to warm up well to prevent injuries in the practice of yoga , because a muscle tear can be very painful. Know that there are different warm-up asanas such as the stork (Uttanâsana) and the cobra (Bhujangâsana).

Hold the posture for less time

Depending on the type of yoga you practice, holding a posture for even a few minutes may be too long for you. Do you have pain that appears or you don't have enough balance yet? Very good! It doesn't matter, do what you can. The most important thing is the intention.

Adapt to your physical condition

Before your yoga session, remember to listen to your body. Are you in good shape? Do you have any pain anywhere? To avoid trauma during the yoga class , practice only if you feel healthy.

Don't rush things

Don't try to progress too quickly. Indeed, if you are not flexible and you try to force the postures (especially stretching) then you risk injuring yourself. The goal of practicing yoga is not to compare yourself to other yogis. Not everyone has the same flexibility, so respect your pace and go little by little.

Strengthen your body muscles

Yoga relaxes, but also allows you to strengthen your body. To prevent yoga injuries , strengthen your body, there you feel weaknesses. Here are some examples of yoga postures to strengthen your muscles : the sun salutation, the mountain (Tadasana), the boat (Naukasana), the warrior III (Virabhadrâsana III).

Use yoga accessories to help you

Are you not flexible or are you recovering from an injury? Then why not use yoga accessories: brick , strap , bolster , yoga wheel , etc. They will be an extension of your arm or a support for your back.

Use a suitable yoga mat

Your yoga mat is your greatest ally during your yoga class and it must be adapted to your type of practice to prevent yoga pain . For gentle yoga, choose a thicker floor mat. For dynamic yoga, opt for a thinner mat.

Find out how to choose your yoga mat .