“Riding a motorcycle requires excellent physical condition and mental focus, as well as the ability to react swiftly to changing road conditions. One effective way for motorcyclists to enhance their health, stamina, and safety on rides is through functional fitness yoga routines.” - Lara Madden

Functional Fitness and Yoga for Motorcyclists:

Motorcycling is an exhilarating and liberating experience, with the open road stretching ahead and the wind in your face. However, this thrill comes with its fair share of physical challenges and safety concerns. Riding a motorcycle requires excellent physical condition and mental focus, as well as the ability to react swiftly to changing road conditions. One effective way for motorcyclists to enhance their health, stamina, and safety on rides is through functional fitness yoga routines.

Functional fitness focuses on exercises that mimic real-life movements and improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Combining functional fitness principles with the mind-body connection that yoga offers creates a potent cocktail of benefits for motorcyclists.

I am honored to have been invited to lead a functional fitness yoga workshop at House of Harley Anchorage on Sunday July 30, 2023 as a part of Spenard Bike Week 2023. (spenardbikeweek.com)

The following list are the reasons are why I believe learning and implementing functional fitness yoga into your riding lifestyle:

1. Improved Core Strength:

The core is crucial for motorcyclists as it provides stability and balance while riding. Yoga poses like plank variations, boat pose, and warrior III help strengthen the core muscles, reducing the risk of back pain and improving overall riding control.

2. Enhanced Flexibility:

Motorcyclists often spend long hours in the same riding position, which can lead to stiffness and reduced flexibility. Yoga's stretching exercises target various muscle groups, especially in the hips, hamstrings, and lower back, promoting greater range of motion and decreasing the risk of injuries.

3. Better Balance and Coordination:

Yoga requires practitioners to engage their entire body while maintaining balance in various poses. This can significantly enhance a rider's ability to balance and maneuver the motorcycle, making them more agile on the road.

4. Increased Focus and Mental Clarity:

Riding a motorcycle demands constant attention to the road and surroundings. Yoga's mindfulness and breathing techniques improve concentration, reduce stress, and help motorcyclists stay calm and focused, reducing the risk of accidents caused by distractions.

5. Posture Correction:

Poor posture on a motorcycle can lead to discomfort and fatigue during long rides. Yoga poses like cobra, upward dog, and shoulder openers can counteract the hunched-over position typical of riding, promoting a healthier and more comfortable posture.

Pre-Ride and Post-Ride Routines

1. Pre-Ride Routine:

A short yoga routine before hitting the road can be beneficial for motorcyclists. Focus on exercises that wake up the body, improve circulation, and prepare muscles for the demands of riding. Sun salutations, gentle twists, and hip openers are excellent choices for a pre-ride yoga sequence.

2. Post-Ride Routine:

After a long ride, the body may feel stiff and fatigued. A post-ride yoga routine can help relax tense muscles, increase flexibility, and promote overall recovery. Gentle stretches, forward bends, and restorative poses can be incorporated into the post-ride routine.

Incorporating Functional Fitness Yoga into Daily Life

Beyond pre and post-ride routines, motorcyclists can incorporate functional fitness yoga into their daily lives. A regular yoga practice, even if it's just a few minutes each day, can make a significant difference in overall health, strength, and mental well-being. There are various online resources and apps that offer yoga sessions designed specifically for motorcyclists.

Conclusion

As passionate motorcyclists, we cherish the freedom and excitement of the open road. However, it is essential to prioritize our health and safety on every ride. By incorporating functional fitness yoga routines into our daily lives, we can improve our core strength, flexibility, balance, and focus, all of which contribute to a safer and more enjoyable motorcycling experience. So, let's embrace the power of yoga and ride with confidence, knowing that we are better prepared for whatever the road may bring our way. Namaste and ride safe!