Cricket is a very demanding and exhausting sport and it can take a physical toll on an individual’s body. Physical fitness needs to be taken seriously if an individual wants to be recognised as a good cricketer. Yoga asanas are perfect for improving stability and flexibility. It also stretches the muscles out to relax the body.
Due to pace of cricket, common injuries occur, and this is due to stiffness in the body. By performing yoga every day, it allows the vertebrae to stretch which makes the individual more flexible. Yoga makes players flexible, stronger and more robust. In a regular workout, only 10-15% of an individual’s body is used but in yoga all of the muscles and joints are exercised.
It does not only improve the body, but it improves the mind. Yoga relaxes the nervous system, which as a result, reduces stress on the mind. Physical yoga poses and meditation play a part in helping an individual lower their heart rate and their stress hormone (cortisol). In turn this benefits the mind.
In cricket there is a need of connecting the bat and ball together through the mind. Yoga increases concentration, power and better focusing.
3 yoga asanas that benefit cricketers
Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon)
- Start in a straight standing position
- Slowly bend forward and touch the ground with your palms whilst still standing up
- Press your weight into your left foot and raise the right leg behind you so it is in line with the ground
- Slowly twist tour body and move your right arm up to the ceiling
- Hold this position for between 10 and 30 seconds and repeat 24 times, alternating sides
Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
- Start the position by sitting on the floor with your legs extended out in front of you
- Whilst inhaling, stretch you arms up and above your head
- Then whilst exhaling, slowly stretch forward and hold your feet with your hands.
- Remember to keep your legs straight and hold the position for between 20 and 30 seconds. Repeat this position for 24 times
Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)
- Start standing up in a straight position
- Whilst inhaling bend down and hold your feet with your hands. If you can’t reach your feet, you can always hold your ankles, whatever feels comfortable
- Whilst keeping your legs straight, bring you head in and close to your knees.
- Hold this position for between 20 and 40 seconds. Repeat this position 24 times.
If an individual performs these positions daily it will help prevent body from major injuries and help injuries heal at a faster pace. Spine health, muscle strength and ligament strength can all be improved with these positions. Over time individuals should have increased flexibility and stability that assists them with cricket.