Tag: yoga

The Lunge Stretch for Tight Hips

May 11, 2013

The Lunge Stretch

This is an excellent basic stretch to help open the hips. If you practice Yoga and have difficulty with hip openers, make the Lunge Stretch part of your regular stretching routine.  This stretch targets the iliopsoas muscle.

Lunge Stretch
Lunge Stretch

How To Do the Lunge Stretch

  1. Get onto all fours.
  2. Bring your right leg forward within your ability. You may have to align your right knee directly under your right hip, unless you have more flexibility, and can bring your leg further back.
  3. Place your hands on either side of your right foot.
  4. Hold the Lunge Stretch for 15 to 20 seconds.
  5. Repeat the stretch on the left side.

How To Modify the Lunch Stretch

  • If you have difficulty reaching the mat, place a Yoga block under each hand.
  • Place a folded towel under your knee for added cushioning.
Yoga Blocks
Yoga Blocks

 Copyright 2013 Irene Pastore and Tour De Core Personal Training

Yoga or Pilates: What’s The Difference?

October 16, 2012
Yoga Class In Downward Dog Pose

Yoga and Pilates share similarities, but their philosophies are not the same.

  • Yoga and Pilates are categorized as Mind/Body disciplines.
  • Shoes are not worn during Yoga or Pilates.
  • Yoga poses and Pilates exercises are performed on a mat.
  • Yoga and Pilates emphasize breathing.
  • Many of the Yoga poses and Pilates exercises look very similar. Continue reading “Yoga or Pilates: What’s The Difference?”

Falling Down An Escalator Isn’t Funny

August 27, 2012

WEAK MUSCLES = AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN

A Stay In The Hospital Is No Joy Ride

Anyone can lose their balance, fall, and injure themselves. Muscular weakness in older adults makes them especially vulnerable to hip fractures, and head trauma from falls. Those who keep their muscles strong and flexible, know that frailty isn’t inevitable with aging.

All Fours Balance Exercise

Brain injuries account for half of all injuries from falls, according to a 2005 study from the Centers For Disease Control. Continue reading “Falling Down An Escalator Isn’t Funny”