It’s a common scenario—when experiencing pain, tension, or muscle aches, our first thought is to try to stretch it out (yep, we’re looking at you, stiff hammies 😜). But have you ever noticed that approach typically only offers temporary relief? Well, friends, that’s probably because the underlying issue usually isn’t due to a lack of flexibility. For lasting results, experts recommend strengthening the affected area because more often than not, strength – not flexibility – is the answer to alleviating pain, easing tension, preventing injury, as well as improving mobility and quality of life.
So if you’ve been stretching and stretching and nothing is changing, try incorporating strength training into your life.
But you don’t have to take my word for it.
In the week’s podcast episode, I chat with Trisha Durham. With over two decades of experience in ashtanga vinyasa yoga, Trisha has transitioned from a traditional yoga teacher to a multifaceted movement trainer. Her journey began when she was faced burnout and physical pain, realizing that relying solely on yoga for all her movement needs was not enough and the rigid emphasis on flexibility and alignment did not align with the inclusive and sustainable practice she envisioned.
It wasn’t until she started strength training in her 40s, specifically barbell training, that she experienced lasting relief from her debilitating back pain that had persisted in spite of decades of practicing yoga.
In this conversation, we discuss the importance of movement variety and specifically strength training for women’s they age—a population that has historically been deterred from or not exposed to lifting heavy weights. We also highlight the misconceptions around flexibility, discuss the benefits of barbell training, and encourages listeners to consider strength training as a modality to enhance longevity, improve mobility, and aid in injury prevention.
It’s never too late to start strength training!
- When it comes to managing pain, helping people move is more important than perfecting poses.
- Functional movement is key to resilience and pain-free living.
- Flexibility alone is not a cure-all for physical issues.
- Strength training can alleviate chronic pain and improve mobility.
- Barbell training is accessible and beneficial for everyone.
- Integrating different movement modalities enhances overall fitness.
- Yoga can complement strength training rather than replace it.
- It’s never too late to start strength training. Strength training is now encouraged for everyone.
- Variety in movement is crucial for longevity in activity and life.
- Mobility is essential for functional movement, not just flexibility.
- Progressive strength training can prevent injuries in daily life.
- Unlearning outdated fitness beliefs can lead to better health outcomes.
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What topics would you like to see us cover in upcoming episodes? —Alison
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