Question for the Pros!!

While I am not a Pro, I play one on O.H.
What they said!
It is core body work which is great.  I just read a great article that emphasized how core work can actually help overcome any poor running form you may have.  By having a strong core your body posture stays good which can help de-emphasize any gait problems or stride abnormalities you have.  It reduces the stress on the rest of your body.

The theory was weak ankle causes weak kneee, causes week hips causes unstable core etc like dominos and it all transfers to the rest of the body.
By being strong in the core you are able to stop that transfer of weakness and prevent transfer injuries.

Besides any type of activity that improves your general health and physical well being is good for you.  If done properly it can only be a plus and it's certainly better than not getting anything done.

At least in my non-professional opinion

Scott

Thanks for all the info. I do find that running and yoga complement each other very well. The pigeon pose for instance, opens the hips and is a great stretch for the piriformis which I have had issues with when running.

Jet

Echoing all the yay yoga, good for core strength, good for running posts above!  I have been battling a hip and foot injury for about 6 months now, haven't been able to run since my last half in January and I am doing physical therapy now for it.  And what are we focusing on solely?  Building up core strength so the hips are strong, so the knees are strong, so the ankles are strong so the foot is strong.  In addition to the exercises they make me do, they highly recommended I start back up with the yoga again.  Therefore, I second yoga as a most excellent choice for cross-training.

Keep up the good work!

Rebecca