We know what you must be thinking… How can practicing yoga be at all related to motorcycling? Initially, these two activities may seem completely unrelated, however, there are surprisingly many reasons why yoga can be incredibly beneficial for bikers – especially those who ride long-distance routes regularly. Read on to learn how practicing yoga can enhance your motorcycle skills to create a better riding experience.

1.     Builds Balance and Stability

Any motorcyclist knows that riding uneven, bumpy roads on a highway at high speed can be a challenge, especially when navigating other vehicles along the way. The same could be said about maneuvering winding roads on a bike as well. Knowing how to work your motorcycle is one thing, but getting through these rides successfully also requires a great deal of balance and stability from the rider. Learning how to balance your body correctly to achieve various poses is one of the main focuses when practicing yoga. This type of exercise allows the mind to completely connect to the body’s movements, increasing bodily awareness – an ability that is also important for all motorcyclists while on the road.

2.     Enhances Flexibility

Did you know that the various stretching exercises practiced in yoga are actually helpful in terms of making your body less prone to injury? While motorcyclists may not be doing splits while riding a bike, they do need a certain level of flexibility to be able to properly mold their bodies when changes in circumstances on the road demand it. After all, the more flexible your body is, the more control you will have over your motorcycle. Adding yoga stretches to your daily routine will help open your muscles and increase your body’s range of motion to ultimately be able to ride smoother and shift your weight back and forth with ease.

3.     Strengthens the Core

Core stability is essential for motorcyclists who ride their bikes for many hours at a time. Again, this circles back to having total control over your bike in any situation. The core is one of the main areas that is focused on while practicing yoga exercises. Furthermore, having a strong core also reinforces the muscles around the spine, resulting in increased protection of your back.

4.     Relaxes the Body and Mind

There’s no doubt that stress can lead to all sorts of distractions while on the road. That being said, having both a relaxed mind and body makes all the difference. Riding a motorcycle requires both physical and mental focus. It is essential to be mentally alert while on your bike in order to be able to react to any unexpected scenarios and avoid accidents. In addition, releasing any tension in your body will also make for a better riding experience.

While practicing yoga is great for flexibility and strength, it also is an incredible way to calm your mind and body alike. Along with numerous poses that encourage serenity, there are also a variety of breathing exercises that are worked into yoga practices that ultimately help the body and mind remain composed and focused. The more you practice these exercises, the more you can utilize the same skills while riding to increase your ability to block out distractions and concentrate on the road ahead.