OK we admit it! We’re not basketball fans! But LeBron James you have wooed us so, we may have to pawn our stamp collection to buy an HD TV just so we can watch you play. Too far? Well you remember last month when the LeBrog was spotted at a elementary school teaching yoga to starry-eyed kiddles (on a yoga mat with his name on it!). Adorable! Today we came across a more detailed article on LeBron’s fondness for yoga as a part of his pre-hab/ rehab fitness regimen. And honestly, we’re probably in love. Yogi athletes are the sports stars 2.0+.
We’re pretty sure no one will forget Kareem Abdul-Jabar’s connection with yoga, like ever, as long as Bikram has his way. But unlike Kareem and Bikram’s disciples, Lebron believes in downward dog. Also, Vajrasana, Virasana and even Salamba Sarvangasana.
“Yoga isn’t just about the body, it’s also about the mind, and it’s a technique that has really helped me,” James said. “You do have to focus because there’s some positions that can really hurt you at times if you aren’t focused and breathing right.”
Ahh yes, just like life LeBron. We float about and can really hurt ourselves if we forget to breathe. Gah, he’s soo wise. sigh.
Well sure, athletes have always had some sort of vigorous training program (though we’ve always wondered about some baseball players – why are they still chubs?). Basketball in particular does wonders for arms and legs strengthening, but when looking for core and balance, yoga has become key. Besides helping to strengthen the oft overlooked yet vital human parts like ankles, shoulders and hips. Serious athletes are serious about elongating their career (and keeping that cash flow), which means they’re pretty serious about yoga, cause it’s awesome! and cause of the reasons we mentioned above.
Other Pro-Baller facts you may not have known:
In recent years, Shaquille O’Neal has used it at times to increase flexibility in his legs. Phil Jackson, who is famous for his alternative techniques, used it as a player to help with back problems and had the Bulls go through a series of yoga classes throughout the 1997-98 championship season.
“I’ve been blessed with a lot of physical talent and a strong body,” James said. “I have focused on working hard to maximize those gifts.”
Keep maximizing the gifts, man. Go Cavaliers!
