The summer is the most popular time for fitness enthusiasts to put on their trainers and head for the hills, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful sunshine. However, if you’re feeling a bit stiff after not stretching your legs all winter, it is worth turning to yoga, as it has been shown to be beneficial for running.

Yoga itself has many benefits, including improving strength and balance, relieving back pain, easing arthritis symptoms, boosting cardiovascular health and lowering stress levels. However, it is also good to practice different forms of exercise, not only to test your muscles, but as enjoying your workouts will ensure consistency.

Doing one form of exercise over and over again may become boring, and if you stop enjoying it, you are more likely to quit altogether. By doing a variety of exercises, there is a greater chance you will continue with all of them indefinitely.

So those who love running should make the most of the better weather and longer days and use their strength, flexibility and agility acquired through their yoga practice to improve their jogging style.

According to Runner’s World, yoga can support runners in many ways, from reducing tightness in the hips and hamstrings to improving posture, alignment and stability.

Jay Polsgrove, lead author of a study published in the International Journal of Yoga, said: “[Yoga] gives you an understanding of internal body alignment and you learn more about how you move and gain a deeper understanding of how to maximise your performance.”

Bikram yoga, otherwise known as hot yoga, is particularly good for those just getting back into running, as it loosens tight muscles to prevent injury. The heated room helps muscles to relax, reducing stiffness before the next run.

To find yoga classes near me, take a look here.