Biomechanics

The biomechanics of the human body deal with the application of mechanic principles to the movements, forces and structures of the human body. In the field of yoga, an understanding of biomechanics is crucial to safely and effectively perform exercises and positions. This includes proper alignment of joints, strengthening muscles to support joints, and avoiding injuries from overuse or poor technique. The biomechanical principles of the human body and the classic asana alignment established by B.K.B. Iyengar serve as the basis of the asana alignment I teach. However, my teachings go beyond the asana alignment taught in Iyengar yoga (see article on alignment as well).

In my group classes (yoga & pelvic/hip mobility) and private sessions, I also use the principles of biomechanics in my work to identify postural problems and asymmetries in the body and help my students to correct them with suitable exercises. In a group setting, this means that I will incorporate general posture exercises that are beneficial for everyone and that target the most common issues. And on an individualized private level, this means that I offer a complete biomechanical assessment (online or in-person) of your own body, which gives me information about the exact functionality of the joints. From the results, I will then establish an exercise program specifically designed for you.

An understanding of biomechanics can also help improve performance by allowing movements to be carried out more effectively and efficiently and developing targeted training for specific areas of the body. If you have taken my classes before, you might have noticed it because I often teach to engange muscles in a specific way that might be counterintuitive and often feels more challenging than the engagement that you would naturally choose for your body.

In general I pay a lot of attention to details during my classes because the small changes often have a huge impact on how beneficial the asana or exercise is for you.