| Yoga for Volleyball team |
| Tuesday, 20 September 2011 | |
 In May 2011 I was approached by Kamal Hammoutène, a coach of the female D2 team at “US Volleybal Amsterdam”. Having tried Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga with UK teacher Scott Johnson, Kamal was assured it to be of a helpful tool to his team’s training.There were two aspects, which were of a particular interest to Kamal: - Physical: working on flexibility and core strength to aid serving the ball, jumping and diving down to get the ball - Mental: developing an ability to quickly gain a level of relaxation, awareness and centeredness during the game We have agreed on weekly Ashtanga Yoga sessions, which would be at the end of the girls’ volleyball training. On my first day I purposely arrived slightly earlier to watch the future team I was to work with. They girls were young, mostly in their twenties, very energetic, driven and strong. The training was intense; girls were running and jumping around, shouting out their team cheers. By observing their movements, the first thing I noticed was their very tight hamstrings, which showed when the ball had to be picked up from the floor. The second thing which I thought was worth on concentrating on was development of shoulder joint as its mobility enabled better amplitude when serving the ball. The third observation was about their core strength (what in yoga is related with 2 “bandhas” or energy locks) – it was clear to me that awareness and strength in the core of their bodies would immensely help them to jump higher to reach out for the ball. During several consecutive sessions we have learnt the basic asanas of Ashtanga yoga and have tried some simple breathing exercises (in yoga called “pranayama”). The girls’ commitment showed pretty much at the first class - they did their best to deal with their stiff bodies and took it seriously. We have discovered that the most areas, which required work, were: short hamstrings, stiff shoulders and backs, weak core muscles and difficulties with breathing. After several “trial classes” we broke for the summer with the idea that the team will discuss whether yoga was useful for them and if they are to continue their training with me. In September me and Kamal have met again and I was delighted enough to hear that they are willing to continue their yoga quest! It was obvious to me that during these several sessions that we had, the team has come to understand the many benefits that yoga has got to offer. I have E-mailed them to give some feedback on our sessions, and below you can read some reactions. - Merel claimed yoga could help to relax and prepare for a game mentally. She felt that the body could learn so quickly and in several sessions she felt three times as flexible. - Jolien shared that she felt an increased flexibility, so more movements were possible. She mentioned the mental part as during practice she had to find strength, but at the same time feel very relaxed. My classes are going to be taken over by Agnes Vissering, I wish both the team and Agnes good luck! |