It is well-known fact that yoga does not require weight lifting. Some particular yoga poses make it possible to increase muscle mass as they help in breaking muscle fibres.

A well-toned body is something that everybody desires. For gaining more muscle and maintaining a lean body; weight lifting is considered as an essential part of daily routine. However, muscle gain is possible through yoga as well. It is well-known fact that yoga does not require weight lifting. Some particular yoga poses make it possible to increase muscle mass as they help in breaking muscle fibres.

Yoga poses that help in gaining muscle

Here are some yoga asanas/poses that particularly help in gaining muscle while making it possible to break fat cells.

 

Virabhadrasana:

The warrior pose

It depicts the posture of a warrior. Virabhadrasana was the name of a Hindu soldier. Virabhadrasana is an excellent posture for beginners. This pose can be practised in the morning on a fasted stomach. If it is practised in the daytime, make sure the stomach has been empty for at least 8 hours. For better results, the posture should be maintained for at least 10 seconds. It helps to tone up chest, back and stomach. It also provides strength and flexibility to lower back and arm muscles. It is considered a full body workout as it also stretches thighs and calve mucles improving flexibility and movement. This posture is also advised for hypertensive patients as it improves blood circulation.

Sethu Bandhasana:

Bridge Pose

As the name depicts, this pose resembles a bridge. It can be practised in the morning or in the evening. Make sure to hold your breath while doing Sethu Bandhasana. This is also a beginner level posture so even someone who is new to yoga can manage this position without too much effort. The challenge is to remain in the same posture for at least 40 to 50 seconds. This asana helps in gaining muscles as it stretches chest and spine muscles. It is also advised for thyroid patients, chronic sinusitis patients and asthma patients.

 

Bhujangasana:

The cobra pose

It resembles the posture of the snake. It should be practised with clean bowels and in a fasted state. It is the part of Surya Namaskar set of yoga postures. The posture should be maintained for about 15 to 30 seconds. This asana/posture helps in toning shoulders and abdomen while regulating blood circulation, improving flexibility and stimulating kidney filteration.

 

Salama Sirasana:

Headstand

It is a difficult posture. Only experts can do it after a lot of practice. The entire weight of the body is put on the shoulder and head. It should be practised in the fasted state. The most difficult part of this asana is maintaining it for at least three minutes. It works on the muscles of the lung, arms and legs. It tones abdominal muscles. It is recommended for patients suffering from sinusitis and insomnia. It also improves blood flow toward the brain.

 

It is a common belief that yoga doesn’t help in muscle building. However, this is not entirely true. Yoga is as important for muscle development as any weight oriented exercise. Not only does yoga help in toning a body but also increased muscle and core body strength.