Today’s tutorial is the first in our new series: Keepin’ it Real. It’s kind of like Athletes for Yoga myth-busting 101, inspired by all you runners, soccer players, cyclists, and desk jockeys who think you don’t have time to stretch. We realize you’re more interested in your sport (or staying in shape in general) than yoga, so we’re here to help you make a little bit go a long way — and to help you avoid the consequences of failing to maintain your flexibility. While a regular Athletes for Yoga practice is ideal for optimizing your athleticism, we know that won't always fit into your training plan. Here's the good news: You don’t always need an hour-plus, a yoga studio, or even a mat to stay limber. Just 10 minutes (or less!) can have a profound impact on the way you feel and perform. When it comes to stretching, anything is better than nothing!

Try it: Pyramid Hip and Hammy Stretch… in your own kitchen!

You crushed your workout, enjoyed your shower, and got your grub on. You’re ready to call it a solid day when — eek! — your cramping hammies remind you that you forgot to stretch. Whoops.

No big deal! Rather than throwing your hands up, head to your kitchen counter, bathroom sink, or any plain old wall and hit up our one of our fave poses to stretch your outer hips and hammies — because no matter what your sport, these guys definitely need some lovin’.

Head to your kitchen and put the kettle on (might as well make it a ginger tea as that helps tame inflammation in the body).
Stand facing your counter or a wall.
Step your right foot a few feet in front of the left and rest your palms on the edge of the counter so that your arms and torso are parallel to the floor — you might find you have to move your feet further back from the cabinets.
Keep the heel of your back foot heavy and lengthen your spine — as if your hands are glued to the wall while someone is pulling your hips away from the wall.
Press more into your right hand and move your right hip away from your right shoulder — as if you’re lengthening the right side of your body more.
Hold for 5 – 7 deep breaths and then switch sides — you’ll be done before your tea is ready!

To add on a calf stretch —

Keep everything the same but add a soup can under the ball of your right foot.
Press your right heel toward the floor without locking your right knee.
Focus on the stretch in your right calf for a few deep breathes before you start to press your right hip away from your right shoulder.
Remember, when it comes to stretching, anything is better than nothing! So make this your mantra and get it done in your living room, in your jeans, or while you’re pumping gas.

You get the idea... even if you don't drink team, spending just a few strategic moments stretching — holding on the phone, pumping gas, waiting for the pasta water to boil — is way better than nothing when you can't get to a class. We're just as guilty as you... (as demonstrated) we just make up for it in sneaky ways...

Stay tuned for more tips on how to Keep it Real to keep your body limber. In the meantime, we want to know: What are your sneaky stretches?!

Technique Tuesday — Pyramid... in your own kitchen!