Practice

Bow pose (Dhanurasana) is a mainstay back bending pose, and a gentler, upside-down alternative to its sister asana, the Wheel (Urdhva Dhanurasana).

Pilates and yoga are often lumped together, despite fundamental differences in approach and history. But, as Sally Parkes - who teaches both - explains, they are also complementary.

There are many variations of Wide Leg Forward Bend (Prasarita Padottanasana) - all help increase strength and flexibility in the legs and spine, open the hips and tone the abdominal organs.

Most people recognise Tree pose (Vrksa) as one of the classic yoga asanas. A standing balance pose, Tree pose is grounding and rooting, requiring leg strength, balance and focus.

A while ago, ex-professional dancer and yoga teacher Anne-Marie Newland was approached by a keen boxer for yoga lessons. The benefits of a regular yoga practice to boxers can be far-reaching, Newland says here.