On Yoga Butt 🙄, Foot on Knee, and Stretching Science

Host Matthew Huy interviews Jules Mitchell, author of Yoga Biomechanics: Stretching Redefined, about her journey in yoga and biomechanics. They discuss how scientific principles enhance yoga practice, focusing on biomechanics, tissue mechanics, and stretch tolerance’s impact on range of motion. The conversation highlights current research on stretching, hypertrophy, and pain management, offering valuable insights for yoga teachers. Jules stresses the need for research literacy and practical application in yoga instruction. She also shares strategies for managing hamstring tendinopathy and explains the role of load in tissue recovery. The episode wraps up by exploring how to balance the integration of scientific knowledge with the magic and experiential aspects of yoga.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast
00:27 Meet Jules Mitchell: Journey into Biomechanics
05:27 The Importance of Biomechanics in Yoga
07:06 Understanding Forces and Tissue Mechanics
11:41 Debunking Myths: Foot Placement in Tree Pose
18:18 The Role of Science and Research Literacy in Yoga
28:26 Diving into Stretching Research
30:09 Pain and Stretch Tolerance
33:51 Exploring Hypertrophy
39:50 Understanding Hamstring Tendinopathy
48:24 Yoga Teacher’s Role in Managing Tendinopathy
50:03 Closing Thoughts and Resources