The benefits of yoga for men

Yoga’s long-overdue ‘male-over’ means you can improve your body and mind – without the chanting. "These poses can be done every day – tree pose, multiple times,” says Sidoti. “Breathe into the stretch and always consider any injuries you have: ‘no pain, no gain’ does not apply."

Correct your desk top hunch

Chest and shoulder stretch

2min each side

Lie face-down. Don’t get too comfortable. Bring your right arm perpendicular to your body. Now push with your left arm until you feel a stretch across your chest, shoulder, bicep and forearm. Ride the wave of discomfort; swap sides.

The benefit

Opened-up pecs and shoulders to counterbalance all those ‘chest weeks’ and correct your Qwerty Quasimodo posture.

Relieve tight hip flexors

Low crescent lunge

2min each side

Get into a lunge position. Slide your back knee further back and front knee just beyond your ankle. You should feel it in your rear thigh, hip flexors and abs. Interlace your fingers behind your back to open your chest and shoulders.

The benefit

Greater range of motion in the gym, and fewer lower back strains and hamstring twangs. “This pose will benefit every man.” says Sidoti.

Poor balance

Tree pose with eagle arms

30sec-1min each side

Lift one foot and place it on the inside of your leg, below or above the knee, not on it. Cross your arms so your elbows are on top of each other, twisting your forearms so your palms touch. Too easy? Close one eye. Then chill.

The benefit

Strong roots, an unknotted upper back and increased focus and relaxation – just so long as you don’t faceplant. Now you’re good to bro.

Words: Jack Dyson; Illustration: James Carey at Debut Art