It can be easy to forget that exercise isn’t just about the squats, presses, and traditional lifts, but also the fluid and free motions that allow for more balance in the body and mind. Studies have shown that non-linear movement practices like yoga and Tai Chi offer a variety of health benefits, including balance, flexibility and even decreasing inflammation.
The National Institute on Aging emphasizes that training balance and flexibility are just as important for adults as strength and endurance to ensure longevity. Training these qualities also offers a chance to diversify your workouts and escape the monotony of a routine. Training for better hand-eye coordination, flexibility or functionality can take many shapes and forms — exercises can be fast-paced and physically demanding or slow and controlled — and the style of each workout will vary from method to method.