The yoga boys of Maadi

Yoga does not immediately spring to mind at Maadi – but it has a part to play.

Saint Peter’s college rowing team limber up with a  yoga session Photo: Bhaumik Shukla

Auckland-based Saint Peters College boys’ team has one point of difference  before getting on the water – they are all into yoga.

The entire team have practised yoga since they were introduced to the Hindu spiritual and ascetic discipline by the mother of a squad member.

Yoga instructor Nicci helped  the team for a couple of days last year and they have followed up on that with weekly  sessions since January.

Team coach Cameron Pattron said yoga helped rowers focus on race day.

“We just noticed it could be beneficial for the team. In rowing flexibility is a huge aid in injury prevention.”

Nicci said yoga sessions were really  profitable.

“Boys have the big gap during the season and  yoga keeps them relaxed and focused.”