Yoga teacher Jenni Rawlings and Exercise Science professor Travis Pollen are joined by Matthew Huy, MSc to discuss his recent dissertation: “Language, Fear, and Science in the Yoga Studio”. Matthew is a longtime yoga teacher and an anatomy and physiology teacher in yoga teacher trainings worldwide. He also holds a master’s degree in Exercise Science and is the co-author of the book The Physiology of Yoga, published by Human Kinetics in June 2022.

Points of discussion include:

• How can the yoga world improve its scientific literacy?
• What type of content has historically been included in yoga anatomy/physiology modules of yoga teacher training programs?
• The fact that nearly all popular yoga anatomy books do not include scientific references
• What is the hierarchy or pyramid of scientific evidence?
• The impact that the infamous New York Times article How Yoga Can Wreck Your Body by William Broad had on societal perceptions of yoga
• What is a nocebo and how is it different from a placebo?
• Do forward folds in yoga cause “yoga butt” (proximal hamstring tendinopathy)?
• Is placing the foot on the knee in tree pose (vrksasana) injurious?
• If we flex and extend our spine repeatedly, can it snap like a credit card?
• The research-based connection between psychological beliefs and pain
• The potential that yoga teachers have to influence students’ beliefs via the language they use when teaching
• Should pain be avoided during exercise?
• …And much more!

Enjoy this engaging and eye-opening discussion for yoga, movement, and fitness geeks!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Order Matt Huy and co-author Andrew McGonigle’s book The Physiology of Yoga

Matt Huy’s website / Instagram

Jenni’s email newsletter

Strength for Yoga Remote Group Training – ongoing, interactive monthly strength program for yogis designed by Jenni & Travis

Online yoga class library & yoga anatomy workshops with Jenni

Strength for Yoga email newsletter

New York Times article: How Yoga Can Wreck Your Body

Huffington Post article: Stop Stretching Your Hamstrings!

To find out more about Travis Pollen: website / Instagram

Music used with generous permission from Dischord A Cappella.

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