Piccini using yoga to keep flexible and focused

The suspension of footballing activity in Spain has turned the sport upside down -and it has had the same effect on Cristiano Piccini. Alongside his regular training and family time, the Italian has also been practicing plenty of yoga, using the exercise to improve his balance, core endurance and recovery from the injury that has kept him out of action since the early part of the season.

Piccini's passion for yoga began three years ago. Since then, it has formed a regular part of his training plan. Whilst at Sporting CP he found a master who became a close friend, and from whom he learnt a lot about the in-style series of exercises ideal for practicing at home. Piccini uses it as a complement to his regular work, and believes in its benefits.

The main change for the Valencia CF player since he began yoga has been greater muscular elasticity, whilst he is also a strong proponent of the mental peace and balance it provides. "It is about patience and discipline," he told VCF Media, adding that "it can give you a lot, in many aspects."