Many elite athletes are turning to an unexpected tool to improve their performance: yoga.
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Kaylea Snaer, a former standout player for LSU Softball and the SEC’s all-time doubles record holder. Kaylea shares how incorporating yoga and breathwork into her training helped strengthen her mind-body connection, support recovery, and build greater confidence on and off the field.
This conversation explores how athletes can use practices like yoga to complement traditional training and improve overall performance.
The Mind-Body Connection in Sports
Athletic performance isn’t just about strength and skill — it also relies on awareness and control.
Kaylea explains how yoga helped her become more in tune with her body, improving balance, flexibility, and focus. By strengthening the connection between the mind and body, athletes can move more efficiently and perform with greater confidence.
This awareness can translate directly into better performance during competition.
Why Recovery Matters for Athletes
Recovery is one of the most important — and often overlooked — parts of training.
Kaylea discusses how yoga can help athletes recover both physically and mentally. Stretching, controlled breathing, and mindful movement allow athletes to release tension, improve mobility, and prepare their bodies for the next training session or game.
When athletes prioritize recovery, they are better able to maintain consistency throughout the season.
Using Breathwork to Stay Calm and Focused
Breathing is something athletes do naturally, but intentional breathwork can become a powerful performance tool.
Kaylea shares how controlled breathing techniques can help athletes manage nerves, reset during stressful moments, and stay present in competition. These simple practices allow athletes to approach challenges with greater clarity and composure.
A Training Tool for Every Athlete
Whether someone is an experienced yogi or completely new to the practice, Kaylea believes yoga can benefit athletes at every level.
Incorporating even small elements of yoga and breathwork into training routines can help athletes develop better body awareness, improve recovery, and build the confidence needed to compete at their best.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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How yoga strengthens the mind-body connection for athletes
Improving awareness, balance, and focus. -
Why recovery is essential for consistent performance
Supporting the body through mobility and restoration. -
How breathwork can improve focus and composure
Managing stress and staying present in competition. -
Why many elite athletes include yoga in their routines
Enhancing both physical and mental performance. -
Simple ways athletes can start incorporating yoga into training
Building habits that support long-term success.
About
Kaylea Snaer
Kaylea Snaer is a former LSU softball standout and the SEC’s all-time doubles record holder. Known for her competitive spirit and offensive consistency, she built an impressive collegiate career while competing at one of the highest levels of college softball.
Today, Kaylea continues to share her passion for health, wellness, and performance by helping athletes explore practices like yoga and breathwork to strengthen both their physical and mental game.
