Yoga: Good enough for cross training?

[WhoIsRunnerGirl]

I'm training for my first marathon and I'm not sure how much to do on my XT days. Here's my training schedule: http://whoisrunnergirl.com/?page_id=12

I am really into yoga at the moment and I usually do 25 min exercise after a long run to cool down and stretch.

Is it enough to just do like an hour to an hour and a half of yoga on my XT days or should I do something that raises my heartrate more?

Runner Girl
Who Is Runner Girl?
http://whoisrunnergirl.com

[GTF]

Yoga is a poor substitute for running.

[denton]

if it means doing yoga rather than hitting the gym (and when u go to the gym you do no 'cardio' then) then yes. If it means not running then no. Use it as an addition. I've found (I do Bikram yoga) that is is excellent for all those things runners tend be lazy at doing (egs stretching, core facilitation)

[Ryan]

Post-run yoga might be a good way to do some stretching and core strengthening as long as it doesn't cut into your running time. As for cross-training, if you have a need to cross-train instead of just using the time to run - which will lead to better running results - I'd suggest something involving more cardio work such as cycling, deep water running, or swimming.

[racetraining]

Why not yoga? 

Flexibility is important to maintain as you age.

Core strength always a good one.

Breathing deeply and relaxed.

I do one hour a week of yoga.  But also do additional leg stability exercises and core work.

Use your additional non-running workouts to work on your weaknesses.

As always you should try to max out your running limits of what your body can handle before substituting other workouts for conditioning.  Runners need to Run.