ORLANDO, Fla. -

Triathletes, marathoners and exercise fanatics all flock to yoga for relaxation and pain relief.

But recent research shows that many, especially men, are ending up with muscle strain and injury from the yoga.

David Harrington is one of them.

Active is an understatement when describing Harrington. His friends even joke that he is superhuman.

Harrington is an accomplished runner whose completed countless marathons, half-marathons, a triathlon and even plays softball. On top of all of his running, he does strength training at a gym and began going to yoga classes regularly about six months ago.

"I was very misinformed when it came to yoga," said Harrington, "I thought it was just a hot room with a bunch of people who just kind of stretched."

His lack of knowledge going into the practice coupled with a competitive edge could be the cause of a recent injury.

Harrington said he pulled his hamstring after going about his movements a little haphazardly. The injury was minor enough that it healed with rest and recovery, but it kept him from running for a few weeks.

"Triathletes and marathoners are really good at hiding their competitiveness. They are used to being under pressure and appearing calm," said Theresa Curameng who owns and instructs yoga at College Park Yoga with her husband Calvin.

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Yoga can cause pain, strain to athletes