"It ain't over til it's over."
Wait a minute, that was Yogi. Not yoga.
Nonetheless, that six-word sentiment applies to those hour-long sessions at
your local health club, the classes where it would appear the involved members
are twisting their bodies into some excruciating positions - or perhaps we
should say 'pretzels'.
But the next time you scuffle past the aerobics room and peek an eye through
the window, asking yourself, "What in the world are they doing in there,"
perhaps it's time to learn a thing or two about the fastest-growing phase
in American fitness.
Yoga classes are becoming as common in American health clubs as sweat and
testosterone, a timeless exercise regimen that is in the midst of a serious
revamping phase.
While the common conception of yoga is that it is a meditation-type exercise,
designed specifically for women, this couldn't be further from the truth.
Yoga is a growing, widespread fad, an exercise aimed at increasing flexibility,
toning and shaping the muscles, improving posture, and giving an overall better
sense of self being for both men and women alike. In fact, take a peek into
the aerobics room next time a yoga class is commencing. The proof is with
all the men who are turning out for these intriguing sessions.
Check out these yoga forms and see which ones are offered at your health club:
HATHA YOGA: This is the one that's offered at most places, the standard style
that blends stretching and toning of the muscles with extensive breathing
exercises. In other words, this is a perfect blend of various yoga concepts,
focusing on both the mind and the body and helping you get the two in synch
with one another.
IYENGAR YOGA: This is the style of yoga that focuses on the body's alignment,
helping you to achieve proper posture good overall balance in your body. This
is a great yoga form for runners and serious athletes, a form that is more
geared for the physical elements.
ASHTANGA YOGA: This is also commonly referred to as "power yoga," a growing
style of yoga that is considered far more rigorous than the other forms. In
ashtanga yoga, you a quickly delving from one posture to another, and it can
be so physically demanding at times, many people consider it an effective
form of cardio. This style of yoga is becoming extremely popular among Hollywood
celebrities.
KUNDALINI: Whereas ashtanga and iyengar styles of yoga are more geared for
the physical challenges, this is the more "relaxing" form of yoga. In kundalini
classes, participants are focusing on meditation, breathing exercises, and
stress reduction.
Aside from providing all the great benefits (flexibility, balance, muscle
tone, stress relief, etc.), yoga can also spree another grand treasure, one
that can be strongly enhanced with the right instructor: Yes, yoga can be
a blast.
But remember, many yoga classes offered at your gym may charge you a fee of
around $10 for an hour-long session.
Author: HSF Vitamins
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