You’ve made the decision to start practicing yoga at last, but after looking up local classes on Google, your brain is spinning. Should you practice Iyengar or Ashtanga? And what distinguishes hot yoga from vinyasa? The variety of choices might be enough to deter you from the mat permanently.
There are Yoga classes for all and sundry. But how do you go about choosing from the options available? Here is a comprehensive list of yoga programs, as well as advice on figuring out which yoga style is right for you.
1. Ashtanga Yoga
Try Ashtanga if you want a demanding yet structured style of yoga. You will move and breathe during each pose to increase your body’s internal temperature during the six series of poses that are specifically ordered. You’ll enjoy Ashtanga’s schedule and stringent rules if you’re a perfectionist.
2. Vinyasa Yoga
Get into the flow with this dynamic workout that fuses breath and movement in a manner akin to dancing. You won’t stay in each pose for very long in most programs, and the tempo must change quickly, so be ready for your heart rate to increase. Teachers frequently play music while students practice poses, matching the beats to the movements.
Since Vinyasa moves more quickly, intense exercisers can find it appealing. Vinyasa classes are extremely popular with runners and endurance athletes because of the constant movement.
3. Iyengar Yoga
Here, you’ll become picky about accuracy and detail as well as the alignment of your body in each position. Your new best buddy will be a set of tools, such as straps, a rope wall, or yoga blocks and blankets, which will enable you to move safely and effectively within your range of motion.
You’ll appreciate Iyengar if you enjoy learning about movement, and form.
4. Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga sessions are frequently seen as a more mild style of yoga in studios. But “Hatha” in Sanskrit actually refers to any form of yoga that teaches physical postures. It is a physical exercise that balances these two energies in the body.
Hatha is an excellent class to start your yoga practice because of its comfortable tempo.
5. Restorative Yoga
In a restorative yoga class, you might not feel like you’re accomplishing much, but that’s the goal. Longer holds and a calm, gentle practice let your body access your parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in a deeper state of relaxation.
This is best for everyone and anyone who finds it difficult to calm down, who has had trouble sleeping, or who battles anxiety.
6. Hot Yoga
Similar to Bikram, hot yoga is performed in a heated space. However, the 26-pose Bikram sequence is not a restriction for teachers. While the heat will give you the impression that you can go deeper into some positions than in a class that isn’t heated, be careful not to overextend yourself because it’s easy to do.
Enroll in this class if you enjoy a challenging workout that will leave you soaked with sweat.
7. Kundalini Yoga
This demanding exercise has a totally different appearance from a conventional yoga class both physically and mentally. You will engage in chanting, singing, and meditation in addition to repetitive physical exercises called kriyas that are combined with severe breath work.
Due to its focus on the interior elements of yoga, such as breath practice, meditation, and spiritual energy, Kundalini may appeal to those looking for more than just a workout.
8. Bikram Yoga
Bikram yoga involves a set of 26 poses and two breathing exercises that must be performed in a room that is heated to about 105 degrees and humidified to 40 percent, so get ready to perspire. Keep in mind that the class may feel exhausting due to the heat and the intense exercise.
Due to its well-defined routine, Bikram yoga may appeal to those who are new to the practice.
9. Yin Yoga
In contrast to an Ashtanga practice that moves more quickly, Yin yoga positions are held for several minutes at a time. Your deeper connective tissues will be the focus of this meditation, which will also help to restore flexibility. Similar to meditation, it could make you restless at first, but if you stick with it for a few lessons, you might become addicted to its restorative effects.
This is Ideal for those who need to relax and stretch. Remember that Yin yoga is not advised for those with extreme flexibility.
