A virtual wellness program offered by the National Institute for Fitness and Sport and provided to you through your employer.

Yoga - Which Type is Right for Me?

Thought about pursuing yoga to meet your fitness needs? 

You are certainly not alone!  Yoga has become increasingly popular as it emphasizes mind/body activities and awareness.  Not only does it help to tone and build muscle, but it is a wonderful reliever of stress.  Today, you can choose from a huge variety of yoga classes to suit your needs, goals and fitness levels. 

These different types of yoga styles vary from more powerful and intense to more relaxing and soothing.  Choose from the 5 most popular types below to help you find a class fit for your mind, body, and soul.

Ashtanga

Ashtanga yoga, or Power Yoga, is marked by a series of postures that flow together to create constant movement.  The goal is to focus on muscular endurance and flexibility.  The poses require a more advanced fitness level and some additional upper body strength.  Those experienced exercisers might have difficult completing every pose the first time out.  Be prepared for sweat and heavy breathing!

Bikram

This type of yoga emphasizes more flexibility and breathing exercises.  It is anchored by a series of 13 standing and 13 sitting asanas featuring specific breathing techniques and exercises.

Bikram is believed to benefit those experiencing arthritis and chronic back pain.  These yoga classes are often conducted in temperatures of 105 degrees and 60% humidity.  Thus, be prepared for extreme temperatures. 

Iyengar

Iyengar emphasizes skeletal alignment with static poses and uses props to help correct body alignment...thought to be perfect for those rehabilitating an injury.  Athletes looking to gain better balance and flexibility enjoy Iyengar as well. 

This type of yoga is recommended for the beginner as each pose is initiated at the basic level before moving on to more advanced poses.

Kundalini

Emphasizing the mind and body, Kundalini focuses on higher consciousness as well as greater flexibility.  The goal is to awaken one's energy force, or chakras, through intense breathing patterns of varying lengths and depths.  Individuals with high blood pressure and pregnant women should avoid Kundalini.

Sivanada

Great for beginners or those looking for a stress-reliever, this gentle, meditative form of yoga consists of 12 poses comprising the Sun Salutation.  Each pose is held for longer periods of time to encourage the mind-body connection.  These classes usually begin and end with a short mantra chant followed by prayers or a period of meditation.   

Source: American Council on Exercise

View Animated Exercise Pictures using many different pieces of equipment!