How do I know if yoga's right for me?

I have been considering yoga and wondering if I should try to fit a class into my school schedule. How do you know if yoga would be a good workout for you?

Replies

  • tigersword
    tigersword Posts: 8,059 Member
    I wouldn't consider yoga a "workout." It's more flexibility and for calming your mind.

    That said, yoga is good for everyone.
  • Madame_Goldbricker
    Madame_Goldbricker Posts: 1,625 Member
    All depends on what your looking for from it really? There are some forms of Yoga that are more intensive than others. Or there's Pilates which focuses less on the "spirtual" element.

    http://www.yoga-space.org/whatis.htm

    Brief descriptions here.
  • cafeaulait7
    cafeaulait7 Posts: 2,459 Member
    I have been considering yoga and wondering if I should try to fit a class into my school schedule. How do you know if yoga would be a good workout for you?

    If you've considered it at all, you'll probably love it. There really is this neurological thing that makes you energetic afterwards, and it's addictive that way. Just take a few classes. Don't just take one or the amazing parts might not kick in yet.

    And different forms of yoga are different. Most all of them are workouts, yes. Cardio? No. Strength training for everyone? No, some folks will have to progress up to the more advanced poses for that, if they start out very strong. People who are strong from lifting probably don't have the flexibility to do some fairly basic yoga poses, OTOH, so you definitely can progress faster if you start out flexible compared to just strong, I think.

    Most people just build both their strength and flexibility as they go, I believe. It works really well. That's probably why it's been around forever :) All those 'planks' and pushups you see everywhere in fitness? That's all yoga.

    And there are even forms that are fast enough to be cardio for lots of folks. I suggest learning the poses done slowly before taking that on, though. Form is key.
  • rgugs13
    rgugs13 Posts: 197 Member
    Try it. There are different kinds, and you can find many different full length videos online. Some kinds of yoga are more a moving meditation, which is good for relaxing and stretching out, and some, usually called power yoga can be an awesome workout with you dripping sweat at the end. If you REALLY want to sweat, look for bikram yoga, aka hot yoga.
  • yogicarl
    yogicarl Posts: 1,260 Member
    I have been considering yoga and wondering if I should try to fit a class into my school schedule. How do you know if yoga would be a good workout for you?

    If you've considered it at all, you'll probably love it. There really is this neurological thing that makes you energetic afterwards, and it's addictive that way. Just take a few classes. Don't just take one or the amazing parts might not kick in yet.

    And different forms of yoga are different. Most all of them are workouts, yes. Cardio? No. Strength training for everyone? No, some folks will have to progress up to the more advanced poses for that, if they start out very strong. People who are strong from lifting probably don't have the flexibility to do some fairly basic yoga poses, OTOH, so you definitely can progress faster if you start out flexible compared to just strong, I think.

    Most people just build both their strength and flexibility as they go, I believe. It works really well. That's probably why it's been around forever :) All those 'planks' and pushups you see everywhere in fitness? That's all yoga.

    And there are even forms that are fast enough to be cardio for lots of folks. I suggest learning the poses done slowly before taking that on, though. Form is key.

    Agreed; word for word and nothing to add apart from - the best way to know if it is for you is to try it. What's to lose?
  • tigersword
    tigersword Posts: 8,059 Member
    I have been considering yoga and wondering if I should try to fit a class into my school schedule. How do you know if yoga would be a good workout for you?

    If you've considered it at all, you'll probably love it. There really is this neurological thing that makes you energetic afterwards, and it's addictive that way. Just take a few classes. Don't just take one or the amazing parts might not kick in yet.

    And different forms of yoga are different. Most all of them are workouts, yes. Cardio? No. Strength training for everyone? No, some folks will have to progress up to the more advanced poses for that, if they start out very strong. People who are strong from lifting probably don't have the flexibility to do some fairly basic yoga poses, OTOH, so you definitely can progress faster if you start out flexible compared to just strong, I think.

    Most people just build both their strength and flexibility as they go, I believe. It works really well. That's probably why it's been around forever :) All those 'planks' and pushups you see everywhere in fitness? That's all yoga.

    And there are even forms that are fast enough to be cardio for lots of folks. I suggest learning the poses done slowly before taking that on, though. Form is key.
    While I practice yoga daily, and I'm all for encouraging people to try it, I despise misinformation. Planks and push-ups are not "all yoga." The modern form of yoga is based on Hatha yoga, which dates back about 500 years. Planks and push-ups were used for exercise long before that, the Greeks and Romans used them 2500 years ago as part of military training.
  • WalkingAlong
    WalkingAlong Posts: 4,926 Member
    Classes are expensive, unless your gym offers them. If you want to try it without spending first, check out some yoga shows on TV or Netflix. The various styles differ a lot so if you don't like the first one, don't write it off completely.
  • bowbeforethoraxis
    bowbeforethoraxis Posts: 138 Member
    As a regular practitioner of yoga, I'd say it's right for everyone, you included.

    Yoga probably isn't the best "work out" meaning you don't burn tons of calories and doing just yoga isn't going to significantly change your muscle mass (so don't go into it with those expectations), but it will help your balance and flexibility. Also, depending where you are, it can help make you stronger. I couldn't do standard planks (had to be on my knees), or hold some poses of the standing strength variety for very long when I first started, but I can now! And, if I do an intense workout, then go do yoga, I'm nowhere near as sore the next day, all that stretching out really does help. There have also been studies that show that yoga improves bone strength, lowers blood pressure, and a ton of other helpful stuff health-wise.

    The biggest benefit of yoga is definitely mental. Yoga reduces stress and tension and adds such a great awareness of your body and your world. Since I've started doing yoga I can feel how much more relaxed I am, and it's way easier to go to bed. I feel more connected to my body, it isn't just something that I have to have anymore, it's something I honor and take care of because it's a part of me. I've had fewer seasonal depression signs this year (which I attribute to yoga, because that's the biggest change between now and every other time the weather turns). I've been doing yoga before I do homework or take tests too, and doing that mental work after I've had a great yoga class has been easier, and my scores have improved.

    So, I guess if you want to burn 600 calories in an hour, don't expect yoga to get you there. But, if you want to feel amazing, improve balance and flexibility, reduce your stress, and increase your mind/body connection, definitely take yoga!

    And, I agree with the others, take a few classes (from a few different instructors if you can) because it might take a bit for all the benefits to kick in, and a certain teacher might be amazing for you, while another teacher might lead the class in a way that doesn't work for you.
  • mank32
    mank32 Posts: 1,323 Member
    creeper tagged :blushing:
  • cafeaulait7
    cafeaulait7 Posts: 2,459 Member
    I have been considering yoga and wondering if I should try to fit a class into my school schedule. How do you know if yoga would be a good workout for you?

    If you've considered it at all, you'll probably love it. There really is this neurological thing that makes you energetic afterwards, and it's addictive that way. Just take a few classes. Don't just take one or the amazing parts might not kick in yet.

    And different forms of yoga are different. Most all of them are workouts, yes. Cardio? No. Strength training for everyone? No, some folks will have to progress up to the more advanced poses for that, if they start out very strong. People who are strong from lifting probably don't have the flexibility to do some fairly basic yoga poses, OTOH, so you definitely can progress faster if you start out flexible compared to just strong, I think.

    Most people just build both their strength and flexibility as they go, I believe. It works really well. That's probably why it's been around forever :) All those 'planks' and pushups you see everywhere in fitness? That's all yoga.

    And there are even forms that are fast enough to be cardio for lots of folks. I suggest learning the poses done slowly before taking that on, though. Form is key.
    While I practice yoga daily, and I'm all for encouraging people to try it, I despise misinformation. Planks and push-ups are not "all yoga." The modern form of yoga is based on Hatha yoga, which dates back about 500 years. Planks and push-ups were used for exercise long before that, the Greeks and Romans used them 2500 years ago as part of military training.

    Ah, we're getting all historically accurate? Pretty cool :) I used the word 'forever' to kind of note that I wasn't being precise like that, but your info is very interesting. Maybe the yogis swiped planks and pushups from the Greeks and Romans? In any case, those moves will definitely be seen in your average yoga class, possible cultural appropriation notwithstanding ;)
  • JoRocka
    JoRocka Posts: 17,525 Member
    If you like it- and it's helping improve your life- it's for you.
  • celtbell3
    celtbell3 Posts: 738 Member
    I love yoga - it will balance all other forms of exercise and bring success in all areas!!
  • I consider yoga exercise and log it daily. It's a right fit if you enjoy it and get that feeling of relaxation and peace. I had a friend who joined a class at her office that met around lunch time. She stuck it out for a week or two then decided it wasn't for her. She said she couldn't get her mind that "down" during the day. Basically she couldn't turn off work and enjoy the peace. I, personally LOVE yoga first thing in the morning. I do mine at home, but I find that (a) it stretches out all the tension from my sleep (I have issues with nightmares), and (b) it washes those nightmares out of my head so that I can start my day fresh. Also be aware that there are different types of yoga. Slow, stretching movements are part of hatha yoga. The hubby likes Bikram yoga that takes place in a super steaming room - I would melt into a puddle in the first 5 minutes. So check the class description or talk with the instructor. :smooched:

    totally agree that the instructor can make or break the class. I really don't like those that are aggressive and try to "position" me. I like to take it at my own pace.
  • lizziebeth1028
    lizziebeth1028 Posts: 3,602 Member
    I LOVE yoga!!! Is it an exercise? Yes it most certainly is!!! I've broken a sweat in yoga class and I've been sore the next day!! It's great for strength and flexibility. Give it a try!
  • TeaBea
    TeaBea Posts: 14,517 Member
    I have been considering yoga and wondering if I should try to fit a class into my school schedule. How do you know if yoga would be a good workout for you?

    Hulu.com has a health & fitness channel.....lots of yoga to try.

    Mostly... yoga is not a workout. However, if you can reach an advanced level....then it will be more challenging. For me, it's very calming and I can work my balance and flexibility too.
  • JoRocka
    JoRocka Posts: 17,525 Member
    I LOVE yoga!!! Is it an exercise? Yes it most certainly is!!! I've broken a sweat in yoga class and I've been sore the next day!! It's great for strength and flexibility. Give it a try!

    I break a sweat sitting in my car driving home in the summer.

    I break a sweat sitting in a sauna.

    I have been sore from raking leaves and doing sewing projects.

    Neither of those two things are good indicators of a "good workout"
  • Showcase_Brodown
    Showcase_Brodown Posts: 919 Member
    I have been sore from raking leaves and doing sewing projects.

    I'm just waiting for the "Can I count sewing as exercise?" thread. :)
  • lizziebeth1028
    lizziebeth1028 Posts: 3,602 Member
    I LOVE yoga!!! Is it an exercise? Yes it most certainly is!!! I've broken a sweat in yoga class and I've been sore the next day!! It's great for strength and flexibility. Give it a try!

    I break a sweat sitting in my car driving home in the summer.

    I break a sweat sitting in a sauna.

    I have been sore from raking leaves and doing sewing projects.

    Neither of those two things are good indicators of a "good workout"

    Ouch! What's with the attack?!
  • tigersword
    tigersword Posts: 8,059 Member
    I LOVE yoga!!! Is it an exercise? Yes it most certainly is!!! I've broken a sweat in yoga class and I've been sore the next day!! It's great for strength and flexibility. Give it a try!

    I break a sweat sitting in my car driving home in the summer.

    I break a sweat sitting in a sauna.

    I have been sore from raking leaves and doing sewing projects.

    Neither of those two things are good indicators of a "good workout"

    Ouch! What's with the attack?!
    It's not an attack, it's the truth. Soreness and sweat have absolutely no correlation with the effectiveness of an activity. I can squat 200 pounds for multiple sets and not be sore the next day. I can spend 15 minutes with a foam roller and be incredibly sore. Which activity do you think was more effective from an exercise standpoint?
  • cwolfman13
    cwolfman13 Posts: 41,865 Member
    I enjoy yoga but think of it more as a revitalization activity than a workout...that said, there are various kinds of yoga. The yoga I do primarily focuses on flexibility and stretching which is important to Olympic Lifting, which I'm just getting into (and weight training in general).
  • JoRocka
    JoRocka Posts: 17,525 Member
    I LOVE yoga!!! Is it an exercise? Yes it most certainly is!!! I've broken a sweat in yoga class and I've been sore the next day!! It's great for strength and flexibility. Give it a try!

    I break a sweat sitting in my car driving home in the summer.

    I break a sweat sitting in a sauna.

    I have been sore from raking leaves and doing sewing projects.

    Neither of those two things are good indicators of a "good workout"

    Ouch! What's with the attack?!

    Tigerswood is correct- it's not an attack.

    I never said yoga wasn't good for you either- I'm just saying "breaking a sweat and being sore are terrible ways to indicate a good work out.

    I love doing some yoga- I use it for dance warm ups- cool downs- mobility flexibility wellness and all sorts of positive benefits.

    But I don't say sweating/soreness = workout. Because they aren't.

    Yoga is great- but it only goes so far in the "workout" department. if that was the case I'd convince myself napping was a workout too- because I swear I get some solid yoga stuff in with that (I am one of those I liked to nap in weird cat like ways!!)
    I'm just waiting for the "Can I count sewing as exercise?" thread. :)
    LOL IF ONLY!! I literally spent 8 hrs sewing on Saturday!!!!
  • elyelyse
    elyelyse Posts: 1,454 Member
    If you don't consider yoga exercise, chances are you have only experienced certain types of yoga.
    Sun Salutation (of which there are several variations), done at the right pace, is absolutely a cardio exercise. There are several poses and vinyasas (series of poses) that, practiced regularly, will absolutely help develop stronger muscles. I know several people for whom yoga is their primary source of exercise and who have strength and stamina that is mindblowing.
  • WalkingAlong
    WalkingAlong Posts: 4,926 Member
    I would say many yoga poses are definitely resistance exercises, especially in the harder yoga styles like power yoga and Bikram. It's just body weight but body weight ain't no joke in some positions.
  • cafeaulait7
    cafeaulait7 Posts: 2,459 Member
    I would say many yoga poses are definitely resistance exercises, especially in the harder yoga styles like power yoga and Bikram. It's just body weight but body weight ain't no joke in some positions.

    Completely agreed. I always have asanas that run through my head when folks act like it's such an easy, gentle thing, lol. I'm thinking 'can they really do that AND think it's easy?' Honestly, I'm thinking the answer is probably no. One of the problems is that beginning yoga classes are, well, beginning yoga ;) Beginning yoga is lovely and all many folks need from yoga, absolutely, but it's not the whole discipline by far! There is much, much room for advancement.

    Maybe not in local classes, and that is a problem. I have to drive to the mountains for workshops, and we're pretty yoga crazy where I live.
  • Hauntinglyfit
    Hauntinglyfit Posts: 5,537 Member
    Well, i have been reading about this innovative way of finding out if a certain workout is for you or not.
    It's called trying it out. Basically, you go there and do it once, or preferably a few times, then you decide if you like it,
  • ninerbuff
    ninerbuff Posts: 49,027 Member
    Yoga is probably great for everyone. Now whether you enjoy it and like it yourself is up to you.

    A.C.E. Certified Personal/Group FitnessTrainer
    IDEA Fitness member
    Kickboxing Certified Instructor
    Been in fitness for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition
  • JoRocka
    JoRocka Posts: 17,525 Member
    I would say many yoga poses are definitely resistance exercises, especially in the harder yoga styles like power yoga and Bikram. It's just body weight but body weight ain't no joke in some positions.

    LULZ my first real exposure to yoga was a full dance warm up of sun salutations and something else.

    I thought I was going to die- I was dripping sweat and chocking on my own panting- it was exhausting- just SO out of my own element LMAO. I can't DEFINITELY be hard if you aren't used to it!!!

    The power yoga one kicked my *kitten* too - I should do more- shame shame on me!!

    i'm just happy I can do crow now- not well- but I can do it!
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