Power yoga is a dynamic type of yoga, in which great emphasis is placed on the development of strength, flexibility and flexibility of the body. The exercises are quick and vigorous, and it takes no more than 5 breaths to stay in one position. Thanks to this, power yoga is an ideal choice for people who, in addition to stretching, would like to improve their endurance and burn unnecessary calories.
Power yogacomes from Ashtanga yoga - a style of exercise popularized in the 20th century by K. Pattahabi Jois from India. It was characterized by greater dynamics and intensity than in the traditional variant of yoga called hatha. Patthabi Jois's students, Americans Beryl Bender Birch and Bryan Kest, decided to use the teachings of their master and create an even more intense variant of exercises containing elements of fitness. This is how power yoga was established in the USA in the early 1990s.
Power yoga - what is it?
Power yoga has little to do with the calm rhythm of hatha yoga, where each asana is performed slowly, carefully, and with maximum concentration. The word "power" indicates greater energy and speed of this type of exercise.
Power yoga is characterized by the following elements:
- exercises (asanas) with your own body weight;
- strong breath that sets the rhythm of training and the duration in one position (usually one asana does not last longer than 5 breaths);
- fast and smooth asana transitions;
- weaving pilates and fitness exercises into the sequence of movements.
Sometimes power yoga is called dance, because the individual sequences resemble small choreographies in which the practitioners flow smoothly from one figure to the next. When practicing, accuracy in performing asanas is less important than combining them in a series of vigorous movements more skillfully.
Power yoga - exercise effects
The quick pace that the instructor imposes during power yoga classes makes it easy to get tired during exercises. Greater dynamics of movements accelerates the pulse and improves blood circulation. Each asana requires a lot of force, thanks to which the muscles are strengthened and the body becomes more supple and flexible. The need to move quickly from one position to another increases coordination and affects functionalitymovements. In addition, a large number of asanas that require balance to help strengthen the core muscles and stabilize the figure.
Regular power yoga training increases strength and endurance, slims the figure and improves the flexibility of the body.
Power yoga - for whom?
Power yoga is recommended for people who have some experience in training classical yoga. Rather, it should not be started by people who have never practiced asanas before, as it will be difficult for them to adapt to the fast pace of training.
Power yoga will not be to the liking of those who expect relaxation after a hard day's exercise. It was created for people who like yoga, but would like to derive more physical benefits from it - first of all, to strengthen muscles, improve endurance, burn calories, and increase coordination. Power yoga training usually comes out tired and sweaty, but full of positive energy and vigor.