The concept of Power Yoga has been getting some buzz, but a lot of
people are confused as to what the practice actually entails. The term
was first coined in the 1990s, and many consider it to be the beginning
of the "gym yoga" trend. But these days, everyone's got their own take
on what really constitutes a Power Yoga practice. Some rooms are heated,
while others keep it cool. Some teachers follow the same series of
poses, while others mix things up every class. The best way to get a
feel for any Power Yoga is to talk to a teacher beforehand to see what
her class is all about. But with all these things considered, there are
some definite underlying themes that are evident in the majority of
Power Yoga classes. Here are four you should know before you power
through one of these classes for the first time!
- It has its roots in Ashtanga: Power Yoga definitely takes its cues from the practice made famous from Ashtanga
master Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. Two of the most recognizable names
associated with power yoga, Beryl Bender Birch and Bryan Kest,
personally studied under Pattabhi Jois!
- It moves quickly: Power Yoga is definitely an intense workout
that will make you sweat. A traditional Ashtanga practice follows the
same series of poses and makes you hold each for five breaths before
moving through a Vinyasa. Power Yoga classes move with an even faster
rhythm. There are very few moments of being in a pose and getting the
feeling that it's taking forever. Soon enough, you'll be out and moving
on to the next Asana.
- It's great for strength training: Other forms of yoga may be
ideal for flexibility and meditation, but in Power Yoga, you lift and
hold your entire body's weight constantly. These classes incorporate a
serious number of Vinyasas, and they're definitely going to get your
entire body into gear. For one, your arms will definitely feel the burn
from all those Chaturangas!
- It makes you feel energized: There's a reason that so
many people leave Power Yoga classes saying that they're feeling a
little "blissed out." While I've left many a relaxing yoga class feeling
happy, just wanting to take a bath and get into bed, Power Yoga classes
always leave me feeling calm but with an extra little skip in my step! I
often come home and tackle a load of chores after I've taken a Power
Yoga class.
Power Yoga has become a bit of a collective term for a lot of
different classes, so I'm curious about your personal experience. Have
you taken Power Yoga? Chime in below!
