Look around and yoga classes and kit seem to be popping up everywhere. Whilst many boast of the amazing health and fitness benefits, getting to grips with exactly what this trendy sport actually is, can be tricky.
We are here to help and have a guide to all you need to know to get started with yoga so you can decide it if it is for you.
What is yoga?
This is the best place to start. In a nutshell, yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing with the end result of enhancing physical and mental wellbeing. Yoga is made up of a series of movements designed to increase strength and flexibility as well as breathing and originated in India over 5,000 years ago.
What are the various styles of yoga?
There are many yoga styles such as Ashtanga, Hatha, Iyengar and Sivananda, with new variations such as hot yoga, popping up all the time. Some styles are more vigorous than others and each has a slightly different area of emphasis, such as posture and breathing. No style is better than another, but there will be one that is right for you so check out what is on offer.
What are the benefits?
Yoga is a safe, effective way to increase physical activity and to particularly strength, increase flexibility and improve balance. It has also been suggested that regular yoga practice is beneficial for people with high blood pressure, heart disease, aches and pains (including lower back pain) depression and stress.
Do you have to be fit to do yoga?
No, one of the great things about yoga is that you don’t have to be super fit to take part. Find a class that works for your fitness level and try a class out to see if you get on with the teacher, like the environment and actually enjoy what you are being taught.
What should I wear?
Yoga clothing is a big business but try not to get carried away at the start. Loose clothes like leggings and a vest are a great staple and it is good idea to invest in your own mat from the start. Take a warm top or blanket for the cool down and meditation sessions, as your body will start too cool down.
Can I injure myself doing yoga?
Yoga-related injuries are petty uncommon. It is the same as any other exercise discipline, in that it is perfectly safe if taught properly. Finding a qualified teacher and a class appropriate for you will help you remain injury-free. If you have any pre-existing injuries do let the teacher know before the start of the lesson and listen to your body, if someone niggles or hurts, stop.
Don’t you need to be flexible to do yoga?
This really isn’t a requirement so don’t worry about it. The brilliant thing is that yoga will improve your flexibility and help you go beyond your normal range of movement, which may help make daily activities easier.
Am I too old for yoga?
It is never too late to start yoga, some people don’t try until they are in their 70s, with many wishing they had started sooner. There are yoga classes for every age group and it is something that can be enjoyed by children and pensioners and everyone in-between.
How long is a class?
Classes last between 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. The fantastic thing about a longer class is that you have the opportunity to focus on breathing and relaxation techniques towards the end of the session and even learn to meditate.
Where can I find a yoga class?
Classes can be found a your local gym, leisure centre, specific studios and even in school and village halls. Check the teacher is qualified, try to speak to other students and you can find out more at British Wheel of Yoga (BWY), the Sport England-recognised governing body for yoga
Enjoy.