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by Karen Asp
“Many of those ideas about yoga are myths,” says Stephen Russell, registered yoga teacher and president of the Yoga Alliance, an organization of qualified yoga instructors. “Anyone of any age, shape or size can do yoga.” And many people do: According to Yoga Journal’s 2005 “Yoga in America” study, almost 8 percent of adults now practice yoga, up 43 percent from 2002.
Health benefits may be the number-one reason. Yoga can help reduce stress, relieve back pain, manage weight, improve posture, boost circulation, improve flexibility and increase strength. One study, sponsored by the American Council on Exercise, found that the participating women who did hatha yoga three times a week for eight weeks significantly improved flexibility, strength, endurance and balance.
Ready to give it a try? First, choose from the dozens of available types of yoga, some of which are more demanding than others. For instance, restorative yoga focuses on relaxation, while power and ashtanga yoga offer more athletic, vigorous workouts. Hatha yoga is a mix of styles suitable to all fitness levels, and is the most widely taught. “Picking a style depends on your goals,” Russell says. He adds that you should feel comfortable with the instructor, environment and other participants, which you can get a sense of if you observe or try at least one class before committing. Most studios, community centers and health clubs will allow a free trial. While you can buy videos to follow at home, Russell recommends taking a class or two first to learn proper form.
Next, look for an instructor who communicates well and offers modifications in class for people who have health or mobility problems. (Visit yogaalliance.org to locate qualified instructors.) Ask teachers how long and where they studied, if they’re continuing their training and how often they practice yoga each week. You might even chat with students to hear their impressions of the instructor.
Then get ready to reap the rewards. As Russell says, “Doing yoga can lead to a higher quality of life.”
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Editor Elinor Nauen | Design Segal Savad Design