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How should I pick which yoga class to take?

I need to strengthen my core and just feel a little more spry and less winded. I think Yoga's the answer. So based on your PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, what type of yoga class would you recommend? Which branch of Yoga?
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Marked as Best! October 14, 2009 01:10 PM
Yoga is the answer! Yoga is really great. I miss the weekly Yoga sessions that I use to participate in, I really should get back into it too.

"What type of yoga class would you recommend? Which branch of Yoga?"

The answers to these questions depend entirely on the instructors available in your area. There are a few different types of Yoga and most instructors prefer one style over others.

Generally, a Beginner Yoga & Meditation class is a great place to start. Not only will you receive the health benefits of Yoga, but you'll find that integrated meditation will clear and maybe even strengthen your mind.

I suggest that you enroll in one trial class at a variety of locations. Talk to the instructors about their programs and find an instructor that you like and a center that provides a comfortable, solid foundation.

Heck, who knows... maybe you'll come across an instructor like Augustine. Apparently, he works for Ford Models ;)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESO4AHyy6YY
Asker's Rating:
• I think I will start with some Hatha meditation and beginner's work. My pride's a little sore at not being awesome at something from Day 1 (and being in my 20s and so horridly and deceivingly out of shape), but I think it'll be good for me. Thanks, Rob.
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October 14, 2009 08:27 PM
You need to find a beginner's class since you have no experience yet. You can also try positions that you research on Youtube or FitTv to see if you like Yoga before taking the plunge. If there are many classes offered in your area, spy first. Find the group with the most people that you think are similar to yourself. For example, if you are a senior, consider Yoga classes offered to other seniors so you're not surrounded by a bunch of transcendental size two's burning off their energy bars. Don't commit to anything before you've tried it out though. It can be a waste of money if it's not best suited to your needs.
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October 14, 2009 08:54 PM
There are so many things too consider! Firstly, I love Yoga, but for what you're looking for, and to get the most out of your time-might I suggest something a little less esoteric? I have years of Tai Chi Chuan experience, but only minimal experience with Yoga. Yoga is fantastic for relieving tension, making the body more supple-thus stronger, and improving concentration-- but for what you're looking for, it's the LONG road, and not perfectly suited for you. Yoga requires hours of practice. Yoga really can't be a fly-by activity.

Okay, what works for all of your goals, and will fit into a reasonable schedule (belonging to something doesn't give you results by default). Pilates or "Functional Strength training are the two things you should be looking into. Either one can show results in a short period of time, with minimal "out of class" practice. Finding a reputable Functional Strength coach may be difficult. Someone inn a local college sports program may know of one.

Also, unlike Yoga, where I would absolutely NEVER recommend self education, Pilates can be learned and practiced in your home. Videos are available, and I know of a few good programs.

FREE! Take a look!
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&ved=0CBQQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpilates.about.com%2Fod%2Fbuyingequipmentetc%2Fqt%2FVideos-Online.htm&rct=j&q=pilates+video&ei=0jjWSu3MJYb-tQOP8a3GAg&usg=AFQjCNG1XwOS8rX5k94bTKa3Ynm6J0_fHg&sig2=tIduTnE0g1wsBGAcacyVbA

This isn't Spark People's best work, butt there's some exercises to look at here, too.
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=996

Note the stress on breathing AND core work. This is similar the many of the tenets of Tai Chi and Yoga, but with a much more direct route to where you're headed.

Unlike Yoga, too, many commercial gyms have very good Pilates programs. If there's a World's Gym, Powerhouse, YMCA or even Gold's (but I HATE Gold's!), give them a call and see if they offer Pilates.
Source(s):
Experience, certified personal trainerr, seven years martial arts.
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October 18, 2009 03:06 AM
Thanks Joe. You know, I'd usually rather take the efficient quick road, and thus pilates SEEMS like a good idea. But when I tried a Yogilates class at a Powerhouse Gym it was too high impact for me...at least to start. I couldn't keep up and it was clear my body just wasn't up for it yet (*sigh*).

I think I'm going to have to start slow with yoga, then work myself up to a more high impact pilates class once I've gotten my rear end off the floor. The GOOD news is that there's an amazing yoga studio just down the road from me, and they do offer a couple pilates classes. So based on your advice, that's what I will work toward. Thanks.
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