Before we get into details, first let's understand who invented this method of Yoga and what is Power Yoga? The term "power yoga" became popular during the mid-1990s when two American yoga teachers who had studied with Ashtanga guru Sri K. Pattabhi Jois began to make what they had learned more accessible to Western students. Bryan Kest, based in Los Angeles, and Beryl Bender Birch, based in New York, are most often credited with the nearly simultaneous invention of power yoga on opposite coasts. Kest and Bender Birth both used the term power yoga to differentiate the intense, flowing style of yoga they were teaching from the gentle stretching and meditation based practices that many Americans associated with yoga.
Power Yoga is a vigorous, fitness-based vinyasa practice. Like Ashtanga Yoga, It incorporates the athleticism of Ashtanga, including lots of vinyasas but gives each teacher the flexibility to teach any poses in any order, making every class different. It has many of the same qualities and benefits, including building internal heat, increased stamina, strength, and flexibility, as well as stress reduction.
Now here are a few points you should know if you are a beginner to Power Yoga.
- It has its roots in Ashtanga style
- It moves faster
- It is great for strength training
- It makes you sweat
- It makes you feel energized
Now let's understand what are the health benefits of Power Yoga. Power yoga enthusiasts say it enhances stamina, flexibility, posture, and mental focus. Like all physical activities, it also relieves tension and releases toxins through sweat. Because it is rigorous, it burns more calories than most traditional forms of yoga and therefore can help with weight loss. It also helps to boost your immune system.
Some Caveats before you start Power Yoga :
Before you decide to go for Power Yoga, keep in mind it’s not for everyone and a few things you need to avoid, if you are a beginner.
- If you are not in good shape, then this is not for you. Power yoga requires to be moderately fit.
- If you are suffering from any chronic physical ailments please avoid and consult your Physician
- If you are conceiving or pregnant, then it's a big no to try this, rather go for Prenatal Yoga.
About The Author
Sital Tripathy is a certified Yoga Instructor in both RYT 200 & RYT 500 hrs. She has also an experience of teaching in different fitness studios across Bangalore.
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