Although Yoga is extremely well known as a healthy and relaxing discipline, many beginners could become confused by the many different types of Yoga available. All Yoga styles will work well as a general health and fitness discipline, but a few key differences make for a different experience with each style of Yoga. Here are a few different kinds you may encounter frequently.
Bikram Yoga, also known as Hot Yoga, is a well-known and modern style of Yoga, and is becoming increasingly popular among fitness gurus. As Yoga involves various routines and body postures, this style is no different in that respect. There are a series of 26 poses in the normal Bikram Yoga routine, which are performed in an extremely hot room upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This is thought to improve the relaxation effect of the routines and to help cleanse the body.
Hatha Yoga is one of the most likely forms of Yoga that you will come across if you are looking for Yoga classes. It includes many of the basic Yoga poses which are used in many of the Yoga styles. These are performed in an extremely slow manner, and this style is not very strenuous. Hatha is therefore a good Yoga style for those who are new to Yoga, or for those who are less flexible.
Vinyasa Yoga is also one of the most common forms of Yoga that would be offered by the average Yoga classes. It is a style founded on a series of stretches known as the Sun Salutations. As with many Yoga styles, it incorporates and emphasizes the importance of controlled breathing and those practicing attempt to synchronize their breathing with each of the movements. It can be faster than Hatha Yoga and often requires a more advanced degree of fitness and flexibility than Hatha Yoga.
There are many other, more specialized forms of Yoga, but these are the most popular and best-known styles one will encounter. Whatever style you ultimately choose, Yoga is a discipline that has many advantages to your physical and mental health. Give it a try!