What's your yoga style?
Yoga has become the exercise of choice for anyone who wants a good workout. And unlike years ago, when classes were hidden away in small specialty studios, yoga is now occupying prime-time space in fitness clubs and recreation centres across the country.
Ashtanga (power yoga)
The preferred choice for athletes, Ashtanga yoga is light on meditation but heavy on stamina. Not only are the poses more difficult than those performed in other classes, participants are encouraged to move quickly from one pose to another in an effort to build strength and flexibility. This style is suitable for anyone in good physical condition but should be avoided by those who are new to exercise.
Iyengar
One of the gentler styles of yoga, Iyengar is perfect for novices and those who haven't exercised in a while. It uses props such as chairs and pillows to compensate for a lack of flexibility, which is helpful for anyone with back or joint problems. There's also a meditative bent should you prefer a combination of mental and physical fitness. "You don't need to be a great athlete," says Jo-Ann Sutherland of the JNS Yoga Studio in Saskatoon. "It's yoga for everyone."
Bikram
Done in a hot room that is 38C or higher (to replicate the temperature of yoga's birthplace in India), this style of yoga focuses on 26 postures that are meant to be performed in a certain order. The exercises are intense and very physical, which, when combined with the heat, makes for a tough workout. Recommended for yoga veterans only.
Hatha
This mellow form of yoga focuses on simple poses that flow from one to the other at a very comfortable pace. Participants are encouraged to go at their own pace, taking time to incorporate lots of breathing and meditation into their workout. This yoga is ideal for those needing a stress release at the end of a tough day.
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