Spiritual Center

I know all yoga has benefits. Which variety is best for building strength and fitness?

Ashtanga is great, like the above answer says. However, I find a traditional ashtanga practice to be too rigid – it’s the exact same poses every class, and much of the primary series (which will be the focus of most ashtanga classes you get at gyms, studios, etc.) is a seated sequence that I find rather monotonous. In most ashtanga classes, each posture is held for 5 breaths.

I prefer a vinyasa flow style or “power yoga” class (which has roots in ashtanga, but is not as rigid – its sequencing is pretty much up to the instructor). In terms of strength and fitness, Bikram Yoga is great for cardio/strength – it is a fixed sequence of 26 postures done in a room heated to 90-something degrees. You will likely either love Bikram or hate it – if you try it, be sure to . . . → Read More: What kind of yoga is best for fitness?