3) Bikram Yoga
Rigid 90-minute classes consisting of 26 poses and 2 breathing exercises each held for a minute and repeated twice. Named after the founder, Bikram Choudhury, the practice is performed in a room heated to 105 degrees with 40% humidity. No music. (As a
certified yoga teacher, I do not recommend heated classes.)
If you choose to practice hot yoga, please follow these 10 Tips to Stay Safe and Comfortable in Hot Yoga Classes
Good for:
Competitive types (Bikram yoga embraces the “yoga as a sport” movement).
Avoid if:
You are pregnant, have circulation issues, hate to sweat, like classes with music, or have high blood pressure.
You might also like:
Hot vinyasa yoga for the heat.
Ashtanga yoga or Iyengar yoga for the consistency.
Moksha yoga (hot yoga).
4) Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga refers to any form of yoga that’s gentle and slow-paced, usually well-suited for beginners.
Good for:
Anyone with mobility issues.
Beginners.
Seniors
Pregnant women (with modifications)
Avoid if:
Anyone looking for a rigorous practice.
You might also like:
Classes called Kripalu, slow flow, restorative, gentle, or beginners yoga.
5) Iyengar Yoga
Both Pattabhi Jois, the founder of Ashtanga yoga, and B.K.S. Iyengar were trained by Krishnamacharya, known as the father of modern yoga. Iyengar yoga focuses on alignment, and poses are taught with an attention to detail. Props such as chairs, blocks, straps, and blankets are used for almost all poses, regardless of a student’s level.
Poses are often held longer than in other classes, and you might do the same pose various ways in the same class. Classes move at a slow progression. Iyengar classes
can feel quite serious, but you will learn a great deal.
Good for:
Anyone interested in learning more about yoga, especially anatomy and alignment.
Great for beginners, those recovering from injuries, and anyone with mobility issues. Appropriate for the young and old.
Avoid if:
You prefer a fast-paced class or one with music.
You prefer your classes to be less serious.
You prefer a more meditative environment.
You might also like:
Anusara for the alignment.
Viniyoga for the attention to your body.
Ashtanga yoga for the consistency.
