How should I pick which yoga class to take?
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M$3 Answers
"What type of yoga class would you recommend? Which branch of Yoga?"
The answers to these questions depend entirely on the instructors available in your area. There are a few different types of Yoga and most instructors prefer one style over others.
Generally, a Beginner Yoga & Meditation class is a great place to start. Not only will you receive the health benefits of Yoga, but you'll find that integrated meditation will clear and maybe even strengthen your mind.
I suggest that you enroll in one trial class at a variety of locations. Talk to the instructors about their programs and find an instructor that you like and a center that provides a comfortable, solid foundation.
Heck, who knows... maybe you'll come across an instructor like Augustine. Apparently, he works for Ford Models ;)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESO4AHyy6YY
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M$
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M$
Okay, what works for all of your goals, and will fit into a reasonable schedule (belonging to something doesn't give you results by default). Pilates or "Functional Strength training are the two things you should be looking into. Either one can show results in a short period of time, with minimal "out of class" practice. Finding a reputable Functional Strength coach may be difficult. Someone inn a local college sports program may know of one.
Also, unlike Yoga, where I would absolutely NEVER recommend self education, Pilates can be learned and practiced in your home. Videos are available, and I know of a few good programs.
FREE! Take a look!
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&ved=0CBQQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpilates.about.com%2Fod%2Fbuyingequipmentetc%2Fqt%2FVideos-Online.htm&rct=j&q=pilates+video&ei=0jjWSu3MJYb-tQOP8a3GAg&usg=AFQjCNG1XwOS8rX5k94bTKa3Ynm6J0_fHg&sig2=tIduTnE0g1wsBGAcacyVbA
This isn't Spark People's best work, butt there's some exercises to look at here, too.
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=996
Note the stress on breathing AND core work. This is similar the many of the tenets of Tai Chi and Yoga, but with a much more direct route to where you're headed.
Unlike Yoga, too, many commercial gyms have very good Pilates programs. If there's a World's Gym, Powerhouse, YMCA or even Gold's (but I HATE Gold's!), give them a call and see if they offer Pilates.
Experience, certified personal trainerr, seven years martial arts.
You can leave an optional "tip" with Mahalo's virtual currency, Mahalo Dollars. If you are asking a difficult question that might require some research, or if you'd like a wide variety of feedback, a higher tip often leads to more answers to your question.
M$
Thanks Joe. You know, I'd usually rather take the efficient quick road, and thus pilates SEEMS like a good idea. But when I tried a Yogilates class at a Powerhouse Gym it was too high impact for me...at least to start. I couldn't keep up and it was clear my body just wasn't up for it yet (*sigh*).
I think I'm going to have to start slow with yoga, then work myself up to a more high impact pilates class once I've gotten my rear end off the floor. The GOOD news is that there's an amazing yoga studio just down the road from me, and they do offer a couple pilates classes. So based on your advice, that's what I will work toward. Thanks.
