Is yoga a workout? What kind of question is this? Obviously, the people asking have never taken a yoga class before! Besides, they wouldn’t make specific clothing if it wasn’t right!? It is often these people who leave their first yoga class stunned at the challenge yoga can be. While it is understandable that people would think yoga is just stretching, yoga is so much more than that!

One of the best things about yoga is how versatile it can be! One class can feel like a cardio session and the next can be all about relaxation. It is a great way to get in a workout based on what your body needs!

Even professional athletes use yoga in their training! They say it helps keep them limber, flexible, and able to build up muscle strength. Who wouldn’t want to see attractive athletes in downward facing dog – I know I would! There are many benefits of going to the gym for a workout that are the same with a yoga class. These include:

  • Help with weight loss: Even though you won’t burn calories in the traditional way with yoga. Taking yoga increases ones mindfulness and how you relate to your body. Making you more aware of what you are putting into your body. Yoga is also one of the best ways to maintain your weight!
  • Prevent health conditions and diseases: While yoga is not a cure for any specific illness, the benefits to your body may help you fight off illness in the future! Yoga has been linked to helping cardiovascular health, bettering your bone health, prevents joint breakdown and lowering your blood sugar, just to name a few!
  • Improved mood: After a workout it is no surprise that you are in a better mood. That is thanks to the endorphins that are released leaving you happier than you were before! Endorphins are also released during yoga, in addition to the meditation and deep breathing techniques. Leaving you less stressed and a happy camper!
  • A boost in energy: Working out causes your cardiovascular system to work more efficiently. While yoga has a stigma of being relaxing – and it totally is – it can also give you a boost of energy when you need it. Poses on the more strenuous side get your heart pumping more and improve your energy levels leaving you feeling refreshed!

If you have any doubts about yoga being a workout, try one of our sessions today and let us prove you wrong!