Yoga

by WLR Staff, Adam Vaughan

From Sting, Madonna and Geri to international footballers and athletes, yoga is "IN". Yoga is suitable for all regardless of age or ability; there is always something everyone can do. Yoga is a way for better health and fitness.

Benefits

For some 5,000 years yoga has been practised throughout the world. Yoga offers an active work out to energize your body and calm your inner being. A series of poses, postures and positions, yoga improves your flexibility, strength and stress levels.

Burn Rate

Depending on your weight and exertion level you'll burn between 85-170 extra calories* in a half-hour session.

*Extra calories are those you burn on top of the calories you use for basic day-to-day living. Inputting your exercise into your exercise diary will calculate the number of calories you will burn, based on your weight.

Getting Started

There are many forms of yoga ranging from moderately taxing to very challenging and some forms include a spiritual aspect. All yoga forms will increase your fitness and make you feel positive. Find the right form for your abilities.

It will take time to learn all of the moves correctly, there are plenty of videos and books available but techniques are important so it is probably best to start off with a class and a qualified teacher.

Kit Bag

You can practise anywhere, anytime — no equipment is required.

Wear comfortable clothes that are easy to move in; not too loose! Bare feet are ideal.

You can invest in a mat for comfort!

Safety

Begin slowly and gradually build up your flexibility. It's best to start under the guidance of a qualified class instructor.