Q. I’m pregnant and I’m having a hard time
getting any significant exercise in. A friend of mine suggested
yoga but it seems a little intense for someone in my condition.
Are there particular exercises I should try? Will it hurt me or
my baby?
A. Yoga is one of the best exercises for pregnant women. There
are positions and workouts designed specifically pregnant women.
Yoga works on many levels to ease pregnancy, delivery and minimize
post-natal side effects. Pregnancy yoga works on reproductive
organs, the pelvis, the back and the circulatory system. All of
which can be problem spots for pregnant women. It will also help
with depression, insomnia, fatigue, and help create an early bond
between the mother and unborn child. Yoga during pregnancy is
especially a good idea for anyone who is considering natural childbirth.
Q. I overheard someone talking about hot yoga but I didn’t
know what she was talking about. I’m not really into yoga
but it sounds kind of kinky. What’s it all about.
A. Unfortunately for you, hot yoga (more properly called Bikram
yoga), is no kinkier than any other form. This style of yoga was
developed in India by Yogirai Bikram Choudhury. It is called hot
yoga mainly because it is supposed to be performed in a room heated
to at least 105º F with 40% humidity. Such conditions are
intended to help muscles and sinew really warm up and stretch
out. Classes typically involve 26 poses and two breathing exercises.
They follow a specific dialogue and last around 90 minutes. Classes
are designed for beginners but even experts can get a solid workout.
Q. I’ve been looking into different types of yoga;
I’m most interested in gaining muscle mass and tone. Will
power yoga be most effective? Is it more difficult than other
types?
A. One great thing about yoga is that it is effective no matter
what one’s goals or skill level. Advanced power yoga is
more difficult and physically demanding but there are beginner
classes designed to get people to that level. If you’re
looking for a rigorous, muscle-building workout, power yoga is
definitely a good way to go. It is a modernized version of classic
styles, particularly Indian Ashtanga Yoga. In power yoga poses
are held longer and breathing exercises are more demanding. It
is a dynamic physical workout developed to increase flexibility
and strength. It is also a mental and spiritual workout that promotes
discipline and strives for inner-peace.
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