Power Yoga: A Fitness-Based Approach to Yoga

Yoga, traditionally, is viewed as a relaxation technique that involves a set of slow-paced postures and movements. This, however, was changed when two American yoga practitioners, Beryl Bender Birch and Bryan Kest, introduced a fitness-based approach to Vinyasa which they label as Power Yoga. Unlike the old style, this approach is composed of vigorous, intense flowing movements. The practice was brought to America in the mid 1990s and since then is considered as the Western technique to unifying the body and mind.

Power Yoga is developed following the basic postures of Ashtanga. It was modeled from such practice when Birch and Kest realized the need for a relaxation method that is far more vigorous than Ashtanga. However, unlike the Ashtanga style, Power Yoga is initiated without a well-organized series of postures. Every student of this technique then has the right to apply poses that vary from the next. So what keeps Power and Ashtanga the same has something to do with their being focused to bringing a sense of flexibility and strength.

Power Yoga is so-named because it is something that is different from the other types of yogic practice. It is fast-paced, focusing mainly on what can help make a person physically and mentally healthy. It works to balance the physical and mental health of the practitioner, giving the person a better sense of focus. However, for the beginners of Power Yoga, it is important not to take the poses in haste so as not to disrupt the benefits that this practice has to offer. The poses involved in this technique can cause pains and aches if done in rush.

So before taking Power Yoga, one should understand that the technique can only be accomplished by performing a variety of postures. A beginner should try to initiate the right breathing pace, following each of the poses. This breathing movement is needed here as it is one thing that promotes better results to exercising. It is the foundation to a harmonious and graceful movement. But because this practice is composed of harsh postures and motions, every exercise must be done carefully and properly. As what expert yogis say, an ability to keep focus is highly needed for a person to move his or her arms and legs in a powerful manner.

The poses of Power yoga may vary from teacher to teacher, as

well as depending on the level of transition made. There are some poses that require a longer period of time than what the regular yoga postures require. They also are performed by passing through sun salutations and the basic breathing movements involved in the regular yoga practice. Warm up exercises are also necessary to relax the muscles. But because Power Yoga is made fast-paced, only the physically fit are qualified to do the poses.