The Background of Power Yoga
Power yoga is based on a form of yoga called Ashtanga yoga. We say that is it based on this because in the west, more specifically in the United States of America, this form of yoga is more vigorous and fast paced than any other form of yoga. Power yoga is actually nowhere close to the traditional forms of yoga except in how it builds up strength and flexibility in a person. There is little meditation and enlightenment in this form of yoga.
Due to the variety of exercises that power yoga has to offer, most of the power yoga exercises vary from each other immensely. There is actually no specific form or movement except for those that can build up strength and flexibility through a series of vigorous and rapid movement which were said to be based on traditional yoga movements.
Although power yoga is based on Ashtanga - Vinsaya yoga it actually originated from the United States of America so it is a fairly recent addition to the exercise world. Two yoga devotees are credited to have initiated the trend of the fast paced yoga instruction, namely Beryl Bender Birch and Bryan Kest.
Both yoga instructors studied under the same yogi. Power yoga is different from traditional yoga in the sense that there is practically no meditation and the pace is intense and faster than the traditional yoga that has been practiced for centuries.
Who Is Power Yoga For?
Power yoga can be done by practically anybody but will need some getting used to if you are used to the traditional yoga styles. You would also need to be already physically fit to cope with the fast pace and if you are just starting power yoga you must take things slow if you are not physically fit.
Both male and female genders will benefit from this form of yoga. It is said to promote physical fitness, flexibility and strength in an individual. It may also build some endurance since it is fast paced and can be a slower form of cardio exercise.
There are many gyms that offer power yoga as an alternative to those who are not so keen on the slow pace and constant need of meditation and enlightenment of traditional yoga. In other words, this form of yoga is for those who wish to be associated with a form of exercise called yoga, but has little to do with the traditional yoga.
