While some of yoga's benefits overlap with the benefits of exercise, there are also many differences. Some types of yoga are not exercise at all, and most types offer benefits that exercise doesn't. Then again, while athletes might find yoga exercises helpful, yoga might not be enough to satisfy their need for movement, competition and variety.
Types of Yoga
In Sanskrit, the word "yoga" means "union." It is about the human uniting with the divine. Only a small part of yoga falls into the category of exercise. Hatha yoga is the type of yoga which concentrates on physical postures. Non-exercise oriented forms include Bhakti, the yoga of devotion, which involves prayer and chanting; Karma yoga, the practice of selfless service; and Jnana, which necessitates the reading of sacred texts and understanding complicated philosophy.
Focus
Mental focus is one big difference between yoga and exercise. While performing yoga postures, yogis attempt to keep their minds in the present moment by focusing on their breath and bodily sensations. Serious athletes might also do this, but many exercisers allow their minds to flit around. Group exercise teachers sometimes talk about movies or other distracting topics while leading class. Many people in gyms read magazines, listen to music or watch TV while running on treadmills or peddling stationary bicycles.
Benefits of Yoga
Some of the benefits of yoga and exercise overlap, especially if you're doing a vigorous physical yoga practice. In general, yoga involves slower movements and more static holds. You try to use just enough energy to accomplish the postures and to balance the use of all muscle groups. Yoga is process-oriented and noncompetitive. While people can and do injure themselves from yoga, it's lower risk than most sports. Stretching your muscles makes them larger and improves their ability to extract and use oxygen. This leads to greater muscle endurance and strength.
Benefits of Exercise
Exercise is usually more fatiguing than yoga. The goal of a workout is to increase the heart rate and to tire the muscles. This burns more calories, which is good if you have a weight-loss goal. Exercise is more likely to be goal-oriented and competitive. The focus is usually more external, such as reaching a finish line or improving your time. Depending on your personality and goals, you might prefer yoga or other forms of exercise. Since the dangers of a sedentary life have been well-established, it's best to find an exercise that suits your body and personality and stick with it.
Member Comments