Vinyasa yoga focuses on sequences of poses at a faster pace than other types of yoga, and it requires proper breathing techniques. Breathing and meditation develop a mind to body connection in the workout. In addition to increased strength and flexibility, reduced stress and anxiety can lead to a combination of physical, mental and emotional benefits.
Vinyasa Class
Vinyasa yoga class participants move through a series of linked poses more quickly compared with other types of yoga classes. The poses are synchronized to specific breathing patterns designed to lead the participant into the next pose. An example is the Sun Salutation Series, a warmup using all of your muscle groups. The series moves from a standing position to lunging positions, floor poses, back to lunging positions, and ends with a standing position.
Class Components
Yoga class components start with an introduction, pre-warmup and warmup to gradually increase heart rate and respiration from a resting to active state. Increased blood flow to your muscles generates heat and joint lubrication to prepare your body for the workout. The peak section of the class consists of exercises or poses to increase strength, endurance and flexibility. The cooldown gradually decreases heart rate and respiration to a resting state. Deeper stretches further increase flexibility and decrease stiffness. Finally, meditation and relaxation bring your body to a restorative state.
Vinyasa Class Types
Variations of Vinyasa yoga classes draw from workout goals and fitness level of participants. Awakening classes, held earlier in the day, may work on increasing energy levels and breathing, while restorative classes, held later in the day, may be geared toward increased meditation and relaxation. Gentle Vinyasa classes focus on basic movements at a slower pace for learning proper alignment and breathing. Flowing, sculpting and cardio-based classes are for intermediate to advanced participants, increasing intensity levels and movement speed. Instructional variations include slow to fast sequences, simple to complex and part to whole, focusing on progression through skill levels.
Benefits
The increased pace of the Vinyasa yoga class focuses on muscular strength and endurance. Increased circulation and respiration improves cardiovascular endurance levels. When combined with proper nutrition, additional results may include weight loss.
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