One of the most important decisions you will make when starting a yoga studio is what type of classes to offer. There are many types of yoga being practiced that fit a variety of needs and challenges. Make sure you only offer classes in types of yoga you or your staff are trained in and are comfortable with. Your yoga studio should offer classes that are enjoyable and beneficial for all levels of fitness.
Classes for Beginners
A class to offer for those just starting yoga is hatha. When people talk about yoga, in general, they are talking about this type of yoga. Hatha yoga offers a combination of poses, breathing techniques and meditation. Iyengar yoga is based on hatha yoga but simplified further. Iyengar yoga incorporates the use of aides such as cushions, blocks and straps. These aides are beneficial to those students who may be less flexible. They also make yoga available to all types of people, including the elderly, the disabled and those recovering from an injury.
Kripula Yoga
Kripalu yoga is slightly more advanced and suitable for those wanting to expand their yoga experience. Kripalu yoga is a three-level approach. In the first stage, you learn the poses and explore your body's capabilities. In stage two, you hold the poses longer, increasing your concentration and inner awareness. The third stage involves a deeper meditation where your body should move automatically from one pose to the next.
Advanced Classes
Ashtanga yoga is a physically challenging class for advanced students. In this type of yoga you synchronize your breathing with a series of progressive postures. This is meant to produce a high internal heat and thus a detoxifying sweat that rids the body of toxins. Bikram yoga uses a high room temperature to increase flexibility and detoxification. Power yoga is another popular class geared toward the more advanced student. Many of the poses in power yoga, such as pushups and handstands, resemble calisthenics. This type of yoga also does not let the student rest between poses, increasing the aerobic intensity.
Demographics
When starting a yoga studio, research your area's demographics and offer classes that suit the needs of those in the area. Cater to all ages and physical abilities. You may want to consider offering unisex classes or classes geared toward a certain age group. Assess the needs of your prospective client base and adapt your class type and schedule accordingly.
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