Yoga's popularity has grown in the Unites States over the past few decades, with many people seeking its flexibility and stress-reducing benefits. However, yoga is not for everyone. If you've suffered a yoga injury, don't like the instructors or videos you've found, or just need a change of pace, there are plenty of alternative fitness styles -- many of which are comparable to yoga and may have similar benefits.
Fitness Classes
If you enjoy the group aspect of yoga classes, you can find a similar atmosphere in other kinds of fitness classes. Step aerobics, stationary bicycle, dance styles such as Zumba and other classes may be available at your fitness or community center. You can also find DVDs of these exercises to do in the comfort of your own home.
Tai Chi
If you like the meditative aspect of yoga but not the poses, consider tai chi. Tai chi has the same mind-body emphasis as yoga and also involves gentle movements and stretches, but the poses and sequences are different. There are several different styles of tai chi, some more fast-paced than others. When practiced regularly, tai chi may help reduce stress and improve your balance and agility.
Pilates
Yoga and Pilates often get lumped into the same category, with many studios offering both activities, but there are some differences. Pilates involves small, precise repetitions of movements or stretches, while yoga poses are often held statically for a period of time. Various kinds of equipment, including resistance bands and exercise balls, are also used in Pilates classes. However, like yoga, Pilates is designed to increase your core strength and flexibility using breath control and mind-body connections.
Low-Impact Exercises
One of the benefits of yoga is that it's considered a low-impact exercise, meaning it gives you an effective workout without putting too much strain on your joints. Most healthy people can do high-impact exercise effectively -- like running or sports -- but your doctor may advise you to seek low-impact activities if you've been injured or have a muscle or joint condition. Walking, bicycling, swimming or water aerobics, and elliptical training are a few low-impact yoga alternatives.
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