The P90X workout uses a specific order of exercises to change the strength and shape of your body. Tony Horton created this system to use different exercises every day. This variety includes a yoga workout as part of your weekly exercise program. However, if you have Christian religious reasons against yoga -- such as bowing down to Hindu gods with each pose or using mind-opening meditation -- an exercise substitute is necessary. Also, if you have physical limitations which prevent you from performing yoga poses, you require an alternative.
P90X Yoga
P90X yoga uses traditional yoga strengthening, stretching and breathing poses to change your body. These exercises include those such as Warrior I, in which you maintain a lunge position as you hold your arms over your head. Other yoga postures include chair, which is a squat -- and crocodile which is a close-handed pushup. Yoga sequences poses together to create a flow from one posture to the next.
Religion
Yoga has its roots in the Hindu religion. Each yoga pose corresponds to a Hindu god. Christians, such as author Laurette Willis, fear that as you participate in yoga, you are worshipping the god that is attached to each pose, according to The Christian Broadcasting Network. Christians are taught to worship only one God. Another concern for some Christians is the "opening" of the mind during yoga breath work. Laurette says that if your mind is open it is open to evil as well as good. An alternative to yoga is Pilates. Pilates uses exercises that allow a conscious mind/body connection. Pilates exercises flow in a dynamic, rather than static, sequence from one exercise to the next. The exercises are based on anatomical positions not gods and you will receive strengthening and stretching benefits.
Flexibility and Strength
Yoga's benefits include flexibility and strength. Instead of performing the yoga poses, use strengthening exercises that are not sequenced together and follow those with stretching exercises. For example, perform 10 to 12 pushups and then grasp your hands together behind your back in a standing position to open up your chest. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds. Another example is to perform moving lunges in which you step one foot approximately 3 feet forward and bend both knees to lower your body toward the floor. Return your foot underneath you and then raise that foot behind your body with a bent knee. Hold onto the ankle to stretch the front of your thigh.
Physical Limitations
A back, knee or shoulder injury will limit your yoga participation. Yoga moves depend on a flexible spine, strong legs and strong arms to flow through the yoga postures. Instead of performing yoga poses, use strength training exercises that limit your range of motion and protect your injury. For example, perform a supported wall squat with your back against the wall and your knees only slightly bent instead of an unsupported chair pose. Move slowly and avoid pain as you exercise. Stretch your large muscle groups such as your chest, back and legs to improve your flexibility.
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