Saturday, June 11, 2011

Move of the Week: Bikram Yoga

Okay, so Bikram Yoga isn't one move- but I wanted to blog about it this week because for the past week I've being going to Bikram Yoga Edmonton. A few months ago I tried Bikram with my mom at the St.Albert studio and really enjoyed it, and finally this week I had a little bit more time to give it a try again.
The studio offers 8 days of unlimited classes to new students for only $30. The more you go, the less expensive each class costs. Normal drop in classes are $18.
I know a lot of people cringe at the idea of yoga- especially bikram yoga. I used to be one of those people who thought that yoga wasn't for me. I didn't need it. It wouldn't help me. I already do so much physical activity... whatever excuses or reasons. Plus, I had tried conventional yoga (or whatever- the yoga with the downward dogs and stuff...) and it really bothered my wrist and hand.
Turns out- I sort of thrive in that 40+ degree room and the postures are exactly what I need for my sore back and tight hamstrings. There are 26 postures in a standing and seated series-done in every class along with two breathing exercises.*
Note: almost every single movement will feel odd in some capacity when you first start. Your body will probably fight you in every way- and it doesn't help that its really really hot in the room. In fact- the goal of your first class is to just stay in the room for the full 90 minutes!
My favorite moves at the moment are:
Half Moon Pose


Standing Bow Pose

Bow Pose

Now, I'm not trying to convert you to Bikram or anything like that. The point of this post, in its heart, is to compel you to try something new, whatever that may be. You may or may not like it, but you don't know until you try! Bikram challenges me in a way that I'm not challenged by my other workouts. Plus, I think it'll help me de-stress at the end of the day, an added bonus! 

Happy Moving!

*Disclaimer: I am not certified fitness professional. I offer only my own personal advice and perspective as well as links to instruction. Don't do any exercise you are not comfortable with. Consult with a doctor and fitness professional before engaging in new physical activity. 

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