Why has yoga fitness become so popular? Although there are many hot spots for studios, there is hardly a health club that doesn’t have a fitness based version of yoga. Many people learn the basics in a health club and they begin to appreciate the results of a steady practice.
The benefits of yoga are undeniable, but even somebody who knows that yoga is worthwhile and has determined to make it a regular part of their life may sometimes find obstacles in their path. In this busy world, it isn’t always possible to make it to the studio for a regularly scheduled session. Work, family, vacations or other concerns may get in the way.
Because of this, instructors should explain to their students that they can actually do yoga anywhere, not just in the studio. After all, yoga is about more than just a few hours a week—it’s about creating a new, healthier lifestyle.
Yoga Fitness At WorkIf you’re trapped behind a desk at work, you may think there’s no way to get any yoga time, but you’d be wrong. You can actually make use of that desk and your chair to “sneak in” some yoga whenever you get a chance. Even just gently twisting in the chair can loosen up your spine and mitigate the negative effects of long-term sitting. Linear neck movements, twists, and side stretches are all practical ways you can unobtrusively work a little yoga into your day.
When TravelingWhen you’re traveling, it may seem like keeping up with a yoga fitness routine isn’t practical. But the truth is, all you need is a mat and some space. When you wake up in the morning, you can perform sun salutations from the floor of the hotel room where you’re staying. They’re a great way to wake up and get your blood circulating. You’ll feel better all day knowing that you started it out right. And many hotels have gyms with open floor space, so plan ahead and traveling won’t mean sacrificing your routine.
Although nothing can replace a normal, instructor-led session, it’s important for students to understand that they can practice yoga on their own when they need to. Instructors should make this clear and give their students some simple but effective routines to practice when they’re on their own.