You’ve heard about the benefits of yoga; with so many variations available, it can be hard to choose. I tried out two weeks of flow and power yoga, here are my thoughts.
At Temple University, students can take workout classes at their local university gym. I recently took advantage of this service and allotted two weeks to trying out flow and power yoga on a consistent basis. I discovered some interesting findings. For Temple students interested, you can find workout classes here.
As I began my yoga journey, I decided I would track three major components after each class: my energy levels, physical reaction, and emotional reaction.
My first class was led by Claire, who teaches power yoga. As I walked in, soothing indie music played over the recreation room’s speakers and continued throughout the entirety of the class. Claire greeted the class, quickly modeled a flow we would perform consistently, and then began teaching. The class concluded with a shavasana meditation session. The class was not overly challenging, but I was covered in a coating of sweat by the end.
Following the class, my energy levels were high, and I could easily continue working out if I desired. My body physically felt an endorphin rush, I was not overworked but clearly felt that my muscles were engaged. Finally, I felt a nice balance of strength from the core-building flows in contrast with the relaxing final shavasana session.
The first flow yoga class I attended was led by Rajani. As opposed to Claire, Rajani favored a silent room with no music. Rajani similarly greeted the class and then had us calmly begin a flow, starting in child’s pose. Also similar to Claire’s class, we concluded with a shavasana session. This class favored a much slower pace as opposed to the power yoga class. Rajani had us maintain long poses that focused on balance, flexibility, and attention to breathing. On the other hand, the power yoga class had us quickly run through poses to maintain a higher heart rate.
Following the class, my energy levels were high, but I did not feel the same drive to continue working out as I did after the power yoga class. Physically, my body felt very loose and extremely calm. I felt connected and strong from the long poses in addition to being immensely relaxed from the final shavasana session.
My classes with Claire and Rajani mimicked a similar model over the two weeks and my results remained consistent. As opposed to my initial assumptions, the varying yoga types continually established specific results that I loved.
Two weeks later, I enjoyed both forms of yoga for different reasons. Both yoga forms have proven to be great outlets for stress release and increasing strength and flexibility. However, I have concluded that power yoga is best for those looking for something to compliment another fitness regimen and for those who enjoy fast, cardio-based workouts. Conversely, flow yoga is ideal for someone looking to improve their flexibility and endurance while maintaining a healthy breath cycle at a slower pace.
So, which yoga form are you going to try next? Either way, you will not be disappointed.