by Gemma Delaney

Yoga, an ancient practice widely acknowledged for its effectiveness in reducing stress and enhancing flexibility, is now being reinvented as a powerhouse of fitness: Power Yoga. Adding a burst of vitality to the tranquil world of yoga, Power Yoga is a dynamic amalgamation of strength-building resistance work and traditional yoga; focusing mainly on resilience and tenacity.

What makes Power Yoga distinct is the interweaving of speed and intensity within the traditional yoga frames. A 25-minute circuit of Power Yoga doesn’t entail a languorous flow of postures but rather emphasises on swift, full-body workouts. Power Yoga sidelines the emphasis on spiritual practices, like meditative techniques and breathwork, shifting the focus towards robust exercise that ensures limberness, strength, and a sense of being grounded. As you engage in a Power Yoga workout, you can expect to activate every muscle in your body, including those little stabilisers often overlooked during routine fitness sessions.

Essential Tips for the Power Yoga Workout

To optimise the benefits of Power Yoga, the recommended sequence should ideally be executed four times. Postures are held for 30-60 seconds, while maintaining a stable and even breathing pattern throughout. Remember to alternate sides after each round.

Power Poses:

While your Power Yoga workout comprises several poses, few key ones with their benefits as listed below, offer a comprehensive fitness solution.

1. Chaturanga : Also known as Low Plank, this pose majorly focuses on strengthening your wrists, triceps, abs and lower back.
2. High Plank : Taking away stress from your triceps, this pose targets your core, shoulders and upper back.
3. Crescent Lunge : A significant full-body move that especially works on posture, the thigh and calf muscles while keeping the core strong.
4. Low Lunge Twist : This twist pose strengthens the legs, opens the hip flexors and releases any tension in the lower back.
5. Downward Dog : A pose that rectifies posture by straightening the spine, relieving tension in the lower back and strengthening your arms.
6. Calf Pedals : This movement enhances calf flexibility and strengthens shoulders.
7. Cobra : This pose notably stretches abs and lower back while strengthening glutes, shoulders, and neck.

Pair your Power Yoga routine with regular stretch and flexibility workouts for a balanced fitness schedule. So ladies, it’s time to roll out your yoga mats and embark on a powerful yoga path!

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