Power Yoga

Power Yoga, (also called Power Flow), is a modern day name for a past-faced, active yoga class. It has its roots in Ashtanga yoga. Often Power Yoga incorporates many Sun Salutations and Vinyasas. These can elevate the heart rate and generate heat in the body.

Over the past five years, Power Yoga has grown in popularity, especially as people are turning to yoga as a form of cardiovascular exercise as well. There is much controversy about the autenticity of Power Yoga as a form of yoga. However, when taught by a qualified and highly trained teacher, it can be very beneficial to the body. Baron Baptiste is credited as being one of the main founders of Power Yoga.

Power Yoga should be avoided by the following people:

• Those new to yoga. It will likely move too quickly and will be hard to keep up. Those who do not know any of the yoga poses or alignment principles should avoid power yoga as their first introduction to yoga as it might lead to injury.
• Those in poor physical health as well as those who suffer from high blood pressure or heart issues.
• Seniors
• Those with injuries

If you do take lots of power yoga classes, it is good to also round it out with some slower paced, more restorative classes. Some of yoga's greatest benefits come with a slower, more relaxing and meditative practice.