Which Yoga Class Should I Try? 6 Different Types to Help You Find Your Perfect Fit

Once you’ve decided to try yoga, it can be a bit intimidating when you go to your studio’s website to sign up for a class and see that there are 15 different types of classes to choose from.  The terms used in some of the class descriptions might be unfamiliar (read more about yoga jargon here), and we are left feeling directionless as to which to choose.  Do we start with Yin yoga?  What is Yin yoga?  Should we take a Hatha class?  Would restorative yoga be best for us?  What about a heated class?

Deciding to take up a yoga practice is a powerful decision you can make for your overall well-being.  Whatever your holistic health goals are, yoga can help you obtain them.  At Inspiring Actions, we are here to help you learn about different types of yoga classes and choose the best style for you to get started.  Whether it’s Yin, Hatha, or Vinyasa that resonates with you, our studios in Hudson and River Falls, Wisconsin have a class for you.  In this post, we’ll define the various types of yoga that we offer, and who they are best suited for.    

Hatha Yoga Class

Hatha Yoga is the foundation for many modern styles of yoga, making it a great starting point for those looking to explore the practice.  Hatha incorporates the physical postures of yoga (asana) with breathing techniques (pranayama) to help build strength, increase flexibility, and quiet the mind.  Hatha classes typically include a sequenced flow practiced at a slower pace than other styles that incorporate this movement/breath connection, such as Vinyasa or Ashtanga Yoga.  This type of yoga is usually good for all levels but check the class description carefully; Hatha is a very broad term and doesn’t always denote a beginner-level class. 

At Inspiring Actions, we are here to help you learn about different types of yoga classes and choose the best style for you to get started.  Whether it’s Yin, Hatha, or Vinyasa that resonates with you, our studios in Hudson and River Falls, Wisconsin have a class for you.  In this post, we’ll define the various types of yoga that we offer, and who they are best suited for.    

Barre Yoga Class

Barre Yoga is a unique class perfect for people looking to change it up!  This type of class is an invigorating full-body workout that combines ballet movements, Pilates strength training, and yoga-style stretching, using a traditional ballet barre.  Classes are typically of a hybrid nature, including both barre work and time on the mat. 

Barre Yoga works to improve your alignment, build core strength, and sculpt and lengthen your muscles.  It can also be helpful with posture-related issues and coordination.  Barre yoga is a low-impact, yet very effective workout. Typically suitable for all levels, Barre Yoga is perfect for those looking for an upbeat and creative twist on traditional asana, and it’s a lot of fun! And don’t worry, there is no ballet experience necessary to take a Barre Yoga class!

Vinyasa Yoga Class

Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic and invigorating form of yoga that synchronizes breath with movement similar to Hatha, but with more intensity and faster sequencing from one pose to the next.  It can accommodate all levels of practitioners, but it is particularly suited for those seeking a more challenging physical practice.  Vinyasa classes are known for their emphasis on continuous movement, building heat and strength, and flowing sequences of postures that may include arm balances, inversions, and backbends.  If you are looking for a challenging and energizing workout that will leave you feeling stronger and more focused, Vinyasa yoga may be the perfect fit for you.

Yin Yoga Class

Yin yoga is a gentle, meditative approach to the practice. This form of yoga is accessible for all levels, but it is particularly beneficial for beginners as the longer holds allow for a deeper exploration of the poses.  In a Yin Yoga class, poses are held for a period of anywhere between about 3 – 10 minutes.  These deep holds stretch our body’s connective tissues (tendons, ligaments and fascia), making them longer and more fluid, so Yin is a great choice if you are looking to improve flexibility.  A Yin yoga class is also good for quieting the mind.  It offers the chance to look inward, both physically and mentally, and to mindfully relax our muscles and detach from our thoughts. 

Deciding which type of yoga class to try can be overwhelming, but it is important to remember that there is no right or wrong choice.  Each type of class offers different benefits and experiences, so it is up to you to find the one that resonates with you the most.

Somatic Movement

A Somatic Movement class involves the belief that negative energy from our repressed emotions and past traumas and stressors gets stored in our body and can manifest both physically in symptoms like muscular tension and pain, as well as emotionally, in things like anxiety and PTSD.  Somatic yoga classes involve small, precise movements designed to release energy in specific parts of the body. 

Somatic movement teach the nervous system how to release chronic muscle tension by interrupting the learned stress-response patterns that we’ve developed over the course of our lives.  It can help people restore their mind-body connection to heal from the problematic and often physical after-effects of trauma and stress. 

Restorative Yoga Class

Restorative yoga is a relaxing practice that focuses on slowing down and restoring the body.  This class often includes the use of props such as blankets, blocks, and bolsters to help support and facilitate deep relaxation.  Restorative Yoga is perfect for those looking to unwind and release tension from the body. As you hold poses for an extended period of time, your body is able to fully let go of stress and tension, while your mind can find a sense of peace and stillness. Restorative yoga is a great option for those recovering from injury or illness, or simply looking to prioritize rest and relaxation in their yoga practice.

Deciding which type of yoga class to try can be overwhelming, but it is important to remember that there is no right or wrong choice.  Each type of class offers different benefits and experiences, so it is up to you to find the one that resonates with you the most.  You might try out a few types of classes before settling on a certain one, or you may find that you prefer variety.  Whether you’re interested in a physical practice to kickstart your day, or prefer a more gentle style that encourages self-reflection and relaxation, there is a yoga class that will help you reach your goals.  

If you’re feeling confused or overwhelmed by your options, take some time to do your research so you can make an informed decision.  What’s important is that the class aligns with your intention: what do you hope to get out of the practice?  Is it a physical challenge, relaxation, or a combination?  Figure out what you are looking to address through yoga, and choose the classes you try based on that insight.  This will help guide you toward classes that incorporate what’s needed for your individual healing and growth.  All yoga is good yoga, but finding specific styles that work best for you can help deepen and enhance your practice.  Once you’ve decided, don’t hesitate to give it a try!

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