Fitness benefits of yoga differ by style

The fitness benefits of yoga depends on which style or method one practices (Cowen & Adams, 2005).

Before this creates a long debate regarding which style is the best, let us be reminded of the ultimate goal of yoga - self-realization, enlightenment, integration, union.

The different approaches to the asana method simply give us options. My thought is... whatever style you choose, keep these two things in mind:

1. A traditional method is good because it provides us with lineage and keeps us close to the original goal. Examples of traditional approaches are Ashtanga vinyasa yoga, Iyengar, and Sivananda.
2. A contemporary approach is as good because it utilizes modern approaches, uses research-based information from exercise science and psychology, and may be more applicable to the present. Some of these contemporary approaches are Jivamukti Yoga, Anusara, and Bikram.

Read the abstract of the article by Cowen and Adams here.

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Cowen, V. C., & Adams, T. B. (2005). Physical and perceptual benefits of yoga asana practice: result of a pilot study. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 9, 211-219.

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