Issue Date: November 2, 2008
Which yoga is right for you?
Madonna twists herself into a pretzel during her concerts. Sting, Christy Turlington, Annette Bening and Gwyneth Paltrow can't get enough. What is it that these great-looking stars are doing right? It's yoga, and maybe you should give it a try.
Benefits differ for each type.
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According to "Yoga Journal," 6.9% of U.S. adults, or 15.8 million people, practice yoga. In addition, about 9.4 million people who don't practice it say they intend to try yoga within the year.
Interested in flexing your flexibility? There are many types of yoga, and they all have different benefits and believers. Most physical forms of yoga fall into the category of "hatha" -- yogic exercises emphasizing specific postures and breathing. To get started, find classes near you online at yogafinder.com.
Yoga styles vary greatly by instructor, but here's a guide to popular forms:
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YOGA TYPE
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WHAT IT IS
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IS IT FOR YOU
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MORE INFO
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Ashtanga
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Intense classes focus on synchronizing breath with a fast-paced series of postures.
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For those who want a serious workout. Madonna does it.
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ashtanga.com
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Power yoga
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Rigorous workout focuses on strength and flexibility while keeping heart rate elevated. Little to no chanting is involved.
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Americanized yoga. A tough workout is the focus; Helen Hunt and Raquel Welch power through.
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Pick up Baron Baptiste's "The Yoga Bootcamp Box," or visitpoweryoga.com
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Bikram
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26 set postures in 90 minutes performed in a 105-degree studio.
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Not for the faint of heart; a definite physical challenge.
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bikramyoga.com
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Iyengar
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Focus is on the nuances of each pose. Postures are held longer for close attention to body alignment.
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A great start for the less flexible; use of helpful props is encouraged.
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iyengar-yoga.com
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Jorge Cruise is the author of three consecutive best sellers. Visit thebellyfatcure.com for his free health report.
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