Yoga is an ideal workout for people of all fitness levels. With numerous health benefits and plenty of modifications, yoga helps everyone from the couch potato to the gym rat stay in shape.
Benefits Of Yoga
Here are some reasons you should consider adding yoga to your exercise regimen.
- Improved muscle strength tone
- Weight loss
- A balanced metabolism
- Increased flexibility
- Improved energy
- Cardio health
With all these benefits and more, maybe you’re ready to get started but wondering how.
Beginner Yoga Moves
Start with simple moves before attempting anything more complicated. You need to build strength for the advanced poses.
1. Mountain Pose
With your feet together and your shoulders relaxed, stand tall and distribute your weight evenly through your soles. Begin with your arms at your sides, then take a deep breath and raise your hands over your head. Reach up with your palms facing each other and your arms straight.
2. Downward Dog
Begin on your hand and knees with your hands directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Next, walk your hands a few inches forward and press your palms into the mat with fingers spread wide.
Then slowly push your hips up, bringing your body into an inverted “V.” Your feet should remain hip-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Hold this for three seconds.
3. Warrior
Begin with your legs about three feet apart, your right foot turned out 90 degrees and your left foot slightly in. Relax your shoulders and extend your arms out to the sides with palms facing down. Finally, bend your right knee 90 degrees, keeping it over your ankle. Look over your right hand and hold for one minute. Repeat on the other side.
4. Bridge Pose
Lie on the floor with your knees bent over your heels. Your arms should be at your sides with palms down. Exhale and lift your hips, pressing your feet into the floor. Press your arms down to the floor and bring your chest toward your chin. Continue lifting your hips until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Hold for one minute.
5. Crow Pose
For this move, start in the downward dog position. Then walk your feet forward until your knees are close enough to touch your arms. Next, bend your elbows and lift your heels off the floor. Your knees should rest on the outside of your arms. Keeping your toes on the floor and legs pressed against your arms, engage your abs. Hold for five to ten deep breaths.
To learn more about getting in shape, reach out to the fitness experts at Matrix Age Management today.
