Workout Ideas: Alternative Types of Yoga

Part meditation, part fitness regimen, yoga can help athletes of all skill levels achieve a holistically healthy lifestyle — but you shouldn’t feel confined to the typical Hatha class.

The yoga experts at DICK’S Sporting Goods let us in on what’s trending in the studio—and these classes are the perfect way to mix up your current workout routine.

Power Yoga: More formally called “vinyasa,” Power Yoga has remained popular across the country for much of the last decade. Vinyasa Flow is an exceptionally athletic form of yoga, moving you through a sequence of fluid, dance-like poses. Synchronized breaths and movements help energize and strengthen the body.

Deep Meditative Yoga: Perhaps in response to the popularity of Power Yoga, slower, more meditative classes are again on the rise. While all yoga practices emphasize spiritual and mental well-being, these classes focus on meditation, deep breathing and restorative poses.

Doga: This practice takes downward dog to a completely new level. In Doga, dogs and humans work as a single unit on the mat. Pet owners help position their dogs in various poses, and Fido is sometimes used as a prop for asanas. Doga classes help strengthen the bond between human and canine.

Beach Yoga: Yoga at the beach is especially revitalizing — imagine meditating to the rhythmic sound of water meeting the shore. Plus, practicing on an uneven sand surface helps tone secondary muscles. Be sure to sign up for a class on your next vacation.

Acro Yoga: This practice blends acrobatics and yoga with a series of dynamic aerial postures. Bases and flyers must work together to achieve challenging poses. Devotees claim it improves balance and overall body strength while forging stronger human connections. Don’t try Acro Yoga at home — always work alongside an experienced instructor to master the basics.

Stand-Up Paddle Board Yoga: Looking for a new yoga challenge? Break out your paddle board. Practicing yoga on an unstable paddle board engages core muscles and helps you refine your technique. Many yogis love the sensation of floating on water — it can help you relax and focus on your breath.