There are many yoga styles and not all suit everyone. The Cleveland Clinic groups them into seven main families.
1. Hatha
Standing and seated poses held for a few breaths. Ideal for learning the basics.
2. Restorative and yin
Slow, floor-based practices for all levels. Restorative aims for full relaxation with props; yin uses long stretches for connective tissue.
3. Iyengar
Poses held with great precision and props such as chairs, blocks and straps. For all ages, including people with injuries.
4. Vinyasa or flow
Dynamic, with fluid transitions linked to the breath. If you are new, look for a slow flow.
5. Hot yoga and Bikram
Intense, in heated rooms. Hydration, good health and experience are essential.
6. Ashtanga
Fixed series of poses, demanding from the first level.
7. Power
Similar to ashtanga without a set sequence. An athletic strength and endurance workout.
How to choose
- Think about what you want: calm, strength, flexibility, stress relief.
- If you are new, try hatha, slow flow or restorative.
- Look for trained teachers who encourage you to respect your limits.
- Class should be free of competition and judgement.
Source: Cleveland Clinic – How to find the best yoga class for you.
