Yoga for Weight Loss
Yoga is beneficial on so many levels. Many people are looking for weight loss–sometimes they are looking in all the wrong places. I used to be one of those people who felt only hardcore cardio and weights would lead to weight loss or weight management. Now I cannot bring myself to do any cardio that is not fun, and certainly no weights. But you can find me in the yoga studio 3-5 days a week. Why? Because it is enjoyable. This is one of the keys to weight loss success: having activities that you actually want to do. Without this, you will quickly lose interest in any new fitness routine.
How does it work? Yoga is far more intense than most people think. There are some classes or forms of it that are less intense. Most types, though, are quite challenging. I have had the pleasure of watching some bodybuilder guys try it (piece of cake, right?). They find themselves barely able to struggle through to the end and walk out with the shame of having had their butts kicked. So, basically, it does burn calories. A typical class is pretty competitive with any other hour of cardio you might do.
Also, it is weight bearing exercise, even if it is your own weight. So it does build muscle in this way–and muscle is metabolically active. This means muscle tissue burns more calories during rest. You will be surprised to see the changes in your form that come from yoga. It can take you by surprise because you don’t necessarily go into yoga expecting to ’sculpt’ your body.
Non-hunger (or emotional) eating is a major issue with weight struggles. I am a dietitian, so after treating thousands of clients, I am pretty clear on the true cause of weight issues. I find that yoga can be helpful with this aspect as well. Because it can help with emotional regulation (decreasing anxiety, depression and general burnout), you may find yourself less likely to seek food when not hungry. Self awareness is improved with a good practice. This type of awareness in daily life can make unconscious eating less likely. This can decrease your overall intake, leading to weight loss.
Weight loss is certainly not the most important benefit, but it is a potential bonus. It is nice to know that recommendations for exercise can easily be met with a yoga practice. No more need to sweat it out on the cardio and weight machines. You can happily sweat it out in yoga class instead!
August 6th, 2009 at 11:24 am
Healthy living is the key to a longer and more fulfilling life. To have exercise is one thing that should be given much importance. In order for you to keep track of your heart’s condition, a heart rate monitor is a good thing to have.
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