Adelaide Man Tells Truth About Yoga for Men

 

It may be 2019, but lets face it, we are working hard to break down many stereotypes. One of those places? Yoga, of course.

We chat with Yoga Theory founder, Ben Greenwood about busting some of those yoga myths! Including whether there is yoga for men or is it just for women. 

What are some yoga myths?

There are so many different types of yoga, that most people have different ideas about what yoga actually is.

Some people think yoga is just resting on your back and chanting Omm. Others think there are no therapeutic benefits to practicing yoga, or that there’s no yoga for men.

But, this couldn’t be further from the truth. 

Yes, from a historic perspective, a lot of people see yoga as a purely spiritual practice. So naturally some styles of yoga may focus on that aspect more than others.

In reality though, the yoga landscape is changing. More styles of yoga are opening up, and a physical approach towards yoga is becoming more pervasive.

A lot of modern yoga classes focus on the physical and mental practices instead of a purely traditional spiritual practice.

How do you tackle those myths?

I think to tackle these myths or misconceptions about yoga, it is important for yoga studios to clearly label their classes, styles and philosophies.

This way people don’t get confused.

But even better, this would encourage more people to practice yoga and find a class that works for them, and their values of yoga.

So, is yoga just for women?

A lot of people think yoga is just for women.

That’s simply not true.

Although statistics show more women practice yoga than men, yoga really is for everyone.

In fact, a lot of the traditional yoga was mostly practiced by men.

But, in the west, I think a lot of men just don’t really know what to expect from yoga.

Or they may go to one yoga class and realize that style wasn’t for them, without realizing all of the other different styles available.

Okay, but is yoga really for anyone?

As a general rule, you don’t need to be fit or flexible to start the practice of yoga.

That is more so a result than a necessity of practice.

You just have to make sure you are doing the practice correctly.

If not, there’s a chance of injury, even if you are fit and flexible.

For this reason, if you are a beginner or senior, it is recommended trying a slower style of yoga. 

Learn the foundations first, before jumping in to a faster vinyasa class.

So, to answer the questions, yes, yoga is for everyone, just make sure you get the right fit.

How do you manage different students at Yoga Theory?

At Yoga Theory we offer a balance and stretch class for complete beginners to learn the foundations.

A few weeks here and they are ready for the vinyasa flow classes.

We also limit our classes to 10 people. This way we know everyones level and can adapt accordingly.

Because we know everyone by name, we can give everyone options and make sure everyone practices yoga safely.

It is important for yoga students, especially if new, to find a yoga class, style and teacher that works with them and their values. 

Also, make sure the style is attentive to your needs, and don’t get ripped off!

Learn more about our yoga studio here