To Sara of Fit by Sara: “I’ve heard that yoga can give you a great body, but I’m really wanting to firm my abs and arms. Can yoga give me the results I’m looking for? And if yes, what type of yoga do you recommend, and how often?”
Yoga can definitely give you the results you are looking for if you practice it regularly. Yoga stengthens, lenghtens, and tones the muscles for a lean, long look. Yoga particularly works the core or abdominal and low back muscles and the muscles of the shoulders, back, and upper arms–all muscles really! For reference check out the physiques of people who practice yoga regularly and you’ll notice they typically have lean long muscles.
There are many styles of yoga all of which have benefits. If you’re looking to lose weight and get in some cardio my personal favorite is “Vinyasa”. Vinyasa incorporates multiple postures known as “asanas” into a flowing sequence. The result is an increase in heart rate, working multiple muscles, and a lean “long” look to the muscles. Work up to taking a Vinyasa class 3-4 x per week. Most classes are 1hr.- 1hr. 15 min.. I recommend trying a few different yoga studios and teachers. Once you find the right match I know you’ll love how you look and feel in body, mind and spirit! -Sara Holliday MFT, CPT