Yoga Challenges for Men

Yoga presents some physical challenges that are specific to men. For instance, men tend to be less flexible than women, and have a higher center of gravity, which can affect their balance. Men's narrow hips can also affect their balance, particularly in asanas with a wider stance, such as the warrior series. Fortunately, with regular yoga practice, balance and flexibility improve, and these challenges are no longer an issue.

Men also tend to carry extra weight higher in their bodies than women do, most frequently in the abdomen, rather than the hips and thighs. This can affect the balance as well as make asanas done lying on the belly (boat, bow) uncomfortable. It also makes forward bending asanas more difficult. Yoga, however, can aid in weight loss, by providing much-needed exercise, and focusing the mind and body to give you the mental clarity and self-control necessary to stick to a weight-loss plan.

Yoga provides many benefits for men. Asana practice improves balance and flexibility while the meditation practices of yoga are wonderful stress-reducers. Men who enjoy contact sports find yoga useful because it can help prevent injuries by stretching and loosening muscles and tendons. Yoga practice improves focus, which is important in competitive sports. Golfers are prone to uneven muscle development, and yoga helps to ease muscle tension and strengthen weak areas. Yoga is ideal for men who are uncomfortable with competitive or team sports, as well as men who enjoy lifting weights, as the stretches keep muscles long, preventing them from developing a "muscle bound" appearance.

A beginner Hatha yoga class is an ideal introduction to yoga practice. Men often find more active styles of yoga very effective; for example, Iyengar yoga (good for runners and serious athletes), Ashtanga or "Power" yoga (physically demanding, provides good cardiovascular exercise), Vinyasa yoga (excellent for strength training); but do try several styles to see which one suits you best.

Yoga is for everyone ~ men, women, the young and the old. It will challenge your body and enrich your mind and spirit leading to a more balanced life ~try yoga at home at www.yogayak.com . Take a moment to observe inside your mind and body so that you can spend more time playing outside!

Namaste.