What is power yoga?

What is power yoga? Is it okay for beginners?

Power yoga is a style of yoga that moves quickly from one posture to the next. The foundation of this practice are 3 variations of the sun salutation, named simply A, B, and C. All of the other standing postures are thrown into modifications of these 3 series, making the practice very vigorous and challenging. Generally, non "power yoga" yoga classes are slower, softer and a bit more static.
The problem with power yoga and the beginning student is that there is none to very little alignment instruction provided. The other problem is that a beginning student doesn't know how or when to slow down, stop or modify a posture. Both of these problems lead to yoga students hurting themselves in class by poor alignment in the postures and by over exerting themselves and going past their edge.

Ahimsa, the yogic practice of non violence must be adhered to when engaging in the practice of hatha yoga. Respect your body's limitations and inner wisdom, if something feels wrong or dangerous, please do not do it.

Please consult your health care practitioner before starting a yoga, pranayama or other exercise program.