“Yoga”, a Sanskrit originated word which means ‘Union’ is an old discipline in India. Yoga has been known to benefit both physical and spiritual aspect of an individual. Today, yoga has gained popularity in the entire world. The physical aspect of yoga improves the flexibility of the joints, muscles and spine. But the function of “Asanas” (postures) are important for the benefit of mind, reducing stress level and anxiety. “Power Yoga” is a new form of yoga and is currently appreciated by many fitness enthusiasts and trainers due to its ability to provide good results for weight loss.

Several celebrities, one of them is Sara Ali Khan who almost weighed around 96 kgs during her teenage years, dealing with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) also struggled with hormonal imbalance. Her physical transformation is truly inspiring. She gives major credit of this change to power yoga, proper diet, Pilates, weight training and cardio exercises.

Power Yoga and its Health Benefits –

‘Power Yoga’ also referred to as ‘Superficial Gym Yoga’, is a branch of Ashtanga Yoga and has many advantages. It’s an overall body workout and following are its benefits –

Burns More Calories – In comparison to traditional yoga, Power Yoga needs more energy as it involves quicker movements and leads to increase in heart rate. Practicing power yoga properly can burn approximately 594 calories in 60 minutes.

Strengthens Muscles – Power Yoga increases muscle endurance because it takes a lot of strength to hold the body in a balanced pose (asana). Thus, it improves the overall posture of the body.

Increases Metabolism – It helps in increasing metabolic rate as yoga has a powerful effect on the endocrine organs of the body. With improved metabolic rate, it helps body to burn more calories and lose weight.

Enhances Stamina and Core strength – Performing yoga lowers down stress; hence increases the energy level and reduces fatigue. Power yoga works on core muscles – abdomen and back muscles which enhances overall stability of the body.

Improves Mental Strength – It helps in increasing mental awareness, sharpens attention and concentration. Moreover, it also helps in calming down the nervous system of the body by reducing stress hormones.

Adding different forms of Power yoga such as basic squats, abdominal churning to daily fitness routine can help an individual to achieve weight loss goals and tone the body. But one should avoid practicing power yoga during pregnancy or if suffering from serious conditions like Arthritis, diabetes or if you have just had a major surgery.

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