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(Have you tried Bikram?)

Or say that it isn’t good cardio.

person doing yoga in the sun

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The fact that it keeps my mind clear and my body strong is just a bonus.

“, and the mind-numbing monotony of those machines is certainly not the way to do that.

So, read on to checkout eight different styles of yoga and find your best match.

Hatha yoga woman

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Meet the Experts

Catherine Howe is a certified yoga instructor and owner of Sensory Yoga Wellness.

According to Harvard Medical School, someone weighing 155 pounds can burn about 150 calories in a 30-minute class.

Vinyasa

Try it if:You want to make yoga your primary workout.

bikram yoga benefits

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In this way, the movements are very deliberately synced with thebreath, and they transition quickly.

Ashtanga

Try it if:You’re a creature of habit who doesn’t mind a challenge.

Howe says you create a lot of internal heat (tapas) during Ashtanga.

person does iyengar type yoga practice at home

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With that comes the feeling of purification of mind and body.

Purpose and focus are key in Ashtanga, explains Howe.

Due to the intensity, caloric expenditure may be higher than most types of yoga.

person does yoga on patio

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Plus, you might build muscularstrength, power, and cardiovascular endurance.

Be prepared to sweat a lot, too.

Even though Ashtanga is intense, beginners can still give it a go.

True Ashtanga asks that you practice six days a weekits a commitment, shares Howe.

However, it’s possible for you to certainlyset your own scheduleand do what works for you.

Bikram

Try it if:You want to really push your boundaries.

(Boot camp fans, this is your jam.)

It isverytough, but it doesn’t boast a cult following for nothing.

And, the calorie burn may be significant.

And, all that quaking will burn calories.

Kundalini

Try it if:Youre interested in exploring the more spiritual side of yoga.

Kundalini is very spiritual and encourages the journey within, notes Howe.

While calories here are minimal, the emotional impact is far greater.

The reduction in stress and increase in relaxation pays off, notes Howe.

Its a juicy practice; it feels very indulgent.

Anusara

Try it if:Youre looking for an uplifting, positive mindset-focused practice.

The belief is that alignment will bring the natural flow of energy, bliss, and joy.

Because alignment is a central concept, as with Iyengar yoga, props like blocks are often used.

Harvard Health Publishing.Calories burned in 30 minutes for people of three different weights.

Updated March 8, 2021.

2021;29(3):512-520. doi:10.1002/oby.23089