Cardio yoga is an invigorating blend of cardio exercise and traditional yoga postures designed to get your heart pumping. Unlike more intense cardio exercises such as running, it is a low-impact form of exercise that’s easy on the joints and muscles. In this article, we will cover the many benefits of cardio yoga, as well as some workouts that you can try. Read on to learn more about it and the amazing health benefits it has to offer!
What Is Cardio Yoga?
Cardio yoga is a unique form of exercise that combines cardio, core strength training, and traditional yogic postures. It can be performed as a stand-alone cardio exercise or incorporated into an existing yoga practice. While it is often considered to be easier than more intensive cardio exercises such as running, it can still provide a great cardio workout.
This form of exercise typically consists of dynamic postures linked together in a flow, moving from one posture to the next with a cardio-style intensity. The key is to keep your heart rate up while still maintaining good form and proper breathing. This combination of cardio and yoga can help improve cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and balance.
Benefits
- Cardio yoga is a great way to get fit without overworking your body.
- It builds strength, increases flexibility, and improves cardiovascular fitness — all in one workout.
- It’s also perfect for beginners because it is low-impact and easy to modify.
- Cardio yoga helps reduce stress levels, improves mental focus, and increases energy levels.
- It can help you improve your balance and coordination, as well as the overall strength of your body.
- It’s also a great way to break up the monotony of your usual cardio routine.
Best Cardio Yoga Workouts For You
1. Sun Salutation:
This cardio yoga sequence also known as Surya Namaskar, is a great way to get your heart rate up and activate the entire body.
How to do it: Start in mountain pose, then move into a forward fold. From there, move into a plank pose. Next, lower down to your belly for chaturanga and up a dog. From there, move into downward dog and then back to the front of your mat for another forward fold. Repeat this sequence 4-5 times to really get your heart rate up.
2. Cardio Core Flow:
This cardio yoga sequence combines cardio with some abdominal work.
How to do it: Start in mountain pose, then move into a low lunge. From there, move into a side plank and then back to the low lunge. Next, move back to mountain pose and then perform 5 burpees. Continue the sequence with 4 more mountain poses and 3 burpees. Repeat this workout sequence several times to get your heart rate up and strengthen your core.
3. Bird-Dog Cardio Flow:
This cardio yoga sequence is perfect for strengthening the core, arms, and legs.
How to do it: Start in a low plank position, with your palms flat on the ground. From there, move into an alternating knee tuck while lifting the opposite arm out in front of you. Alternate this movement for 10 reps. Next, move into a one-legged downward dog while lifting your opposite arm. Hold this posture for 5 breaths before repeating it on the other side.
4. Jump And Lunge Cardio Flow:
This cardio yoga sequence is great for cardio and strength training.
How to do it: Start in mountain pose, then move into a wide squat. From there, jump up and land in a lunge position with your hands in a prayer position. Repeat this movement for 8 reps before taking a rest. Next, move into a jumping jack motion for 10 reps and then finish off with another 8 reps of the jump and lunge cardio flow.
5. Power Vinyasa:
This cardio yoga sequence is great for cardio, strength, and toning.
How to do it: Start in mountain pose, then move into a forward fold. From there, jump back into the plank position. Lower yourself down for chaturanga and come up for Upward dog before moving into Downward Dog. Next, move back to the front of your mat for a high lunge and then back to the beginning of your sequence. Repeat this workout sequence several times to get your heart rate up and strengthen your body.
Overall, cardio yoga is a great way to keep your body healthy and strong by combining cardio, strength training, and flexibility in one workout.
Is Cardio Yoga Good For Weight Loss?
Yes, it can be a great way to help you lose weight. It helps to burn calories while also building lean muscle and improving your flexibility. Additionally, it can help reduce stress levels and improve your mental focus. This can lead to better overall eating habits that will help you reach your weight loss goals in the long run. Finally, this blend of exercises can also help keep your body toned and healthy, making you look and feel great. So if weight loss is one of your goals, this is a great way to achieve them.
I hope this article has provided you with comprehensive information on cardio yoga: benefits, workouts, and more! Regular practice and dedication can help you reach your health and fitness goals. Give it a try today and see how it changes your life!
FAQs
Is cardio yoga a good workout?
Yes, it can be a great workout. Not only does it provide cardio benefits by getting your heart rate up, but it also incorporates strength training and flexibility. This makes cardio yoga a great way to get your entire body workout in one go. Additionally, it can help improve your balance, coordination, and concentration as well as improve your overall mental health. So if you’re looking for a low-impact workout that’s also great for strength, this mixture of exercises is an excellent choice.
How often should I do it?
It is recommended that you do cardio yoga at least three times a week. Doing it regularly will help you to get the most out of it, improving your cardio fitness, strength, and flexibility. Additionally, it is important to take breaks in between workouts and make sure to get enough rest.
Is it ok if I do cardio yoga every day?
It is generally not recommended to do cardio yoga every day as it can cause fatigue and injury. If you would like to do it every day, it is important to listen to your body and give yourself plenty of rest days. It’s also important to mix up the intensity; some cardio yoga days should be more intense with higher cardio and strength elements, while other days should focus on stretching, relaxation, and restorative poses.