Get Inspired: How to get into yoga

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Media caption,

Young people get introduced to yoga at BBC Get Inspired Active Academy.

How do I start?

What is yoga?

An ancient form of exercise that develops strength, flexibility and stamina through a variety of stretches and postures.

There are different styles of yoga to try, with varying levels of difficulty but all involve holding poses, meditation and controlled breathing.

Is it for me?

Yoga is is perfect for those looking to increase their fitness, flexibility or just trying to relax and once you know a few poses you can practice anywhere.

What to expect when I start?

  • Yoga has many mental health benefits, providing an opportunity to relax, reflect and escape.

  • Holding poses helps improve balance and coordination.

  • Pregnancy yoga helps reduce aches and pains and improve your quality of sleep and postnatal yoga is a great way to ease your way back into exercise after the birth of your baby.

  • Chair yoga is ideal for people with reduced mobility who want to increase their flexibility and movement without getting on the floor. The British Wheel of Yoga will help you find a chair yoga class near you.

  • Bikram yoga is performed in 40-degree heat so it stretches and strengthens the muscles whilst detoxing the body through extensive sweating.

To get you in the mood...

Media caption,

Nanammal talked to the BBC in 2017

Are you inspired to try yoga? Or maybe you are a keen enthusiast already? Get in touch and tell us your experience of the activity by tweeting us on @bbcgetinspired,, external visiting us on Facebook, external or emailing us at getinspired@bbc.co.uk., external

All clubs need a chair, secretary and treasurer to help things run smoothly as well as officials, coaches and judges. Whatever role you're interested in, Join In, external has opportunities to volunteer in your area.

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