Is your idea of a “real” yoga class one that’s drenched in Sanskrit, filled with meditation, and devoid of weights? Or are you open to a new wave of yoga that embraces cardio, strength training, and a killer playlist?
In a world where traditional meets modern, Yoga Sculpt classes are challenging the status quo. Are they a背离, or are they the evolution of yoga that today’s practitioners have been waiting for? We asked four yoga teachers to weigh in on whether Yoga Sculpt counts as “real” yoga.
Jessica Feldman, instructor at Life Time, sees it as a bridge to a wider audience. “We have numerous yoga elements, including breathwork, grounding, sun salutations, and ending with savasana,” she says. “We also integrate weights and jumping jacks. All of that can combine to help expand someone’s comfort zone.”
But does this fusion come at the cost of authenticity? Kate Lombardo of YogaRenew believes there’s a middle ground. “It’s important to honor the roots of yoga, but not to be so inflexible about how it’s defined,” she says.
So, what do the numbers say? A survey by BetterMe found that 42 percent of respondents find new workouts the biggest factor in staying motivated. Could Yoga Sculpt be the key to keeping yoga fresh and exciting?
Karen Verechia, who integrated TRX into her yoga flows, sees it as an opportunity to build physical awareness in new ways. “Adapting that into other fitness settings gives you the best of yoga while expanding your movement options,” she says.
But is it still yoga if it doesn’t look like what you’ve come to expect? The answer might surprise you. Yoga is personal—it’s about your journey, not how closely you adhere to someone else’s definition of the practice.
Are you ready to redefine what “real” yoga means to you?
Whether you’re a traditionalist or a trendsetter, the world of yoga has something for everyone. Discover the path that’s right for you and expand your practice in ways you never thought possible. Your journey to a more vibrant you starts here.
