Although it’d be easy to write off classes that combine yoga and free weights as just another clever fitness fad (cat yoga, anyone?), especially given the practice’s spiritual side, yoga sculpt classes have become fixtures on the wellness scene. Particularly in Los Angeles, where you’ll spy it at hot studios (CorePower, Hot 8) and non-sweaty ones (Red Diamond, Revolution Fitness)—and at established destinations (Earth’s Power Yoga, YAS) as well as newer arrivals (Aura, Evoke). It’s also happening across the country…
So what’s big draw of adding light weights to your flow?
Although sculpt classes are different studio to studio, they all blend traditional strength training moves with yoga postures—think bicep curls with your legs in crescent pose, or weighted squats in chair.
She says this kind of work is especially important for ultra-bendy yogis at risk for overstretching their muscles (yikes), a notion seconded by Chad Dennis, director of yoga at Wanderlust Hollywood.
“After they practice for a long time, lots of yoga students can fall into the realm of hyperflexible, and flexibility taken to an extreme can be unhealthy,” says Dennis. Wanderlust does not offer weighted yoga classes, but Dennis says he’s not opposed to them as long as they’re conducted safely and mindfully.
Of course, paying attention to correct form is crucial (something you should be used to in yoga class, anyway).
Regenscheid and Middleton agree: Instead of the number on the weight, you should pay more attention to the instructor’s alignment cues.
“There’s risk for injury any time we move our body,” says Regenscheid. “[Yoga sculpt] is a really nice way to balance out a yoga practice and maintain strong muscles and body awareness—both of which are really important at any point in your life.” Pass me a set of threes. —Erin Magner
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(Photos: CorePower)