Start Your Fitness Journey with Yoga: How Flexibility Shouldn't Hold You Back
Start Your Fitness Journey with Yoga: How Flexibility Shouldn't Hold You Back
Certified trainer Brynn Ackerman explains why yoga is for everyone and how simple daily movement habits can help build flexibility, confidence, and a healthier lifestyle.
As an instructor, I am constantly encouraging those in my life to attend classes. Whether it be to friends, family, or those in my community, the first thing out of everyone’s mouth as I encourage them to take a class is: “Oh but I am not that flexible.”
And here’s the truth: that is like saying you are too dirty to take a shower. The reason being that yoga, pilates, and strength training are all arguably the BEST forms of movement for the majority of those looking to embark on their movement, fitness, and overall wellness journey. If you have no clue where to start, it’s with group fitness.
In this week’s article, I am going to share why flexibility and fear are the least of your concerns when it comes to joining in on group fitness, and little ways you can implement healthy habits in your day to get started. Hopefully after reading this, you will feel confident and empowered to check out a class near you.
But first, what is the definition of yoga? By definition, yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that includes breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily postures that are widely practiced for health and relaxation.
Now, how would I define yoga? I would define yoga as a physical and mental movement that requires no skill, other than a mind that is ready to practice the present moment. Yoga is a stretch for your mind and body; it is the practice of being present and only concerned with yourself.
It is the whole reason I fell in love with the practice immediately after taking my first class. Reflecting back, I know for fact I lacked flexibility, stability, and strength. But all that did not matter, because my mind was ready for each micro movement at that moment. After dedicating almost 6 months of daily practice to hot yoga in Sweden, I was able to experience the results of simply showing up, taking the instruction to the best of my ability, and focusing on improving 1% each and every time.
Not Flexible? No Problem! Let’s say you can’t touch your toes. But let’s also say your goal is to be able to touch your toes… How do you expect to ever be able to reach those little piggies if you don’t try? The point of yoga is just trying to the best of your ability, and then showing up again and again and again. It is a continuous stretch and pull of the body in opposite directions. It is a natural movement that is meant to feel good and empowering.
THE PURPOSE OF YOGA
The primary purpose of yoga is to improve flexibility and mobility over time. It does not matter if you shake, are unable to fully do the posture, or are dripping sweat. The purpose is to practice being present and listening to your mind and body. Even though it improves things like flexibility, mobility, and strength overtime, it also inevitably improves your mindset, outlook, and perspectives.
Key Takeaways: My point here is, don’t limit yourself. You are always going to be your worst critic. Don’t put yourself in a box or believe you can never be the “dream” version of yourself. The reason you have those “dreams” or goals is because you already are that person - you just have to show up. In all seriousness, I hope this makes you want to give a class a try. Whether it be for the mind or the body or both - because one day you show up to a class and the little thing like being able to touch your toes, will be the catalyst for many other positive changes in your world that are to come.
Here are four ways to implement movement in your day:
Morning stretch
Deep breath work
10-minute meditation
Nightly stretch
I will get specific in another article, but for now, feel free to do your own research on these micro habits you can practice that take less than 10 minutes.
If you are in Olean or Ellicottville, come try a class with Preston Personal Training! With multiple classes on our schedule weekly, there is something for everyone to get in on the group fitness movement that builds a strong sense of community and change. I sincerely hope whoever is reading this knows they are more than welcomed and encouraged to join!
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Brynn Ackerman is a certified group fitness instructor and Preston Personal Trainer at Preston Personal Training located in both Olean and Ellicottville, NY. Brynn’s passion for health and wellness took her to Sweden where she studied one of the healthiest counties in the world to bring their lifestyle back home. For more information about her, visit her instagram (@buildwithbrynn) or search her on Facebook.