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Yoga and weight loss

by Terry King

question
Is yoga an effective exercise for weight loss?

answer
Yoga isn't the best exercise as far as losing weight is concerned, unless you are seriously into Ashtanga or power yoga, but that shouldn't stop you from practicing it. Yoga is an excellent discipline, and regular practice helps maintain flexibility, improve coordination and eliminate stress.

For a great introduction to basic yoga postures, check out Keyboard yoga.

The best calorie-burning exercises are aerobic and require the large muscle groups—primarily in the legs—to work continuously for periods of half an hour or longer. Walking, running, cycling, rollerblading and swimming burn the most calories, provided that you do them often enough (three to five times per week) and long enough (30 to 60 minutes per session). You can also lose fat by weight training. This kind of workout will add lean muscle tissue to your frame, which helps you increase your resting metabolism and burn more total calories.

Following a diet based on yoga principles would help almost all of us lose weight. The yoga diet is vegetarian free of meat, fish and eggs. Fried and spicy foods and all caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, cocoa and fizzy drinks are also prohibited. Read become a healthy vegetarian for more advice.

If you reduce your calorie consumption and increase your daily activity, you are likely to lose weight. Just make sure you check with your doctor before drastically changing your diet or fitness plan.

Why not chat to other iVillagers about yoga on the Yoga & Pilates message board. Take a look at some of the LIVE discussions happening now on the board:

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