Does Yoga Count as Exercise?

Yoga teacher Jenni Rawlings and Exercise Science professor Travis Pollen discuss whether yoga can be considered “exercise” – and why this is a much more complex and nuanced question than it might appear to be on the surface!

Points of discussion include:

• Is a yoga practice challenging enough to be considered “exercise” by exercise science definitions?
• What is the technical definition of “exercise”, and how is it different from “physical activity”?
• Can a yoga practice by itself give our body everything it needs to be healthy from a movement/exercise perspective?
• How a person can be considered both an “exerciser” and “sedentary” at the same time.
• What is body composition? Can a yoga practice affect body composition?
• Can a yoga practice improve muscular strength, and can it improve muscular endurance? (These are two different variables!)
• What is cardiorespiratory fitness, and how is it measured?
• Can a yoga practice improve cardiorespiratory fitness?
• Can a yoga practice improve other components of fitness such as balance, agility, speed, power, and coordination?
• What are the official guidelines for quantity and quality of exercise for healthy adults?
• Can a yoga practice on its own satisfy these guidelines?
• ...And much more!

Enjoy this engaging and eye-opening discussion for yoga, movement, and fitness geeks!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Jenni’s email newsletter

Strength for Yoga Remote Group Training – ongoing, interactive monthly strength program for yogis designed by Jenni & Travis

Online yoga class library & yoga anatomy workshops with Jenni

Strength for Yoga email newsletter

Podcast episode: Is Ashtanga a Cult? And the Value of Strength

Podcast episode: Stability: Clearing Up a Confusing Term!

To find out more about Travis Pollen: website / Instagram

Music used with generous permission from Dischord A Cappella.

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