Stretch Your Body and Strengthen Your Heart

Yoga can improve your heart health. A new research study published in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology shows that yoga reduces the risk of many common factors that lead to metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Risk factors include high cholesterol, obesity, and hypertension. Two randomized control trials found that yoga can work better than drugs in improving body weight, blood pressure, heart rate, and body mass index.

Yoga and traditional aerobics equally reduce the common risk factors. Yoga is different from traditional aerobics in that it lowers blood pressure, is relaxing, and is less stressful on the body. It is based on more fluid motions, breathing, and stretching rather than other prominent exercises like running. Since it is easier are on the body, it is more acceptable for a wider range of people.

Get started distressing your way to a healthy heart with one of our weekly yoga classes. University Recreation hosts various group fitness yoga classes Monday through Friday. There are many classes held each day, so it is easy to find one that fits your schedule. Pre-registration is available on the Group Fitness page.