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4 Signs You Need Yoga Sculpt
Yoga sculpt is a genre of fitness classes inspired by the flow of vinyasa yoga with the addition of dumbbells. You get all the benefits of vinyasa yoga with the added benefit of strength training. But how do you know if you need to add yoga sculpt to your weekly exercise routine?
FlowLIFT is our spin on yoga sculpt. We use dumbbells and added ankle weights to up the ante on the strength training aspect. It’s a completely original workout class that you’ve never experienced before. It gives you everything you need in one shot.
There are so many different workouts to choose from these days, and not all fitness classes are created equal. We are busy and need to use our time wisely. If you can relate to at least one of the 4 signs below, it’s time for you to give FlowLIFT a try.
4 Signs You Need Yoga Sculpt
I Don’t Like Yoga, Why Would I Like Yoga Sculpt
When we first started FlowLIFT, we called it YogaLIFT. But quickly we changed the name because guess what, this class is NOT yoga. One of the defining characteristics of a yoga class is the ability to control the breath throughout the session. If you get out of breath, this is a sign that you need to slow down. Long inhales and exhales through the nose should always be maintained.
FlowLIFT is an intense cardio workout. After the first five minutes there is zero chance that you’ll be able to breathe in a slow and calm manner. It would also be incredibly difficult to breathe exclusively through the nose. FlowLIFT is not a yoga class.
The reason it falls into the yoga sculpt category is because the sequencing flows like a yoga class. You never stop moving for the entire class and one move flows seamlessly into the next. This smooth flow feels amazing and makes a very challenging class more enjoyable.
Another reason that FlowLIFT is not like yoga is that you do reps. You flow through every move 10-15 times. This repetition with ankle weights and often times dumbbells makes this a very effective strength training class. Build long lean muscles like Jane Fonda in the 80’s or picture a dancer body. Increase muscle endurance without getting bulky.
So if you’re not a big fan of yoga, don’t worry. FlowLIFT is not yoga, it’s a superior workout class with a long list of amazing benefits.
I Love Yoga But It’s Not Enough of a Workout
Carolina and I created FlowLIFT out of our love of yoga. We like the format of vinyasa and understand how important it is to do movement that is even on both sides of the body, increases joint mobility and creates space in the spine. Many workouts do the opposite.
We have both been vinyasa yoga teachers since 2001, so we have a lot of experience in our field. In particular, we are both very good at sequencing. So if you love the flow of vinyasa but wish it covered more bases in the workout department, then FlowLIFT is your answer. Check all your boxes with this one class: functional fitness, cardio and strength training.
The only thing missing from FlowLIFT is true stretching. Our yoga sculpt class will improve joint mobility, lengthen the spine and build balanced strength but it doesn’t stretch you out like a yoga class. But we’ve got you covered there as well with our sister site, yourBuddhi.
I Want to Do Strength Training, But Not at the Gym
The benefits of strength training are many, especially as you get older. Our desire for a more intense workout arose as we approached 40. We have to work harder to maintain the fitness level that we want. Adding weights to our workout routine was definitely a must.
But we hear you – we don’t want to go to the gym either. Lifting weights can be incredibly boring. Simple, repetitive movements that isolate muscle groups is a total snoozefest. We just aren’t into it. Enter FlowLIFT!
FlowLIFT uses ankle weights throughout the entire class so you always have extra resistance in the lower body. This challenges not just the legs but builds strength in the hips, core and lower back as well.
About 75% of the moves utilize dumbbells. There are also numerous moves that include different variations of plank where you’re using your own body weight for resistance. Want another big bonus? FlowLIFT is a full body workout every time. There are no leg days or arm days. You’re working everything, every time.
FlowLIFT is high reps with low weight. This tones the body and builds muscle endurance. Many say that the only way to build muscle mass is by lifting heavy weights with low reps. However, with the high reps low weight model, you can increase muscle size if you work the muscle out to the point of fatigue. You will achieve this in FlowLIFT.
From one move to the next you’ll be working the same area – especially the glutes. Sometimes you’ll feel like you can’t do another rep, and that’s what you want to feel. That total burnout will help to build the muscle up a bit without getting bulky. You will love the way this looks and enjoy the strength, coordination and agility that comes with this style of workout.
I’m Bored With My Current Routine, I Need to Shake it Up
Our favorite part of FlowLIFT is that it’s FUN. We want to have a good time when we workout. Whether you’re in the studio with us or joining us from home, FlowLIFT feels like a party. Life is hectic and we’re all juggling more than we can handle. FlowLIFT is a part of your day to look forward to.
Part of the fun is working as hard as you can. After the warm up, you’ll start to break a sweat. Once you hit the floor moves, you’re off to the races. While some of the moves can be difficult and a little confusing, just keep on going and don’t worry about doing everything perfectly. This not a time to be hard on ourselves – we already do enough of that! Just keep on flowing through the class and have a good time.
If the regular FlowLIFT class is a little too much for you at first, try our LiteLIFT and XpressLITE classes. These still pack the same yoga sculpt punch, but you can get a little more familiar with this new style of movement. Once you feel ready, you can move on to the FlowLIFT and XpressLIFT classes.
Dig deep and go for it! Your body and mind will thank you for it. Enjoy the endorphin rush and our fun playlists while you give it your all. We’re here for you! Please email us with any questions you have about the workout. We will get right back to you.
Try FlowLIFT at Home
You’ve really got nothing to lose! Sign up now to try FlowLIFT. Your first two weeks are free and then it’s just $18/month after that. And if you’re ever in La Jolla, stop by Buddhi Yoga to take a class with us in person!