Guest guest Report post Posted November 19, 1999 I'm skeptical of the aerobic benefit (I want to believe it!) still I appreciate all the input. I am following Beryl Bender's book and find it a wonderful resource. Are there any additional materials you recommend to append to her program?<br><br>My running and strength performance don't appear to be affected either. I can take a week off as long as I do my yoga every day. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted November 19, 1999 To become a believer in the aerobic benefits of Ashtanga, strap on a heart rate monitor during practice. Working the advanced class keeps the rate over 75%. Try to keep a big focus on mula bandha and even breathes. You should be able to regulate your heart rate. If it isn't up where you'd like to see it, try vinyasas between each side of a position. Take it up! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest Report post Posted November 19, 1999 I agree with you to a point, during some postures the heart rate certainly will go up, but not anywhere near where it would be with 12 x 800 meter track workouts. Beryl's point is that ujjayi breathing + uddiyana bandha will increase your lung volumes, and therefor increase your body's ability to efficiently consume oxygen (vo2). This in theory acheives the same thing as aerobic exercise, but in a very different way. I don't believe this is the whole answer, but it does make some sense. Whatever the reasons, it is clear to me that regular ashtanga practice significantly improves aerobic fitness.<br><br>Namaste,<br>michael Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
