Gyms are bustling with activity as students are looking to stay in shape this fall. Among the normal routines, many students are finding fulfillment through a more non-traditional workout known as yoga.
Most gyms now offer yoga as part of their regular class schedule. Many doctors, physical therapists and chiropractic offices are now incorporating yoga into their patients' recovery routines.
Yoga studios are dotting the nation and more continue to open all the time.
Amy Williams, owner of It's Yoga studio, located in Provo at The Shops at the Riverwoods, said yoga is growing in popularity because it works.
"Students are busy," Williams said. "What else can you do for an hour that is fun, gives you a great workout, allows you to mediate and think, and leaves you feeling rejuvenated?"
People are constantly coming and going and are always busy, Williams said. Yoga allows time for people to slow down, breath and think.
Individuals are drawn to the quiet yoga studios because they become rejuvenated and are able to let go of the world outside and leave feeling happier and healthier, she said.
"It's becoming popular because people are craving more than the gym atmosphere," Williams said. "People want to get more out of their workout because time is so valuable."
BYU students know as well as anyone the value of time and the importance of staying fit. Staci Avarell, a senior from Texas, began practicing yoga at a gym when she was 19 years old. Avarell decided to try yoga because she had always been a flexible person but didn't know much about it so she was curious.
"I left with a good workout, peace and no stress," Avarell said of her first experience with yoga.
Avarell said the benefits of practicing yoga are tremendous. She loves the workout and the fact that yoga helps prevent injury and illness.
Avarell said she appreciates the peace of mind and time for meditation and thoughts that yoga gives her during each busy semester.
While yoga may be a predominantly women's activity, it is becoming more popular with guys.
Jeff Tucker, a sophomore from Orem, said it's definitely not a bad thing being one of the only guys. Tucker said he enjoys yoga because it keeps him limber and is different from any other workout he's done.
"I've ran, lifted and kept myself in shape my whole life," he said. "But yoga allows me to stretch and work all my muscles, which carries over into all other sports and activities. Plus it's fun and different."
Tucker said one of the best parts about yoga is the fact that it's so personal. After four knee surgeries, Tucker said yoga is great for him because it not only keeps him limber and helps break down scar tissue, but more importantly yoga allows him to know his own limits and to push himself as far as his body will allow.
"I'm a beginner," Tucker said. "I've been doing this for six months, but the great thing is I'm never behind because it's such an individual thing."
Williams said yoga truly is for everyone and that's just what draws people to her studio. From 86-year-old women to BYU football players, Williams has taught all age groups. Every person is able to take something they like from the practice, she said.
Williams said adults don't have enough fun and yoga is a great and healthy way for adults to do something fun and different.
"No other exercise is for everyone," Williams said. "The focus is on self; you are able to find what you need for your body."
Utah County is the perfect place to get into yoga. Many studios in California charge as much as $40 per class and even Salt Lake County prices run around $20 per class. In Utah County, however, major gyms like 24 Hour Fitness and Gold's Gym offer yoga classes as part of the regular monthly membership fees. It's Yoga studio charges $10 per class and offers many membership options to students.
Places That Offer Yoga Classes
Gold's Gym: 1259 S. 800 E. Orem, UT 801-399-5861
460 N. 900 E. Provo, UT 801-377-2666
24 Hour Fitness: 2121 N. 550 W. Provo, UT 801-224-2096
It's Yoga Studio: 4801 N. University Avenue (Shops at the Riverwoods) 801-426-9644. Sep. 15 Student special: $39.95 for 9 months unlimited.
Copyright Brigham Young University 24 Sep 2007
