Yoga, once primarily associated with women, has now become a popular form of exercise for people of all genders and ages. It’s not just about flexibility and relaxation anymore; it’s about holistic wellness, including physical fitness. In fact, in various countries, yoga has gained popularity among men as well. This is where “Broga” comes into play.
What is Broga?
Broga is a fusion of yoga and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), designed primarily for men but suitable for all age groups. It’s a newer form of yoga that challenges the body and can effectively burn calories. With Broga, you can burn up to 500 calories in just a few minutes, equivalent to approximately an hour of running, with relatively low risk of injury.
Broga’s Popularity Overseas
According to the 2016 Yoga in America report by Yoga Alliance and Yoga Journal, there has been a significant increase in the number of American men practicing yoga, with more than a 50% rise in the past six years. This trend has led to an increase in yoga-related businesses and the establishment of classes specifically tailored for men, including Broga classes. Even former American football players and professional athletes have embraced Broga.
How to Burn Calories with Broga?
Broga programs are designed to incorporate various movements and muscle stretches similar to traditional yoga. Here’s a breakdown of a typical Broga session:
Start with relaxation and breathing exercises, emphasizing the importance of proper breathing for effective calorie burning.
Move on to basic strength training yoga poses, focusing on muscle building and flexibility, particularly targeting areas like the hamstrings, with poses like Downward-Facing Dog and Squats.
Incorporate HIIT-style exercises, such as Burpees and Mountain Climbers, into the routine. These exercises involve intense bursts of activity followed by short rest periods, effectively increasing calorie burn.
End the session with yoga poses aimed at lowering heart rate and promoting relaxation, such as Tree Pose or Warrior Pose.
Benefits of Broga
Saves time, making it suitable for busy individuals.
Effective calorie burning, with potential to burn up to 500 calories per session.
Strengthens the heart muscles.
Improves flexibility and muscle strength.
Reduces the risk of injury compared to other forms of exercise.
Promotes overall physical and mental well-being, including stress reduction and improved breathing.
Requires minimal equipment, usually just a yoga mat.
By embracing Broga, men can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of yoga while engaging in a challenging and effective workout routine. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, Broga offers a holistic approach to fitness that’s gaining popularity worldwide.
