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Original poster

Want to do yoga but I'm not bendy enough

34 replies

FairyAtTheBottomOfTheGarden · 15/07/2021 13:26

I'm 50, not overweight and do plenty of running / walking but would love to do a nice yoga flow, it looks so good for you physically and mentally.

Even the beginner you tube videos I've found aren't any good though. They all seem to think that it's 'simple' to go from downward dog and 'simply' step one foot forward between your hands - I just can't!

So does anyone know of any yoga workouts for real beginners who want to slowly improve flexibility and wellness? Thanks!

OP posts:
Orf1abc · 15/07/2021 13:48

Three bits of advice - try Yoga with Adriene, adjust when you need to, and learn to laugh at yourself.

Original poster
FairyAtTheBottomOfTheGarden · 15/07/2021 13:48

Thanks for all your replies, but I don't want to do classes as I need to be flexible on the times of day.

At least I know I might get it right one day if I practice enough!

OP posts:
BIWI · 15/07/2021 13:46

Presumably, though, as you do more, you'll become more flexible?

helpfulperson · 15/07/2021 13:45

I know you're not overweight but try looking up 'yoga for bigger bodies' on YouTube. She is great and it is designed for those who lack flexibility

Niconacotaco · 15/07/2021 13:39

I find the videos difficult because you can’t see the screen while in the postures and even the beginner ones assume some sort of basic knowledge or go too quickly.
In a class you can copy the person next to you if you can’t see the teacher plus the teacher will give you advice if you aren’t in the correct position.
And it is all a work in progress - some moves I can “step my foot forward” easily enough, in others it is still an awkward shuffle.

Tuesdayisland · 15/07/2021 13:37

Yes, see if you can find some in person classes (and try a few teachers if the first one doesn't feel right). I've practiced yoga for years and still can't get my heels on the floor in down dog, a good teacher will be able to help you understand what works for your body and how to progress without injuring yourself.

Saladdressingwithmustard · 15/07/2021 13:34

Yoga teacher here. 🕉️😊 It's more about building mobility and strength than being bendy when you start. And about not judging yourself in comparison with others!

Try local classes or at least live online yoga with a teacher you click with - there are lots of different types and styles so you may need to try a few.

Take a look at their information online (website, FB page etc) to try to find one you like the look of.

4PawsGood · 15/07/2021 13:28

I would wonder if you could get into the poses given more time, or just go as far as you can with them. So with the example you use, you don’t need to get there in one step, you can have a bit of a shuffle to get there. Pause the video while you get there if you need.

Lilao · 15/07/2021 13:28

I would recommend trying a face to face community style class in a local hall or something?

I used to attend one like this and there were people of all abilities, and the instructor could suggest amendments suitable for your specific needs.

E.g I have a knee injury so they gave me modified positions to try to keep my weight off of my knee.