The most common type of yoga, vinyasa is what you'll likely find at local gyms or studios. The style appeals to the masses, as it focuses on stability and flow rather than vigorous, difficult poses. A typical vinyasa sequence takes on the look and feel of a series of sun salutations, with other power poses mixed in.
Bikram yoga will always take place in a heated (anywhere from 90 to 100+ degrees F) room, and you will work up a sweat. The Bikram sequence is made up of 26 poses performed twice.
Sculpt yoga is less a type of yoga than a form. Some gyms and studios have introduced sculpt yoga to appeal to audiences and fitness enthusiasts that are focused on getting stronger. Cardio, strength-training and more hyper-focused core work complement a vinyasa-style flow.
Ashtanga is more challenging than your average vinyasa in that it is composed of six series of postures that increase in difficulty. Designed for the experienced yogi, ashtanga yoga requires you to move quickly through more advanced poses that cover both standing and seated work.
Similar to ashtanga in that it's physically demanding, power yoga's poses aren't as structured. Rather than having a set series of postures, individual power yoga instructors make up their own flow, setting a difficulty level that's comfortable for the room.
Restorative yoga is exactly what it sounds like: all about letting go. This practice will have you hold stretches for long periods of time, allowing your body to find relaxation. Restorative yoga also focuses largely on clearing your mind, and you'll use more props like straps, blocks and blankets to find easier poses while you loosen up.
Much like pilates, iyengar yoga is less about flow and more about form. During this practice, you'll work slowly and methodically to find the proper mechanics of each pose so that, eventually, you can sink deeper into each posture and achieve a deeper stretch.
This type of yoga emphasizes breath, meditation and mind/body connection. You'll complete repeated kriyas, exercises specific to kundalini, that are designed to synchronize your breath with your movements and expel tension from your core and spine.
Yin yoga is designed to increase flexibility and provide better circulation to your joints. Seated poses are held for minutes at a time and emphasizes meditation as well.
This class is all about the mommies-to-be. Suitable for women in all trimesters, it works your pelvic floor and focuses on breath and bonding with your bun in the oven. It's considered a viable option for preparing for labor and delivery.