Yoga Sculpt: What Is It and Am I Ready?

Do you remember how you felt before taking your first Yoga Sculpt class? I do. I had been practicing for a few months. I had plenty of C1s and HPFs under my belt and I had even taken a few C2s. I thought that I might be ready to try a Yoga Sculpt class, but I heard that it was pretty intense and I started wondering if I was really ready for such an ambitious undertaking.

If this sounds familiar, you’re definitely not alone. Yoga Sculpt has a reputation for being a calorie-torching, high-intensity, high-energy workout — and it is! But how do you know if you’re ready to try a Yoga Sculpt class, and what are the benefits of adding this class to your yoga routine? Read on to find out.

What is Yoga Sculpt?

In a nutshell, Yoga Sculpt is a class that incorporates hand weights and high-intensity cardio bursts for a maximum calorie-burning effect. You’ll recognize all of the postures from our C1 and C2 classes. The hand weights add a new challenge to traditional yoga classes. Yoga Sculpt also incorporates cardio exercises to get your heart pumping and your blood flowing. And of course, there’s always a challenging core workout mixed in!

When should a new student try Yoga Sculpt?

This is a question that we receive frequently, and it’s a question that’s different for each student. Generally, we recommend taking at least three C2 classes. Yoga Sculpt is very similar to our C2 classes with the added challenge of incorporating hand weights into the postures. If you feel comfortable with the postures after taking a handful of C2s and you feel like you’re ready for an additional physical challenge, you’re probably ready to try a Yoga Sculpt class.

What should I expect during my first Yoga Sculpt class?

You should expect a challenging workout! Yoga Sculpt classes tend to be upbeat and super energetic. Classes are difficult, but not impossible. The feeling of accomplishment that you get after taking a Yoga Sculpt class is incredible. I think that this tweet sums it up nicely:

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Just like any other class at CorePower Yoga, you’re encouraged to take this class at your own pace and to take rests whenever needed. By the end of class, you’ll be exhausted and dripping in sweat — and you’ll love it!

How do I choose the right weights for class?

Use two sets of weights in class - a lighter and a heavier set. Remember, weights are always OPTIONAL in Yoga Sculpt. You’ll still get a great workout without the weights. If you do choose to use them, it’s important to warm up the body with the lighter set of weights, especially when flowing through the first Sun B sequence. When working the larger muscle groups, consider using heavier weights to build muscle. Try and challenge yourself and go to your edge, but never perform an exercise if it hurts or feels uncomfortable. Proper form and technique are crucial for building lean muscle; if you are using weights that are too heavy, you risk compromising your form and could injure yourself.

How should I prepare for a Yoga Sculpt class?

Drink lots of water before and after the workout. Hydrating is key to performing at optimal levels. Since the room is heated, you’ll be sweating more than you normally might lifting weights in a gym. If it’s your first time in Yoga Sculpt, take it slow to adapt to the heat. Bring extra water for class and an extra towel to wipe your brow and prevent slipping. After class, eat protein within 30 minutes after the workout. Think yogurt or a banana and peanut butter. Try and combine carbohydrates with the protein for the best results. Consuming protein and carbs after the workout will help with recovery and ensure proper synthesis of the nutrients. Your muscles will need the protein to help rebuild.

How often should I take Yoga Sculpt classes?

Yoga Sculpt is similar to weight training and should only be done 3-4 times a weekThe body needs time to recover, as you are breaking down the muscle to re-build it in a Yoga Sculpt class. A consistent Yoga Sculpt practice will be greatly complemented by other CorePower Yoga classes, such as a C2, Hot Power Fusion and/or CoreRestore class. By switching up your workout and including a range of cardio, weight lifting and stretching, you will avoid a plateau and never get bored!

Why should I add Yoga Sculpt to my yoga routine?

There are many benefits that Yoga Sculpt adds to your practice. You’ll be incorporating cardio exercises and high-intensity interval training to keep your heart healthy and to burn calories. With the addition of hand weights, you’ll also build lean muscle and you’ll challenge yourself in new ways.

If those aren’t reasons enough to consider trying a class, Yoga Sculpt is also fun! When you feel like your body is ready, give a class a try. You’ll be happy you did!