Men in Yoga at Hillsboro’s Best Gym

Is yoga more appealing to, or better for, a specific gender? It shouldn’t be! Every person needs a physical foundation of strength and flexibility, as well as the mental benefits a yoga practice can bring. Hawthorn Farm Athletic Club (HFAC) specializes in creating a culture of belonging that welcomes everyone into our group exercise classes. In honor of Father’s Day this month, we want to make a point of welcoming MEN into YOGA!

HFAC’s yoga classes and yoga instructors are among our most popular group exercise options. Classes host a wide range of students of all ages and ability level; everyone from devoted yoga practitioners to new explorers and athletes looking to prevent injury or up performance.

If you look back at the history of Yoga, men have deep roots within its practices. We asked HFAC’s deeply experienced yoga instructors Iris Mason, Chris Schaus, and Kari Parkinson, what they would say to men considering trying yoga.

First, what would you say is the percentage of males to females in your yoga class? 

Iris: It ranges, but I would say 33-50% of class attendees are male.

Chris: My experience is that about 15-20% of those in my yoga classes are male.

Kari: There are 10-20% men in my class.

What would you say to men thinking about trying yoga?  

Iris: I really emphasize how much yoga can help with stress reduction and increase flexibility. You do not need to be flexible to do yoga. In fact, it is almost better to start yoga not being flexible because you can see the improvements as time goes on. I suggest men add at least one yoga class to their weekly schedule, especially because it can improve cardio and weight-lifting programs. 

Chris: What I say depends on the individual. The conversation would begin by asking what they think they need from yoga, and then talk about how yoga might address those needs – flexibility, strength, aches and pains, disabilities, weight, etc. The best invitation is personal and directed at addressing the individual’s perceived needs. I might direct them to a different teacher’s class if my class is not appropriate for their needs. 

I generally acknowledge that Yoga can be intimidating for most men because 1) men generally are less flexible than women, and 2) the class will likely have some long-time practitioners. So, the first thing is to acknowledge the ego and get over it. A lot of people in the class are not flexible.

I also like to offer my personal experience as a testament to the power of yoga practice. After two major spinal surgeries 20 years apart, permanent nerve root damage and muscular atrophy; the ruptured discs have completely recovered, and my spinal flexibility is better than ever at over 60 years of age. My body is a living testament to the power of yoga. 

Kari: I would say the same thing to anyone, that regular yoga creates the necessary balance to a weekly workout by improving range of motion, flexibility, attention to breath and pause to be present. With men in particular, there is more often the misconception to push through and build or burn to keep your body fit, but everyone needs to balance that with pause and space. Your body will love you for much longer with regular yoga practice.

Are you thinking about trying to improve your flexibility and overall health? At HFAC, we offer weekly yoga classes for our members to get you on a routine to mobility and fitness. Check out our membership overview for details. We offer monthly joining promos that can accommodate most anyone looking to join our Hawthorn Farm Athletic Club Community. Book a two day trial pass and get a tour of our spacious facility!