Why aren't there more men in Yoga class?

For thousands of years yoga practice was for men only, women were excluded. Today, most classes are predominately women.

So why aren't there more men in yoga classes?

Most of the people that I talk to are at least a little interested in yoga or they would not have stopped me in the health club after class or come into Yoga Mart to ask questions. However, I do have lots of experience with the reluctant spouse/coworker/neighbor/sibling that was dragged into class by someone that loves their yoga practice and wants to share the experience. Some stick to it but many suffer through a class or two and never return. I will share what I have learned.

Why men don't want to practice yoga:

1. I am not flexible enough to do yoga.
2. I will look stupid (variation of #1).
3. Looks painful (variation of #1).
4. Why waste time on an activity that doesn't have a score and a winner.
5. Yoga isn't exercise.
6. Just not interested.
7. It is a girl thing.

But all of this is not too different from - Why women don't want to practice yoga:

1. I am not flexible enough to do yoga.
2. I will look stupid (variation of #1).
3. Looks painful (variation of #1).
4. I need to lose 15 lbs. before I try it.
5. Yoga isn't exercise.
6. Just not interested.

If you ask your spouse/coworker/neighbor/sibling why they do not practice yoga? There is yet another common answer - "I never considered it."

My comments:

1. That is like saying "I am too weak to lift weights" or "I cannot take French lessons because I do not speak French."
2. Everyone is too busy paying attention to their own practice and not looking at yours.
3. Sensation is part of life. or All change is painful. or Joint replacement surgery is more painful.
4. Yoga is not a competition, everything you do is for yourself.
5. Yoga is a life style of peace, self discovery and calmness. However muscles will develop, balance will improve, coordination will improve, sleep will improve, your life will improve.
6. Find something that does interest you that involves movement, walk, bike, dance, swim, etc.

Movement is the key to a healthy life.

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Thanks for subscribing to my Yoga Lowdown! I hope you will enjoy reading them as much as I love sharing them with you.

Marj Rash
Yoga Mart USA