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Women's Health
The Sport: Yoga, The Guy: Baron Baptiste
Baron Baptiste
Fall 2004
Baptiste, who's worked with such Hollywood stars as Helen Hunt and Elisabeth Shue, has yoga in his blood. He is the son of yoga teachers and has been studying the practice since he was 12. Here's his wisdom on how to get a better workout in fewer minutes:
Baron's Bylaws
Work your muscles harder...
by being honest. Too many people cheat when they're counting, he says. "Hold a posture for 20 seconds20 actual seconds. Don't start counting by 2s when you hit 14," he says. You'll force your muscles to work harder, and you'll have to concentrate on the movements.
Save time...
by doing one workout per week that focuses only on hips. Not only does a shorter workout mean more intensity, but your hips need the special attention. "Hips are the mother of all movement," says Baptiste, who notes that they have an impact on your lower back, legs, and ankles. Pick three to five hip-focused postures and hold each for 15-breaths, finishing each with a twist.
One example is the twisting triangle: Stand with your legs 3 feet apart lengthwise, your hips square and your right foot in front. Bend forward, bring your left hand to your right foot and your right arm to the ceiling, pressing your hips backwards and chest forward. With your spine extended, twist your upper body as much as you can.
Advance to a higher level
by picking one posture that's beyond your level and mixing it into your regular routine. You have a foundation and confidence to work from, but you also have the license to make mistakes. "The fundamental sequence serves as a launchpad and allows you to step out of your comfort zone," Baptiste says.
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