Knowing your instructor is just as important as selecting the right fitness routine. That’s why we interviewed Abdou Sangare, power yoga instructor at the YMCA of Greater Toronto, to learn more about his connection with and opinion of power yoga.
Y. Hi Abdou, thanks for taking the time to chat! How did you get involved with the Y?
A: After getting my Yoga Teaching Certificate at the Yoga Sanctuary, I really wanted to give back to the community and I couldn't find a better suited place than the Y! In the beginning, I was a Y volunteer, but I eventually became a staff member.
Y. Awesome! Tell us more about your background in yoga.
A: I was introduced to yoga in 1994 and I’ve been practicing it ever since. I began teaching hatha yoga and power yoga in 2007. I got really hooked on power yoga because it is a complete mind and body workout that tremendously increases concentration and reduces stress.
Y. That’s great! How would you define power yoga?
A: Power yoga comes from the classical and original ashtanga vinyasa tradition. It is a unique combination of dynamic breathing with strong, flowing postures, creating a high heat and energy-packed workout.
Y. How has power yoga changed your lifestyle?
A: Power yoga has made me more aware of my diet. Now I’m more selective about my food choices, which, in return, has helped me stick to my power yoga program.
Y. What keeps you coming back to the Y?
A: I keep coming back to the Y to meet new people and work out with the wonderful friends I have made over the years. In addition, doing power yoga with others allows me to continue to grow and learn.
Y. What days/times are your classes?
A: Currently, I have three classes per week at the Toronto Central Grosvenor St. YMCA Centre:
Y. How do you keep your students motivated to stick to their fitness routines?
A: I encourage everyone to work at their own pace. There’s no competition or comparison in yoga. Everybody is unique!
Y. Any tips for people taking your classes?
A: When taking any yoga classes, listen to your body. Adjust the postures to your own level and take breaks if needed.
Y. What advice would you give to yoga beginners?
A: If you are new to yoga, just come and do what you can. If you stick to yoga, you will develop a strong, flexible and stress-free body, mind and soul!
Y: Great, thanks Abdou!
A: No problem!
Check your local Y's group fitness class schedule to discover your next opportunity to give yoga a try.
Y. Hi Abdou, thanks for taking the time to chat! How did you get involved with the Y?
A: After getting my Yoga Teaching Certificate at the Yoga Sanctuary, I really wanted to give back to the community and I couldn't find a better suited place than the Y! In the beginning, I was a Y volunteer, but I eventually became a staff member.
Y. Awesome! Tell us more about your background in yoga.
A: I was introduced to yoga in 1994 and I’ve been practicing it ever since. I began teaching hatha yoga and power yoga in 2007. I got really hooked on power yoga because it is a complete mind and body workout that tremendously increases concentration and reduces stress.
Y. That’s great! How would you define power yoga?
A: Power yoga comes from the classical and original ashtanga vinyasa tradition. It is a unique combination of dynamic breathing with strong, flowing postures, creating a high heat and energy-packed workout.
Y. How has power yoga changed your lifestyle?
A: Power yoga has made me more aware of my diet. Now I’m more selective about my food choices, which, in return, has helped me stick to my power yoga program.
Y. What keeps you coming back to the Y?
A: I keep coming back to the Y to meet new people and work out with the wonderful friends I have made over the years. In addition, doing power yoga with others allows me to continue to grow and learn.
Y. What days/times are your classes?
A: Currently, I have three classes per week at the Toronto Central Grosvenor St. YMCA Centre:
- Thursdays (7:30-8 p.m.)
- Fridays (9:30-10:30 a.m.)
- Sundays (9:30-10:30 a.m.)
Y. How do you keep your students motivated to stick to their fitness routines?
A: I encourage everyone to work at their own pace. There’s no competition or comparison in yoga. Everybody is unique!
Y. Any tips for people taking your classes?
A: When taking any yoga classes, listen to your body. Adjust the postures to your own level and take breaks if needed.
Y. What advice would you give to yoga beginners?
A: If you are new to yoga, just come and do what you can. If you stick to yoga, you will develop a strong, flexible and stress-free body, mind and soul!
Y: Great, thanks Abdou!
A: No problem!
Check your local Y's group fitness class schedule to discover your next opportunity to give yoga a try.
