Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Ashtanga: which yoga class is for you?

If you've ever stared at a Bali timetable wondering what separates "Vinyasa Krama" from "Slow Flow", you're not alone. Most styles come from the same roots, but the pace, the intensity and the feel of a class can be completely different.

Hatha

The broad, traditional foundation that most modern styles grew out of. Poses are held for a few breaths, with time to settle between them. Good for: beginners, anyone who wants to learn alignment, or a steady practice that isn't rushed.

Vinyasa (and Flow)

Poses link together with the breath into a continuous sequence, so it feels more like a moving meditation. Expect to sweat. "Slow Flow" and "Gentle Flow" keep the idea but drop the pace. Good for: people who like movement and variety, and runners or surfers who want strength and mobility.

Ashtanga

A set sequence of poses practised in the same order every time, breath-led and physically demanding. Some studios also offer "Mysore" or self-practice sessions, where you move through the sequence at your own pace with a teacher adjusting you. Good for: people who like structure and discipline, and seeing progress over months.

Yin

Slow and quiet. Mostly seated or lying poses held for several minutes, working into the deep connective tissue rather than the muscles. Often paired with sound or myofascial release. Good for: recovery days, stiff hips, a busy mind, and the evening.

Restorative and Yoga Nidra

Restorative uses props (bolsters, blankets) so the body can fully rest in each pose. Yoga Nidra is a guided deep relaxation, done lying down; you mostly just listen. Good for: stress, poor sleep, or simply needing to switch off.

Kundalini

Breathwork, repeated movements, mantra and meditation, often ending with a gong. It feels very different from a typical posture class. Good for: people curious about the energetic and meditative side of yoga.

Iyengar

Precise alignment, longer holds and plenty of props (blocks, straps, chairs). Teachers explain every detail. Good for: injuries, beginners who want to learn properly, and anyone who loves technique.

Aerial

Yoga with a fabric hammock hanging from the ceiling, used for support, stretching and inversions. Playful and surprisingly strength-building. Good for: trying something new, and gentle inversions.

How to choose

• Brand new? Look for Hatha, Gentle Flow or classes marked "beginner".
• Want a workout? Vinyasa, Power Flow or Ashtanga.
• Want to slow down? Yin, Restorative or Yoga Nidra.
• Recovering from an injury? Iyengar, or tell the teacher before class starts.

Whatever you choose, arrive a few minutes early and tell the teacher about any injuries. Every style can be adapted.

Ready to try one? Browse today's classes in Canggu, Ubud or Uluwatu, or see yoga across Bali.