The first thing I noticed when I walked into my first Broga (Bro-Yoga) class wasn’t a keg, or a bunch of frat guys; it was cool music, a studio full of guys and the two girls among a sea of dudes, all ready to get their yoga-on.
We start the class with some introductions and breathing exercises - all very standard. And even though I was totally hoping everyone would receive a fist-bump from the instructor, it never happened.
Within minutes, we're fully into the practice, which most closely resembles a Vinyasa flow, and we are doing push-ups and squats, surprisingly blended into the sequence of postures. Terms like ‘reverse-goddess’ are replaced by ‘reverse-
warrior’. And while it appears most of the men in the class are able to keep up with the class, advanced postures are left out altogether.
It was comparable to an introductory yoga class with
functional fitness exercises blended in. That being said, due to the quick pace, and core strengthening focus, it stayed true to its description, and offered a “strong, energetic, and challenging workout”. And I never felt uncomfortable not being able to touch my toes.
Afterward, I chatted with the founder, Robert Sidoti, to find out what inspired him to start this movement. Broga, only in its first few years, has already expanded to over 18 states in the US, with new yoga studios and gyms adding the class to their schedules every month. “If I’m able to inspire more guys to practice yoga, then I’ll have accomplished what I set out to do.” This isn’t a guys vs. girls thing – it’s about creating a space that’s inviting for guys who are unfamiliar with yoga, the language and poses.”
So, if you know already know the difference between an utkatasana and a malasana, you may want to skip it. But for those who are newer to the practice, whether male or female, Broga offers a
great sweat for those looking to try yoga, without getting lost in the details.
