Amrita 6: Asana through the ages - Magazine - Page 27
The Yogi Resistance:
Strength Training & Yoga
What role does strength training play in yoga? CHARLOTTE COUSE
examines the relationship between strength and asana
KOLAR VENKATESH IYER (1897-1980) was a key figure in the
development of modern yoga. Under his influence, it became
known as less of an ancient esoteric practice and more of a
modern fitness system. He was a bodybuilder, corresponded
with Charles Atlas, and enjoyed showing off his naked, ripped
physique in the health magazines of the early 20th century.
His regime was a mix of bodybuilding techniques and hatha
yoga, but in his book Muscle Cult (1930) he says: “Hata-Yoga,
the ancient system of body-cult . . . had more to do in the
making of me what I am to-day than all the bells, bars, steelsprings and strands I have used” (Singleton, 2010).
For most people, an image of someone who embodies
physical strength is more likely to resemble a young Arnold
Schwarzenegger than a yogi. Yoga is more associated with
flexibility and relaxation. But can it give you strength as KV
Iyer implies?
www.yogaallianceprofessionals.org
AMRITA Issue 6 / Spring 2021 25
