When the word "yoga" comes up, many men immediately think, “That’s not for me.” Stereotypes, like yoga being too gentle, too zen, or only “for women,” still persist. But those who give it a go often find their assumptions turned on their heads and their lives transformed.
Take Keith, for example. After a year of attending my Men’s Only Yoga classes, he’s experienced significant improvements in mobility and reduced back pain. When I asked him about the impact, he said:
“I work in construction, so I have pains everywhere. Doing yoga every week has fixed that. I’ve just been away for three weeks, and my back has really missed the classes!”
Another regular, Matt, has been attending for three years. Yoga hasn’t just improved his flexibility, it’s enhanced his performance in sports like squash and football. When I spoke to him, he shared:
“Working from home, I was getting stiffness across my neck, upper back, and shoulders. Turning my head was difficult. But since joining the weekly yoga classes, I don’t ache as much when I wake up in the morning. I do a lot of sport outside of work too and am not the best at cooling down. Coming here has helped massively with maintaining that flexibility.”
Stories like these show that yoga is far more than just getting bendy – it’s a game-changer.
Why are men reluctant to try yoga?
“I’m a beginner and have no idea what I’m doing”
“Everyone will be looking at me”
“I’m not flexible enough to join”
“I don’t need to stretch”
“Yoga’s for girls”
Sound familiar? These are some of the most common excuses – and that’s just what they are: excuses. Steve, one of my regulars, says:
“When the word ‘yoga’ is mentioned to a bloke, it’s often met with, ‘That’s for girls.’ But after being convinced by a friend to just give it a try, I’ve never looked back.”
Every man who has joined my classes started as a beginner, and the progress I’ve seen – whether in mobility or mental clarity – is incredible.
The benefits of yoga
For many men, juggling work, family and life leaves little time for self-care. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, enduring the physical strain of a demanding job, or just need some time out, yoga offers a wealth of benefits:
Supports physical health by aiding in injury prevention and recovery
Improves focus through breathwork
Social connection with other yogis
Improves strength and mobility
Strengthens mental resilience
Calms the nervous system
Even professional athletes have joined the movement. England’s football and rugby teams have incorporated yoga into their training to support recovery and performance. It’s proof that yoga isn’t a “women’s thing” – it’s a universal tool for better physical and mental well-being.
Breathe With Ease Men’s Only Yoga
My Men’s Only Yoga classes focus on vinyasa, Hatha and yin yoga styles and are specifically designed for inflexible men of all ages and backgrounds.
Each week, the class has a different theme or focus, keeping the sessions engaging and varied. We delve into mindset, the philosophy of yoga, mental health, the power of breath, understanding anatomy and how to carry yoga into everyday life.
Whether you’re looking to ease back pain, improve your posture, or simply take a moment to yourself in a hectic week, yoga could be the missing piece of the puzzle. As Keith puts it:
“It’s great to have an hour off to turn off the phone, where nothing else matters but that moment.”
That sense of calm is priceless.
So, why not give it a go like these regulars?
I promise all classes are welcoming, supportive and 100% beginner-friendly. Your future self might just thank you for taking that first step onto the mat!
When? Weekly on Mondays 7:45 - 8:45pm
Where? The Sussex Shala
Beginners are 100% welcome.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch with me at hello@breathewitheaseyoga.co.uk
Nicole
P.S. Purchase my intro offer for new clients! Buy two class passes at a discounted rate of £15.
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