Types of Yoga Explained: How to Find the Right Yoga Practice for You in 2026

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

It’s the new year — time for new workout resolutions. And maybe it’s time to give yoga (or another type of yoga) a fresh look.

While many people enjoy yoga, I’ve met plenty who tell me, “Yoga just isn’t for me.” I usually nod and agree — but honestly, I don’t. Yoga is for everyone. Finding the right type of yoga (and the right teacher) is often the real challenge.

Historically, there are 8 “limbs” (forms) of yoga and only one is a physical type of yoga; couched under the term Asana, meaning seat.  The other 7 limbs deal with becoming a more consciously better form of you as a person.  I’ll not list them here, but if you’d like to know more, this is a nice article.

Types of Yoga:

As most are looking for a physical type of yoga, I’ll list and give a brief description.  But the bottom line is, if you want to feel like you’ve run a marathon, there’s a yoga for you (Ashtanga) and if you want to feel like you’ve taken a nice nap, there’s a yoga for you (Restorative).  And of course, there’s everything in between.

Hatha Yoga: 

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

An umbrella term for any physical type of yoga.  Typically used to teach a foundational level class or basic stretching.  Do a pose or position on one side; do it on the other. Great for beginners or people who are looking for less vigorous movement.

Iyengar Yoga:

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

A focus on very specific form for each pose with longer holds in each pose.  Props are used to help get you into & help maintain alignment. A great foundational type of yoga to get an understanding of what each pose is and how to perform.  And though I say "foundational" above, people spend years perfecting each pose in Iyengar yoga. This is a non-vinyasa style class.  If you like precise technicality, this is a great class for you.

Vinyasa Yoga: 

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

A flow class, using your breath to lead you from posture to posture.  It’s typically more physical and can range in physicality from gentle to very strenuous.  You’re typically spending a max of only a few breaths per pose.  It’s a dealer’s choice class and anything goes.  But even in its gentle form, there is a lot of movement.  So, if you’re looking for more of a stretch class, this will not be for you.  If you like to move and enjoy variety and unpredictability, this might be what you’re looking for. Depending on the level listed, it's suitable from beginner to advanced.

Power yoga is another form of vinyasa yoga.  There are many terms that encompass vinyasa or flow.

Ashtanga Yoga: 

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

Another form of vinyasa.  A set series of postures completed in a specific way for 90 minutes.  There are 6 different series in Ashtanga yoga; however, most people don’t move past the second series.  Primary series is where you start and is a great challenge when completed fully.  Ashtanga is about discipline and is typically completed in a “Mysore” fashion.  Mysore classes are blocked off periods of time where anyone can enter during that time and move through their practice at their own pace.  A teacher is there to walk around and assist; however, they are not calling out postures.  “Led” classes are also offered for those who are new to the practice.  If you like to work and you like to sweat and you like knowing exactly what you’re getting each and every time, this type of yoga might be a great fit for you.  There is no music and typically no mirrors in these classes. 

Though I'm sure there are beginner Ashtanga classes, I cannot imagine walking into an Ashtanga practice without any yoga foundation. Before embarking on an Ashtanga journey, it would be wise to have the basics down.

Bikram Yoga:

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

It’s another series of 26 poses completed in a specific (non-vinyasa) way.  The difference is that the room in which you’re practicing is heated to 105 deg, simulating the conditions in India.  There are bright lights, mirrors and no music.  So even if the practice isn’t the greatest challenge, the environment is.  If you love heat and you like to literally wring your clothes out after working out, this just might be the class for you.

Hot yoga or hot flow Yoga: 

A generic term for any type of yoga (flow or not) conducted in a heated room.  The room is typically heated anywhere in temperature from the mid 80’s to mid 90’s.  Again, you must love heat to work in these environments.

Kundalini Yoga:

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

A practice to awaken the spiritual energy of Kundalini – an energy that travels from the base of the spine to the crown of the head.  Classes are a combination of breath work & movements that focus on the spine and navel regions of the body.  I haven’t taken a Kundalini class in years but when I did, they felt a little frantic and a bit out there.  Not for the faint at heart.

Yin Yoga:

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

A stretch-based yoga that deals with stretching the fascia & connective tissues of the body.  It’s a more meditative type of class that have prolonged holds in each position (up to 5 minutes).  I’m not going to say that this is gentle, because you can start into deep stretches with little to no warm-up.  However, no one is pushing you into these stretches.  You’re allowing time & gravity to move you deeper.  Not for someone who wants a lot of activity.  But great for someone who is chronically tight and is looking for consistent, full body stretching.

Restorative Yoga: 

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

A very gentle and supported class for those who want or need to completely relax.  In these classes, bolsters, blankets, straps and blocks are used to fully support the body to allow a very gentle stretch to happen over the period of 1 to 10 minutes.  Minimal talking happens; only to direct into the next positioning.  Meditative music is usually playing.  This is a great class for those who want to treat themselves to an hour or more of complete and utter relaxation.

There are many different types of yoga, and this list only scratches the surface — but it covers the most common styles you’re likely to encounter. Most other classes are variations of these foundational practices.

Although...a couple of fun & different honorable mentions go to:

Acro or Partner Yoga:

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

Aerial Yoga:

There’s no one-size-fits-all yoga — finding the right style makes all the difference

Though you can do most yogas in a gym or at home, for these two above, you'll definitely need to find a studio that specializes.

Once you've found a yoga style that works for you, the next challenge is finding a teacher you connect with. There are many great yoga styles, but the right teacher can make all the difference — much like finding a great hairdresser or dentist.

I hope you find your yoga in 2026.

If you'd like to start a yoga practice and don't know where to begin or are feeling a bit anxious about being in a group setting, private lessons are a great way to start your yoga journey. I host private lessons/sessions and specialize in vinyasa yoga with an emphasis on form and activation.  For more information, please take a look at my yoga page.