Yoga is the Latest for Fitness and Exercise

Filled with people slick with sweat, the room is 100 degrees. Some are trembling with exertion, their limbs contorted. It's Yoga! Listening to testimonials of students from Big Ron's Yoga College in Gainesville, it may keep you away from your gym, chiropractor, and shrink, forever.

Originating 5,000 years ago and having made the journey from India to America over 100 years ago, yoga is the fastest growing form of fitness exercise. The metaphysical often takes a backseat to the physical for getting in shape and taking away stress. Comments of some of the students at Big Ron's Yoga College range from "it calms me down," "it's a natural face lift," "it improves my golf game," "gives me strength and confidence," and "gets rid of my headaches."

Nancy and Ronny Dubinsky, owners of the Gainesville school at 519-D NW 10th Ave. and the Yoga College of Key West since 1985, as well as the Yoga College of Hollywood for 12 years, and the newly-opened location in Satellite Beach, ask the students to wear bathing suits or cool comfortable clothing. The exercise room is kept toasty at 100 degrees to keep the muscles flexible. The air purification system keeps the air dry, clean, and fresh. Spread your towel, listen to instructions and align yourself as best you can, while looking into the mirror.

With practice, recommended at least 3 times per week, your muscles will soon be toned. You'll be flexible, even in long unused areas. The elderly, pregnant women, and children, can do the poses, so most others can come too. Ann Cushman, editor of Yoga Journal says, "The reason it's becoming so popular is because of the tremendous increase of stress in our society. It's an ancient system, and it's been well tested over the years."