What is LES MILLS YOGA?
Fraser Beck (FB): Well firstly, it isn’t just yoga. It’s a four-part offering that opens up different types of yoga practices. You can choose from the more traditional Hatha style, Yin for healing and restoration, or the modern strength-based flow of Vinyasa. And there’s breathwork too. Which is so important because breathing is the epicenter of human function.
Each of these four classes bring together powerful coaching, expert programming, and a deep respect for traditional practice.
"Powerful coaching, expert programming, and a deep respect for traditional practice."
Why has LES MILLS YOGA been developed?
FB: Our aim is to help evolve how people think about training. A well-balanced training routine is not just about physical strength and fitness, but also focusing on building resilience to stress and improving overall wellbeing.
The good thing is more people are becoming aware of this. Increasingly, activities that nurture mental wellbeing are becoming a priority. We wanted to make it easy for people to choose credible and effective mind/body movement that feels right for them. That’s why we’ve focused on the different practices – and what led us to create such a diverse new offering with four different formats.
Tell us about the development
FB: It’s been well over two years in the making, and along the way we’ve drawn on the expertise of many highly skilled and very passionate yoga experts; myself, Millie Taylor, Jackie Mills MD, Diana Archer Mills, Kylie Gates and Khiran Huston.
Bryce Hastings, Gillian Hatfield and our international research team also fed into the process, ensuring each aspect was grounded in the latest science. Then we put the classes through extensive trials across New Zealand and in some of the biggest club chains in Sweden. Almost 90% of those who tried it said they would recommend to friends.
Every step of the way we’ve been testing and refining each format. Our aim has been to find the perfect blend of traditional yoga, great music, expert guidance, and all the things that make group training motivating – so you keep coming back for more.
"The perfect blend of traditional yoga, great music, expert guidance ..."
What makes LES MILLS YOGA different from other yoga offerings?
FB: The big word is accessibility. Traditional yoga can feel exclusive – the studio environments can be intimidating, and for potential Instructors, the idea of building up hundreds of hours of practice can be daunting. LES MILLS YOGA brings boutique yoga experiences into the gym, and allows people to dip their toes in however they like.
What’s also unique is the diversity on offer. Each format offers a completely different experience. It gives clubs the ability to tailor their timetable to suit their member base, and gives people the freedom to choose to move based on how they feel.
Can you break down the four formats, and what’s to love about each?
FB: You get four different 45-minute formats when you choose LES MILLS YOGA.
- LES MILLS YOGA HATHA focuses on alignment, strength, and stability. It’s a great foundation practice, and it’s a nostalgic place for me, as Hatha is where my yoga journey started.
- LES MILLS YOGA YIN is a restorative practice with long-held stretches to calm the nervous system. This is essential for recovery, especially for anyone who trains hard and wants to perform at their best.
- LES MILLS YOGA VINYASA is all about the music and the energy. It’s an athletic flow set to an upbeat playlist. Interestingly, vinyasa style yoga was first adopted as a training routine by soldiers, because it is a great functional way to build strength without equipment.
- LES MILLS BREATH blends breathwork and movement for clarity and grounding. Breathing is what controls and regulates every biological process in the body, so tuning into your breath is invaluable. It’s something I’ve been researching and practising for over 15 years, and I truly believe that breath training can change your life.
How does this compare to BODYBALANCE?
FB: When Les Mills created BODYBALANCE, it was the first time yoga was choreographed to music, and it was a game-changer that proved to be really popular. BODYBALANCE is now loved by millions of people in 15,000 clubs around the world. LES MILLS YOGA also involves moving to music – and the music is soooo good!
While BODYBALANCE blends yoga moves with Pilates and Tai Chi, LES MILLS YOGA dives deeper into traditional and modern yoga practices. And there’s a real focus on it being a shared journey. There’s a Māori principle called ako, which means a reciprocal teacher-student relationship. This is something you really feel with LES MILLS YOGA; it’s not hierarchical – we’re all moving through the experience together.
Those who enjoy BODYBALANCE will find LES MILLS YOGA is a great complement as it gives you the opportunity to build your practice and delve into different yoga experiences.
Is this just for yoga lovers?
FB: Not at all. Our aim was not to create something for yoga lovers, our aim is to help open up the world of yoga to more people. That being said, I’m pretty sure everyone from yoga newbies to those who spend hours on the mat will enjoy LES MILLS YOGA.
As a yoga practitioner myself, I was skeptical when I first came across the idea of pre-choreographed practice. But I soon fell in love with the idea of moving to music, the sequencing, and the choreography. It enhances your ability to connect with your students. Plus, the music across all four formats is incredible!
Why will group fitness Instructors love teaching LES MILLS YOGA?
FB: The diversity is so appealing! With one license, Instructors and clubs get access to all four formats. You can teach everything from healing Yin, to strength-building Vinyasa – and you get the benefits yourself. It’s also a great way to expand your teaching without the physical toll of high-intensity formats. Basically, you can get paid to heal your body.
If you’re new to yoga, how should you start adding LES MILLS YOGA into your routine?
FB: There’s no rush. Just dip your toes in. Try a format that speaks to you, or think about what your body needs right now and tune into it. Whether you’re an athlete drawn to vinyasa, or someone looking to recover with yin, there’s something for everyone. You don’t need to have a certain ability, the Instructors always provide options to increase or decrease intensity.
And you don’t need any equipment (although a LES MILLS Yoga Mat does make it more comfortable).
This is yoga made for every body, every level, and every mindset. Whether you’re seeking strength or stillness, it will elevate you to a higher state.
Learn more about LES MILLS YOGA.
