Yoga teacher Jenni Rawlings and Exercise Science professor Travis Pollen discuss whether yoga can be considered “exercise” – and why this is a much more complex and nuanced question than it might appear to be on the surface! Points of discussion include: Is a yoga practice challenging enough to be considered “exercise” by exercise science definitions?What is the technical definition of “exercise”, and how is it different from “physical activity”?Can a yoga practice by itself give our body everything it needs to be healthy from a movement/exercise perspective?How a person can be considered both an “exerciser” and “sedentary” at the same time.What is body composition? Can a yoga practice affect body composition?Can a yoga practice improve muscular strength, and can it improve muscular endurance? (These are two different variables!)What is cardiorespiratory fitness, and how is it measured?Can a yoga practice improve cardiorespiratory fitness?Can a yoga practice improve other components of fitness such as balance, agility, speed, power, and coordination?What are the official guidelines for quantity and quality of exercise for healthy adults?Can a yoga practice on its own satisfy these guidelines?…And much more!Enjoy this engaging and eye-opening discussion for yoga, movement, and fitness geeks! Resources mentioned in this episode: Jenni’s email newsletter Podcast episode: Is Ashtanga a Cult? And the Value of Strength Podcast episode: Stability: Clearing Up a Confusing Term! Strength for Yoga Remote Group Training – ongoing, interactive monthly strength program for yogis created by Jenni & Travis Strength Training for Yoga – book by Jenni & Travis Online yoga classes & continuing ed workshops with Jenni To find out more about Travis Pollen: website / Instagram Music used with generous permission from Dischord A Cappella.