Let's Talk Yoga
Welcome to the Let's Talk Yoga podcast—your ultimate online destination for everything yoga. Think of it as your virtual yoga school, offering something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned yoga teacher, a dedicated student, or simply curious about the deeper layers of yoga.
Join host Arundhati Baitmangalkar, an immigrant yoga teacher, studio owner, global mentor, and creator of some of the most sought-after yoga teacher training programs in the world. Each week, we bring you valuable insights, in-depth conversations with renowned yoga teachers, and an abundance of yoga resources designed to inspire, educate, and transform.
From mastering the art of teaching to navigating the complexities of yoga philosophy and business, this niche podcast is your go-to resource for all things yoga. Ready to deepen your practice and expand your understanding? Hit subscribe now and never miss an episode of Let's Talk Yoga!
Let's Talk Yoga
Stretch or Strength First? What Every Yoga Teacher Needs to Know
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Should you teach stretch or strength first in your yoga classes?
In this episode, I break down a clear, practical framework for sequencing, especially for beginners. Learn how to balance flexibility, strength, and mobility in a way that builds confidence, prevents injury, and actually supports long-term progress.
If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to structure your classes, this one’s for you.
Episode Highlights:
- Stretch vs strength sequencing clarity
- Teaching beyond rigid formulas
- Flexibility vs strength in yoga practice
- Injury risks from imbalance
- Beginner-focused sequencing approach
- Building body awareness and proprioception
- Starting with lower body flexibility
- Creating early success through sensation
- Targeting major muscle groups
- Lower body: glutes, hamstrings, quads
- Upper body: side body and breath
- Introducing range of motion work
- Dynamic movement vs passive stretch
- Shoulder and hip mobility focus
- Adding strength for beginners
- Tabletop as foundational strength
- Standing poses for lower body strength
- Sequencing stretch before strength
- Balancing release and stabilization
- Beginner ratios: 70–30 to 60–40
- Adjusting for hypermobility and special cases
- Intermediate student progression
- 50–50 balance and alternating focus
- Teaching with intention and adaptability
Pranayam Teacher Training 2026
Prana & Presence: An Immersive Week of Yoga, Stillness & Soulful Study in Southern Italy
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