Lower Body Blast

About This Class

This nearly two-hour power yoga flow with Bryan Kest is built around a repeating sun-salutation framework — downward dog, standing forward fold, chair/squat, lunge, plank, cobra — layered progressively with more challenging variations as the body warms. The lower body is the primary focus: deep warrior-style lunges and crescent variations open the hip flexors and quadriceps, three-legged dog and standing splits challenge the hamstrings and glutes, and long pigeon-style hip-opener holds (forearms on the floor) give sustained attention to the outer hips. Standing balance sequences — knee-to-chest, straight-leg extension, and airplane (Warrior III variation) — build single-leg stability and core engagement. The upper body is addressed through side-plank variations, cobra holds, and lateral side-stretch sequences. A shoulder stand and plow variation provide an inversion, followed by supine twists and a long savasana. Throughout, Bryan weaves in his characteristic mindfulness philosophy — breath synchronization, non-competitiveness, self-compassion, and meditative presence — making this as much a mental practice as a physical one. Props are not required. The class is best suited for practitioners looking to deeply open the hips and legs, recover from sitting, or build functional lower-body strength and mobility within a flowing, contemplative format.