Hatha
What is it?
The most traditional and basic of styles, Hatha has long been known as a good starting point for beginners. The practice has its roots in 15th-century India, and untouched asanas (postures) are combined with meditation and pranayama (breathing techniques).
Who does it?
Traditionalists and celebrities including Miranda Kerr and Ricky Martin.
What it does for your body
It has been shown to significantly improve flexibility, muscular strength and balance after only a couple of months. Studies have also suggested that it can have a positive effect on depression sufferers.
Kundalini
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What is it?
The postures and meditations in this style are designed to awaken “kundalini” energy in the spine — the theory being that this will help us to reach our full potential in our lives. Although its principles have appeared in Hindu textbooks dating back to the 12th century, it was made popular in the West in the Sixties by Yogi Bhajan.
Who does it?
Russell Brand, Demi Moore, Christy Turlington, Rachel McAdams, Michelle Williams and Jake Gyllenhaal are just a few who love the practice’s spiritual approach.
What it does for your body
The focus of Kundalini is on breathing techniques such as alternate nostril breathing and this, combined with chanting and meditation, is meant to reduce stress and help you relax. Some of the postures are held for more than 10 minutes at a time, so stamina is improved.
Vinyasa
What is it?
Literally meaning “breath-synchronised movement”, Vinyasa is used to describe any flowing form of yoga. The class focuses on the sun salutation series of postures, with each posture held for an extended period and no break between asanas.
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Who does it?
Adam Levine, Drew Barrymore and Ellen DeGeneres are just a few devotees.
What it does for your body
The repetitive nature of the practice and continuous flow creates a relaxed, meditative mindset.
Bikram
What is it?
Bikram, also known as hot yoga, was created by the Indian (now millionaire) yogi Bikram Choudhury in the Seventies. Twenty-six Hatha postures are performed in a room heated to 38C-45C, and it is a favourite with those who like to feel as if they’ve had a proper cardiovascular workout.
Who does it?
George Clooney, Harry Styles and Lady Gaga.
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What it does for your body
The temparatures and effort transform this into an aerobic-style practice, so Bikram is great for weight loss. While those with high blood pressure or diabetes should avoid it, it can help burn up to 600 calories an hour.
Ashtanga
What is it?
Ashtanga yoga involves synchronising the breath with six progressively more difficult series of postures. Each series takes between 90 minutes and three hours to complete and is designed to make you sweat.
Who does it?
Julianne Moore, Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow embrace its cardio properties.
What it does for your body
Improves circulation, calms the mind and because it is dynamic, creates a cardio workout and resistance training in one. The sweat is supposed to purify and detox muscles and organs.
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Yin yoga
What is it?
Yin yoga comes from the Taoist tradition and is practised sitting or lying on the floor. It has much in common with meditation and mindfulness practices, and poses are held for between two and 20 minutes, with a focus on flexibility.
Who does it?
While favoured by athletes, Yin yoga is suitable for all, although some of the stretches can be challenging.
What it does for your body?
Increases flexibility, focuses the mind, and the asanas and breathing techniques target the spine, joint and connective tissue.
Jivamukti
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What is it?
Less than 35 years old, Jivamukti was co-founded by the American yoga teachers David Life and Sharon Gannon. Often performed to music, the practice is a combination of Hatha postures, Sanskrit chanting and elements of philosophy.
Who does it?
Uma Thurman, whose brother is a Jivamukti teacher, Sarah Jessica Parker, Heidi Klum and Sting and wife Trudie Styler.
What it does for your body
More of a work-out than some of the other practices, many are attracted to the intellectually stimulating classes, which are also known for their stress-relieving effects on the mind.
Restorative yoga
What is it?
Small classes are designed to heal back injuries, easing stress or solving digestive problems. The body is gently stretched through poses held for longer than usual to heal the body.
Who does it?
Those seeking to heal a specific problem or anyone under a lot of stress. Salma Hayek is a fan of the practice.
What it does for your body
Postures are designed to target problem areas and alleviate stress through meditation. A recent study implied that the practice improved the sleep patterns of cancer patients.