Mat Trick
Truth is, between the hippie-dippy music, overly zenned-out teachers and snail’s-pace moves that leave you thinking, “this cannot possibly be considered a workout,” you’re just not a fan.
When it comes to yoga you’re kind of a poser. Sure you own the mat and the pants (mostly because they make your butt look a-ma-zing), but when it comes to actually making it to class, the only stretching you’ve been doing is stretching for excuses.
Or, at least you weren’t until you found Sports Yoga Hawaii — the brainchild of David Onoue, a twenty-something local boy and lifelong soccer player who had wanted to improve his performance on the field and reduce his risk of injury. Finding nowhere to take a sports-centric yoga class, he decided to start his own.
At his small studio across the street from Kahala Mall you’ll find a totally different yoga experience. There’s no excruciatingly mellow pan flute music. Instead, up-beat top 40 hits keep the pace lively. And while you’ll recognize many of the moves from a traditional yoga class, strategic strengthening is also a big part of each session, which means you’ll definitely break a sweat and walk away worked. Finally, be ready for personal attention. Since the classes usually consist of five people or less, Onoue keeps a close eye on everyone.
Best of all, if you’re an athlete, Onoue will tailor the workout to your specific sport’s demands. He’s worked with a Punahou basketball player, countless soccer players, runners and triathletes. And if you’re not, no worries – you’ll still leave feeling limber, focused and toned.
It’s just what you need to change your position on yoga.
Sports Yoga Hawaii, 4218 Waialae Ave. #201 (above Urgent Care), Honolulu. More info here.
