About Rocket Yoga

Rocket Yoga is a dynamic, accessible modification of Ashtanga yoga that encourages creative expression and 'flying' into challenging poses. Known for its philosophy that 'it's okay to fall out of a pose,' it makes advanced yoga more approachable.

Origins

Created by Larry Schultz in the late 1980s in San Francisco. Schultz studied with Pattabhi Jois and developed Rocket as a way to make Ashtanga more accessible while maintaining its power and heat-building qualities.

Philosophy

Yoga should be accessible, fun, and challenging. Embraces the idea that falling out of poses is part of learning. Encourages students to 'rocket' into their potential.

Characteristics

Modified Ashtanga sequences (Primary and Intermediate)

Creative freedom and modifications encouraged

Arm balances and challenging poses integrated early

Philosophy of 'it's okay to fall out'

Dynamic flowing movements

Heat-building sequences

Less rigid than traditional Ashtanga

Encourages playfulness and exploration

What This Style Focuses On

Arm Balances, Core Strength, Heat Building, Creative Expression, Challenging Poses, Flow Transitions, Mental Courage, Playful Practice

Quick Stats

Difficulty:Intermediate
Intensity:Vigorous
Pacing:Fast
Temperature:Heated

Breathing Style

Ujjayi pranayama with strong focus on breath-movement connection, similar to Ashtanga but with more freedom

Ideal For

  • Intermediate to advanced practitioners
  • Students wanting to challenge themselves
  • Those who like creative, dynamic practice
  • People interested in arm balances
  • Students seeking less rigid structure than Ashtanga