My short-cut to fitness!

“What is one exercise routine that can be completed in a short time and involves elements of CrossFit, aerobics, strength training, stretching, and breathing exercises? That would be Yogic Jogging, as introduced by Baba Ramdev.

My feelings towards Baba Ramdev are mixed. I disapprove of his statements against modern medical science. Yet, I admire his entrepreneurship, his support for the ‘made-in-India’ cause, and his efforts to popularize Yoga and Pranayama. And I especially appreciate his introduction of “Yogic Jogging.”

Yogic Jogging encompasses all the vital components of a comprehensive workout. It starts with three static aerobic running exercises, followed by squats. After the squats, there are four stretching movements, two of which also incorporate breathing exercises. This leads into two strength-building exercises, and it concludes with two CrossFit exercises. Each segment lasts around 45 seconds to one minute. In total, this routine takes about 10 minutes and can burn approximately 150–200 calories, leaving you sweating.

I begin with a warm-up that includes chanting the Gayatri Mantra, Mahadeva Mantra, Jyothi Mantra, Shanti Mantra, and Omkara, which takes around two and a half minutes. Afterward, I proceed with Yogic Jogging. To wind down, I listen to two minutes of soothing music. Altogether, including warm-up and cooldown, the session takes about 14 minutes. During Yogic Jogging, I play two Hindi patriotic songs as background music for motivation: “Mera Rang De Basanti Chola” from ‘The Legend of Bhagat Singh’ and “Yeh Desh Hai Veer Jawanon Ka” from ‘Naya Daur.’

This routine is excellent for busy individuals and has proven invaluable when I’m traveling. It can be performed anywhere without any special equipment; it just requires the motivation to move! The duration can be extended by adding more songs. It is also an effective warm-up or stretching sequence before engaging in yoga, pranayama, or gym workouts.

The only other exercise routine that I find as comprehensive as Yogic Jogging is the Suryanamaskara, which should be performed continuously for at least 30 to 50 repetitions.

I adore Yogic Jogging! It’s my quick-fix fitness mantra. You can learn Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali Yogic Jogging at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6aon9e0GeM.

Prof. Dr. Prahlada N. B
7 January 2019
Chitradurga.