The best workouts for your Ayurvedic Dosha

Let’s be honest… workouts can suck sometimes – but especially when we’re doing the wrong kind of workouts for our body type.

The type of workouts that will suit you best depends on your Ayurvedic dosha. If you feel like you’ve tried all different kinds of exercise but haven’t quite hit on the one that feels GOOD, try these suggestions for the best exercise to maintain balance.

VATA

Vata types move quickly and are drawn to intense workouts like cycling classes or running, but what’s best for them is actually exercises that are more grounding.

Vatas often have creaking joints that are prone to injury, so ensuring good form is important. Avoid fast-moving, high-intensity workouts and instead focus on body weight and resistance band exercises that can be done at your own pace. Lunges and squats are also helpful for Vata to improve balance. Vatas should prioritize strength training because of its grounding and building effects.

PITTA

Pitta is the hot, fiery dosha and they tend to love intense workouts that push them to the limit like running marathons. This is fine, but for balance, they should opt for more calming, cooling exercises.

Great workouts for Pittas include swimming, Pilates, and yoga, all of which burn calories and build muscle without putting too much stress on the body. Avoid hot yoga, as already-hot Pitta types don’t need any more fire! Pittas may actually be intuitively uncomfortable in a hot yoga class.

KAPHA

Kapha types are not naturally drawn to exercise, and when imbalanced they can become lethargic, inert and prone to weight gain. That’s why it’s especially important for Kapha types to work up a sweat every day with vigorous exercise.

Despite the fact that they generally don’t love working out, Kapha types have the best endurance of all the doshas, so long walks or jogs are a good place to start. HIIT (high intensity interval training) moves like jumping jacks and burpees are a great way for Kaphas to get sweaty and get their heart rate up. For yoga, fast-moving Vinyasa or hot yoga will be best for Kapha types.

Whether you’re a Pitta, Vata, or Kapha type, exercise is an essential part of living a healthy and balanced life. By finding the right type of exercise for your dosha, you can make sure your body is getting what it needs to achieve better balance. 

If you’re not sure which Ayurvedic dosha you are – head here to take my free dosha quiz!