There are plenty of yoga disciplines in the world, a handful of which are offered in south-central Idaho. But the Sanskrit words used to describe the classes — vinyasa, hatha, iyengar — can intimidate the uninitiated.

This list isn’t comprehensive. Most gyms and many senior centers offer yoga classes, so check with them for schedules and prices.

And no matter which class you choose, make sure you land a teacher who communicates clearly and offers modifications on the poses for students of all abilities. As with any exercise, improper technique can lead to strains and other injuries.

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If you’re new to exercise, try:

Hatha, gentle yoga

Hatha yoga classes focus on the alignment of a posture, breathing and relaxation, said Sonny Buhidar, hatha yoga instructor at the YMCA in Twin Falls. The breathing helps students relax more and settle more deeply into the poses.

Where to go: Shimmy Shakti in Twin Falls, Twin Falls YMCA, Wood River YMCA in Ketchum.

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If you’re fit or want a challenge, try:

Vinyasa, flow, power

These energizing yoga classes aren’t for the timid. Whitney Hopkins, who teaches yoga at Gold’s Gym, said her flow yoga class moves quickly.

Her motto: “One breath, one movement,” she said.

Kathy Jones, who teaches at Gold’s Gym and Shimmy Shakti Studio of Yoga and Belly Dance, said that although most first-time students are fit, she still tells them not to push themselves.

“I always let them know, you know, just do what you can for the first time,” she said.

Where to go: Gold’s Gym in Twin Falls, Twin Falls YMCA, Impact Athletic in Burley, Shimmy Shakti, Wood River YMCA.

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If you like to mix it up, try:

Yoga hybrids like PiYo or Body Moves

These classes take parts of yoga and combine them with other exercises, like pilates, dance or aerobics. It’s great for folks who want a little cardio or core training with their stretching and breathing.

Where to go: Body IQ in Twin Falls, Impact Athletic.

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If you’re injured:

Hatha yoga, gentle yoga

Although yoga doesn’t replace physical therapy, it’s a great supplement, Buhidar said. Gentle stretching and movements facilitate healing, and when you’re in pain, the relaxation can’t hurt, either.

“We get a lot of referrals from medical doctors,” Buhidar said.

Where to go: Shimmy Shakti, Twin Falls YMCA.

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If you’re a senior:

YogaStretch, gentle yoga, hatha

Like everyone else, seniors have varying fitness levels, but this group is more likely to have had surgeries, injuries and physical impairments. Choose a class that uses props, like blocks or bands, that help get the most out of your abilities.

Where to go: Senior centers often have yoga classes, such as Jerome Senior Center’s YogaStretch sessions on Thursday mornings. Check with yours for the latest schedule.

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If you want to relax:

Spa yoga

This new yoga class incorporates traditional stretches and poses with essential oils. The oils help add to the atmosphere — lavender for relaxing, cinnamon and cloves for stimulation.

“It’s just the most amazing experience,” said Kay Parker, a YMCA instructor who has taken the class. The oils help Parker remember to breathe. “I love to smell those scents,” she said.

Where to go: Twin Falls YMCA.

Melissa Davlin may be reached at 735-3234 or mdavlin@magicvalley.com.