Rocket Yoga, also known as “The Rocket,” is a dynamic and invigorating style of yoga that combines traditional Ashtanga yoga with elements of creative vinyasa yoga flow. Rocket yoga is based on the traditional ashtanga series, divided into three sequences derived from the primary and intermediate series of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.
This unique power yoga style was created by Larry Schultz, a student of Pattabhi Jois, the founder of Ashtanga yoga.
| Table of Content | |
|---|---|
| 1. | Who is Larry Schultz? |
| 2. | What is Rocket Yoga? Origin of Rocket Yoga |
| 3. | Key features |
| 4. | The Rocket Yoga Sequences |
| 5. | Rocket Yoga System |
| 6. | Rocket Yoga Benefits |
| 7. | Tips for Beginners |
| 8. | Popular Rocket yoga teacher in 2026 |
| 9. | Rocket Yoga FAQ |
| 10. | Rocket Yoga Infographics |
| 11. | Conclusion |
Larry Schultz: the Rocket Yoga founder
Larry Schultz, also known as “the father of Rocket Yoga,” was a dedicated student of Pattabhi Jois, the founder of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. Schultz began his yoga practice in the 1970s and quickly fell in love with the Ashtanga method. He went on to become one of Jois’ most dedicated and accomplished students.
In the 1980s, Schultz began to experiment with the Ashtanga series, adding new poses and modifications to the practice. He also began to incorporate elements of vinyasa flow, a style of yoga that emphasizes movement & breath, but being more creative. The result was to become the Rocket style, a dynamic and invigorating yoga practice that quickly gained popularity among yoga students.
Rocket Yoga is now taught and practiced all over the world. With increased interest in the Rocket yoga style, you can also practice it and learn the sequences in popular yoga teacher training in Bali and Thailand with All Yoga certification program
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“Larry Schultz was considered the “Bad Man of Ashtanga Yoga”. While practicing with Guruji, Larry liked to sneak in more advanced poses, such as handstands, for fun. Pattabhi Jois would catch and call him affectionately: You Bad man – You Bad man!
What is Rocket Yoga? Origin of Rocket Yoga
In the mid 1990s, Larry Schultz traveled on tour with the Grateful Dead as the band’s personal yoga teacher. He spent a lot of time in hotels and had to find ways to entertain himself. Bored in his hotel room, practicing on his own, he came up with a highly creative, highly accessible version of Ashtanga Vinyasa, later named Rocket Yoga.
Why the name “Rocket Yoga”?
The “Rocket” name comes from Bob Wier, the famous guitar player from the iconic rock band “The Grateful Dead”. After one of the classes, Bob asked Larry Shultz: “How do you call this yoga sequence? It’s great!”. Larry replied that he did not have a name for it; he just loved to teach it. Bob Wier then said to Larry that he should call it “The Rocket!” Larry asked why, and Wier replied, “because it gets you there faster!!” And it stuck instantly. Larry joked he never knew where “there” was… but the Rocket would take you there faster anyway.
Rocket Yoga Key features
- Rocket Yoga Key Features Summary:
- Playful and fun
- Faster tempo
- Accessible for all levels
- Focus on inversions and arm balances
- 3 sequences based on Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga
More playful with a faster tempo
While the traditional method of Ashtanga Yoga focuses on long and slow ujjayi breath, Rocket is a bit more upbeat. While we keep the Ujjaji Pranayama breathing and five breaths per pose, the count is a bit faster. It makes the practice more fun while keeping the meditative aspect of the breath. Rocket becomes like a dance or a moving meditation.
Rocket Yoga Inversions
One of the main features of Rocket Yoga is its emphasis on inversions, such as headstands, handstands, and elbow stands. These fun and challenging poses have many benefits for the body, including increased blood flow to the brain, improved circulation, and a boost to the immune system.
Arms Balances
Another unique aspect of Rocket is the use of “flying” poses. These are a series of arm balances and transitions designed to build strength, flexibility, and coordination in the upper body. These flying poses are a lot of fun and can be a great way to build confidence and self-esteem.
Accessible for all levels
Arm balances and inversions can be challenging, but they don’t have to be out of reach for those who have never practiced. This is the beauty of the Rocket sequence. With proper guidance and modifications, arm balances are accessible to everyone. With patience and consistency, anyone can develop the skills to practice safely and effectively.
Music
One other important element of Rocket is music. Music is a powerful tool in a yoga practice to create a specific atmosphere. It helps to create a fun and dynamic vibe to stay energized and focused. Generally, the playlist will be more upbeat and energetic than a regular yoga class, mixing different genres such as rock, hip-hop, electronic, and world music. The music keeps the energy high and supports students to maintain a steady pace throughout the practice.
In my experience of the empowering flow of Rocket Yoga, I find myself transcending limitations, embracing vulnerability, and harnessing inner strength. As I synchronize my breath with each challenging movement, I am reminded that the journey is as much about the exploration within as it is about the physical asanas. This style of yoga gifts me a renewed sense of freedom and possibility. It’s the perfect complement of my Yin practice.
Annie Au Yoga, Founder of Soulful Yin Yoga
The Rocket Yoga Sequences
Warm-up sequence
Same as the traditional Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga method, the Rocket practice begins with the Sun Salutations sequences, to help prepare the body for the more intense poses that are to come. Usually, we will do 3 rounds of Sun Salutation A followed by 3 rounds of Sun Salutation B. It’s recommended to simply walk back for the Sun Salutaion A rounds and start to jump back from Sun Salutation B.
Rocket Yoga Launching sequence
Right after the last Sun Salutation B, student will get the first taste of Rocket with the launching sequence. This little vinyasa flow sets the pace and vibe for the rest of the rocket practice. It starts with Chair pose, followed by Half chair pose and from there the first arm balance: Bakasana or Crow pose. From there, we jump back to chaturanga for a vinyasa and then initiate the standing sequence of the Rocket sequence. Check out the video in the next section for a demonstration of the launching sequence.
Rocket Yoga Standing Poses
The practice then moves on to a launching sequence linked to a series of standing poses, such as the Warrior poses and the Triangle poses. These helps to build strength and balance in the legs and core.
Rocket Yoga 1 Sequence
Rocket 1 is based on the Ashtanga Primary Series. A big focus is on forward folds, which lengthen and strengthen the hamstrings.
| Name | |
|---|---|
| 1. | Dandasana – Staff pose |
| 2. | Paschimottanassana A and B – Forward folds |
| 3. | Purvottanasana – Upward plank pose |
| 4. | Ardha Baddha Padma Paschimottanasana – Half-bound lotus pose |
| 5. | Trianga Mukhaikapada Paschimottanasana – Three-Limbed Forward Bend |
| 6. | Janu Sirsasana A and B – Head-to-Knee Forward Bend |
| 7. | Marichyasana A and C – Sitting twist |
| 8. | Baddha Konasana – Butterfly pose |
| 9. | Upavista Konasana A an B – Wide-legged forward fold |
| 10. | Supta Konasana – Reclined angle pose |
| 11. | Supta Padangustasana A and B – Reclined Big Toe Pose |
| 12. | Ubhaya Padangustasana – Seated balancing pose |
| 13. | Setu Bandhasana – Bridge pose |
| 14. | Urdhva Dhanurasana – Wheel pose |
| 15. | Paschimottanasana – Forward fold |
| 16. | Eka Pada Raja Kapotasana – Pigeon pose |
| 17. | Gomukasana – Cow pose |
Rocket Yoga 2 Sequence
Rocket 2 is based on the Intermediate Series with a focus on spinal extensions to stimulate the nervous system. Larry Schultz like to joke about Rocket yoga 2 sequence by saying: “90 min classes, 90 poses! That’s the Rocket!”
| Name | |
|---|---|
| 1. | Pasasana |
| 2. | Krounchasana |
| 3. | Salabhasana |
| 4. | Dhanurasana |
| 5. | Supta Virasana |
| 6. | Ustrasana |
| 7. | Balasana |
| 8. | Kapotasana A and B |
| 9. | Urdhva Dhanurasana |
| 10. | Handstand |
| 11. | Straddle Handstand |
| 12. | Pincha Mayurasana |
| 13. | Bharadvajasana |
| 14. | Ardha Matsyendrasana |
| 15. | Mayurasana |
| 16. | Nakrasana |
Rocket Yoga 3 Sequence
Rocket 3 is a combination of Rocket 1 and 2. Rocket 3 doesn’t imply that it is more advanced, it simply contains asanas from Rocket 1 and 2, and as per the Rocket philosophy, it should always remain accessible.
Back in the days in San Fransisco where Larry Schultz’s studio was located, he would teach Rocket 3 every Friday.
Students and Rocket yoga lovers used to call that day the BBQ day! They knew that they were going be roasted by the challenging and fun Rocket class.
Finishing poses
The practice concludes with a series of inversions and relaxation poses, such as headstands, shoulder stands, yoga mudra, padmasana and savasana. This helps to release tension from the body and calm the mind.
Important Note
Unlike the strict sequence of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga where each pose is practiced following a rigid order, Rocket Yoga is more fluid and playful. A Rocket teacher can add his own flavor to the sequence by adding more poses and variations. Each class will have a different vibe, keeping the practice fresh and interesting.
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- Rocket Yoga Ebook
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- Complete Rocket Yoga Sequences
Rocket Yoga System
Back in the days, in the bustling city of San Francisco, Larry Schultz revolutionized the yoga scene with his innovative Rocket Yoga classes. Introducing a one-of-a-kind class schedule, he dubbed it the “Rocket Yoga System.” Tailored to each day of the week, these dynamic sequences were designed to provide a truly holistic practice, addressing every aspect of the body while promoting balance in the nervous system and purifying the mind. This unique approach quickly gained traction, captivating countless students and making this style of yoga become very popular!
Rocket Yoga Benefits
- Rocket Yoga Keys Benefits
- Build Upper Body strength
- Improve overall flexibility
- Improve cardiovascular health
- Boost lung capacity
- Better mental clarity and focus
- Reduce Stress
- Release body tension
- Increase in energy and vitality
With Rocket being a fast-paced and dynamic practice, it offers a variety of benefits for the body and mind. It helps to build upper body strength and improve overall flexibility and cardiovascular health. The practice requires focus, which improves mental clarity and concentration. As there are several inversions and arm balances in the sequence, it enhances balance and coordination.
The combination of physical movement and focused breathing can help to reduce stress and tension in the body, promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being. Expect an increase in energy levels and overall vitality.
Rocket Yoga places emphasis on the breath, which boosts your lung capacity and overall respiratory function.
Rocket Yoga is known for its fun, dynamic and challenging sequences and provides an exciting change of pace from traditional yoga styles, keeping the practice fresh and interesting.
6 Tips: Rocket Yoga for Beginners
- START SIMPLE: If you are new to Rocket Yoga, it is best to start with an “all levels” or “beginner-friendly” class and to work with a qualified teacher who can help you to easily modify poses such as lotus yoga pose to suit your level of fitness and ability.
- REMEMBER TO BREATHE: There’s a strong emphasis and focus on the breath. Keep it steady and smooth as you move through the postures.
- LISTEN TO YOUR BODY: It can be fast-paced and dynamic, so it’s important to go at your own pace and not push yourself too hard. Listen to your body and only do what feels comfortable for you.
- MODIFY: If a posture or movement feels too difficult, don’t be afraid to use modifications or props to make it more accessible. Your teacher will offer modifications and variations to help you progress at your own pace.
- BE PATIENT: Remember that learning Rocket is a process, and it will take time and practice to develop the strength and flexibility needed to perform the more advanced postures. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the journey. With regular practice, you will soon notice an improvement in your flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as a sense of calm and focus in your mind.
- Most importantly: HAVE FUN!
Popular Rocket yoga teacher in 2026
Rocket yoga is a popular and fast-paced and Dynamic style of yoga, that appeals to many – it’s certainly one of our favorite! Looking to try a Rocket Yoga class? We hand picked the best rocket yoga teachers in 2026!
The founder of Rocket Yoga, Larry Schultz, was a student of Pattabhi Jois for 7 years and then went on to pass his passion for Rocket Yoga to many teachers around the globe. Teachers who were initially qualified in Rocket yoga had to have trained with Larry himself; now those teachers have gone on to pave the Rocket path for many more students interested in firing up their personal practice and teaching skills. This sparks the question, after the lineage has developed and progressed, who are the best Rocket yoga teachers out there?
Keep reading below to find out who we rate the best!
Important Note:
We chose the Rocket Yoga teachers listed below based on our personal experience with them and/or positive feedback from our community.
1. David Adame – Rocket Yoga Teacher in Bali
Our very own David Adame, David has a background in contemporary dance and his style of teaching focuses on awareness of movement and connection between body and mind. As many do, David started with Ashtanga Vinyasa in 2014 when he was living in Asia and since then has a profound love and deep sense of connection to the practice. So much so that David is now our lead teacher on the 200-hour Ashtanga yoga course in Bali – we couldn’t have found a more perfect fit if we had tried! David then founded Rocket in 2015 and has never looked back, he completed his online Rocket Yoga training with Carl Calhoun in 2020.
In his teachings, David successfully integrates his own personal experiences with the traditions of yoga, the modern day approach to movement and factual evidential based science research. This helps every individual student in the room reach their own potential and sparks commitment and excitement in his teachings. David’s classes are no doubt challenging (- don’t forget your towel!), however he has the ability to balance this with a light heartedness and focus on exploration and transformation. David effortlessly shares vitality, happiness and passion with his students the same way he cultivates his own relationship with yoga every time he steps on the mat.
David has a passion for passing on what inspires him to others and he certainly creates ignitions of inspiration within his students.
David runs the Rocket Yoga module on the 300 hr ytt, which has been widely popular, so much so that the course opens with this module to really engage our students from the get go. David’s strong foundational understanding and personal practise of Ashtanga supports and aids his passion for Rocket – that’s why he makes it look so effortless…
No joke, you can always find David doing one of the most challenging poses there is in the series, with a huge smile on his face and that’s why we love him!
2. Marcus Veda – Rocket Yoga Teacher in London
Marcus Veda is a well known and renowned Rocket Yoga practitioner and teacher, similar to many Marcus first was attracted to the practise for the physical fix and then he noticed the magic within the practise as it deepened. He studied a Philosophy degree and then went onto be in a band for the majority of his 20’s, however his passion for union of the mind and body sparked when Marcus got into the world of Ninjutsu and Brazilian Jui Jitsu. Marcus then came onto find yoga after suffering with multiple injuries and like many others never looked back! He was hooked….
Instantly Marcus had an urge to fly and practise inversions, which naturally took him straight to the Ashtanga and Rocket Yoga system. This then started to ingrain in his day-day life and took over as a way of life rather than a way of movement and exercise. Marcus’s spiritual connection to the practise deepened and he could relate a lot of his martial arts philosophy into his practise, Marcus mentions “it’s about trying to observe the mind stuff, whilst gravity, balance and constant distractions get in your way.”
Marcus trained with The Yoga People, which is where is passion for Rocket Yoga was ignited. Then went onto many advanced trainings with David Swenson, David Kyle and Jason Crandell and is now a Yoga Alliance ERYT 500. Marcus is based in London and you can find him teaching regularly at Triyoga and on his own retreats and yoga teacher training courses.
3. Carson Calhoun – Rocket Yoga Teacher in the US
Carson is a self – described “Handstand-Up-Comedian”. Carson has a passion for being upside down and combines his love for this with his natural ability to make people laugh and bring a smile to their faces. Carson has a light hearted approach and always encourages his students to push their limits, explore their edge and full range of motion whilst maintaining a playful attitude which is incredibly refreshing in the practise of yoga.
Carson has been practising yoga for over 10 years, he started in 2010 and took his first yoga teacher training in 2011 at Little River Yoga. Since he has studied Ashtanga Yoga with David B. Neil and Rocket Yoga with David C. Kyle.
At any given moment, Carsons students can be sure that they’ll break a sweat, learn something new and leave with a smile on their face. Our own David Adame trained with Carson in 2022 and couldn’t recommend him more if you are looking to get into the practise. Carson being a movement enthusiast, he integrates a mix of disciplines into his classes which have a strong focus on building a resilient mind and body. You can find Carson on YouTube and he now runs his very own Rocket Yoga teacher trainings.
4. Amber Jean – Rocket Yoga Teacher in the US
Amber Jean aka. The Rocket Girl…
Amber Jean has facilitated Rocket Yoga teacher trainings since 2000 and owns her own YTT centre called the Rocket Yoga Academy. She is the most senior Rocket Yoga teacher in our list. She trained with Larry Schultz himself in San Francisco and she mentions that he had an amazing quality to bring people together and lightened up the atmosphere. Amber despite being based in Ohio, has taught in many city’s across the world and facilitated yoga teacher trainings also, she ran the 1st and 2nd ever approved training that was not run by Larry himself in 2018 which was fully facilitated by Amber – which is kind of a big deal if we don’t say so ourselves!
Her trainings have been in cities globally such as London, Vancouver, New Mexico, Costa Rica, The Netherlands and Nicaragua. If you decide to learn with Amber, she will help you with Rocket 1 and sequencing and deepening your practise of Rocket 2 and 3, helping guide yogis more safely through Rocket routines.
Her traditional dedication to the practise and student teacher connection she had with Larry, shines through in her teaching and approach to Rocket yoga.
You can follow and find Amber on Instagram
5. Leon London
Leon London’s yoga story roughly first started around 20 years ago when he undertook his first practice with Billy Doyle which like many sparked a lifelong passion for practising yoga. He is a popular rocket yoga teacher based near london. Leon’s martial arts background had already encouraged a curiousness for the possibilities and potential of the body – which led him to study forms of physiology such as boxing and sports massage. After learning about the body and as his practise deepened Leon went onto study Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, Ashtanga, Rocket Yoga, Hot and Dharma yoga.
Leon has trained with many yoga super stars such as Kino McGregor, David Swenson, David. Kyle, Miguel Santana and Danny Paradise. He studied the primary and second series with David Swenson and then took an advanced Rocket / Progressive Ashtanga Vinyasa 300hr with David C Kyle. Leon will be leading Rocket Yoga Teacher trainings in 2023 in Amsterdam, London and Jerusalem.
Rocket Yoga FAQ
What is Rocket Yoga?
Rocket Yoga is a more accessible version of the Ashtanga Vinyasa system, created by Pattabhi Jois. Both of them consist of Sun Salutations, followed by a standing and seated sequence, and finishes with the traditional closing series. Rocket follows a certain structure, however the given sequence can be altered and modified according to the practitioner’s level. It’s a dynamic and fast-paced flow supported by music, with the intent of making the practice a lot of fun.
What is Rocket Yoga good for?
Rocket strengthens muscles and improves balance. Due to its fast-paced nature and usually more being more intense (yet still accessible for all levels) than Hatha or Vinyasa Yoga it can boost cardiovascular health too. Practicing Rocket yoga enhances concentration and reduces stress.
Where can I practice Rocket Yoga?
Rocket Yoga is becoming more and more popular all around the world. Many yoga studios offer classes as part of their regular schedule and often even workshops. Search for local studios that offer Rocket Yoga classes and enrol in one that fits your schedule and level of experience.
How do I become a Rocket Yoga Teacher?
Firstly, attend Rocket Yoga classes by an experienced rocket yoga teacher to build a strong foundation in the Rocket practice. Familiarise yourself with the principles, postures, and sequences of Rocket Yoga. Then look for a reputable Rocket Yoga teacher training program that is recognised by the Yoga Alliance. All Yoga Training offers a comprehensive Yoga module within their Rocket 300 Hrs Advanced Yoga Teacher Training. You get to practice and learn teaching the three different sequences, learn the “mechanics of flight” complemented by Handstands & Mobility and Anatomy & Physiology.
Want to become a competent and confident Rocket Yoga teacher, capable of sharing the benefits of this practice with others? Click 300 hour ytt for more information.
Rocket Yoga Infographics
More Rocket Yoga Resources
Searching for somewhere to complete a rocket yoga teacher training is more challenging than one would think… With not many Rocket teacher training schools to choose from, we’ve have cut out the work and research for you. We have narrowed it down to the 10 best Rocket yoga teacher training worldwide.
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Rocket yoga is a popular and fast-paced and Dynamic style of yoga, that appeals to many – it’s certainly one of our favorite! Looking to try a class? We hand picked the best rocket yoga teachers in 2023! The founder of Rocket, Larry Schultz, was a student of Pattabhi Jois for 7 years and then went onto pass his passion for rocket onto many teachers around the globe.
read more
We have designed this 300 Hours Yoga Teacher Training specifically for existing yoga teachers who wish to deepen and expand their understanding of yoga. Throughout the first half of the training (15 training days plus days off), the main focus will be Rocket Yoga, complemented by Handstands & Mobility and Anatomy & Physiology.
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Conclusion
Rocket Yoga is a dynamic and invigorating practice that can offer a wide range of benefits for both the body and mind. Its unique blend of traditional Ashtanga yoga and vinyasa flow, emphasis on inversions and flying poses make it stand out from other styles. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, this is a practice that can be tailored to suit your level of fitness and ability.
Practicing Rocket style can help you to increase flexibility, strength, and balance in the body, while also helping to improve focus and concentration. It’s also a great way to build self-confidence and self-esteem. And if you’re looking to shake up your yoga practice, try incorporating some inversions and flying poses, you will see how much fun it is and how it can benefit you.
But it’s not just about the physical benefits of the practice, Rocket Yoga can also have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being. It can be a great tool for managing stress and anxiety, and it can also help you to find a sense of calm and inner peace.
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The post What is Rocket Yoga? The Most Complete 2026 Rocket Yoga Guide appeared first on All Yoga Training.
