Men’s Day Spotlight: Pune Men Embrace Yoga Like Never Before
By Ketaki Latkar
Pune, 19th November 2025: Yoga studios across the city are witnessing a steady surge in the number of men signing up for classes — a shift that trainers say has been building momentum over the past few years. A fitness space once largely associated with women is now drawing working professionals, athletes, and middle-aged men seeking long-term, sustainable wellness solutions.
City-based holistic health centre The Yog Circle has seen this change unfold firsthand.
“Most men come to yoga to cope with stress and manage lifestyle-related concerns. It’s an encouraging sign — and a smart investment in their long-term well-being,” says Jaya Ramesh, yoga trainer and co-founder of the centre.
In fact, in several studios, the rise has been so consistent that men now outnumber women.
“At present, I train seven men and four women, mostly in one-on-one sessions,” says Sneha Malhathkar of Sneh’yog Studio. “Many join to improve recovery and flexibility. And once they begin, they realise yoga can be far more strenuous than its ‘too gentle’ stereotype. There’s much more to yoga than breathing techniques.”
Sneha adds that men tend to be more regular as well, often missing very few sessions.
Why Men Are Turning to Yoga
Trainers say the motivation is multi-layered: men are increasingly looking for ways to reduce stress and anxiety brought on by fast-paced corporate schedules, correct posture and mobility issues stemming from long desk hours, and build strength, stability, and breath control — without the wear and tear of high-impact workouts.
For many, yoga complements other fitness routines.
Anup Jhamtani, who takes yoga lessons at The Yog Circle, says, “Yoga helps me build flexibility and prevents injuries while strength training. This blend of physical and mental benefits offers the perfect balance.”
As Pune’s fitness culture evolves, trainers say the trend is only likely to grow — with more men embracing yoga not just as a workout, but as a holistic path to healthier living.
