Rocket Yoga in Tallinn

Rocket Yoga is a dynamic, playful, and accessible variation of Ashtanga Yoga created by Larry Schultz in San Francisco during the 1980s. At Goyoga Tallinn's welcoming studio in the city centre (Narva mnt 7D, Block B). you can experience this energising practice that blends traditional Ashtanga sequencing with creative freedom, arm balances, and inversions suited to all levels.

What is Rocket Yoga and where does it come from?

Born from Ashtanga, built for freedom. Rocket Yoga was created by Larry Schultz, a student of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, who felt that traditional Ashtanga sequencing could be made more accessible without losing its transformative power. He rearranged the Primary and Intermediate Series, removed rigid sequencing rules, and encouraged practitioners to explore postures at their own pace.

Three distinct sequences. The Rocket system includes Rocket I (modified Primary Series focusing on standing and seated postures), Rocket II (modified Intermediate Series emphasising backbends and deeper openings), and Rocket III (a fusion of both). This structure gives practitioners variety while maintaining a strong foundation in the Ashtanga lineage.

Playful, not reckless. The name "Rocket" came from Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, who said, "It gets you there faster." The practice is energetic and creative, but always grounded in intelligent alignment and breath-led movement (vinyasa). Every class builds heat, strength, and flexibility in a supportive environment.

Arm balances, inversions, and creative sequencing

Inversions for everyone. In Rocket Yoga, headstands, handstands, and forearm stands are introduced early and made accessible through progressions and modifications. You do not need to master the entire Primary Series before attempting inversions. The teacher provides wall support, spotting, and preparatory drills so every level can participate safely.

Arm balances that build confidence. Crow pose (Bakasana), flying pigeon (Eka Pada Galavasana), and side crow (Parsva Bakasana) appear regularly in Rocket classes. These postures develop upper body strength, core stability, and proprioceptive awareness. Each arm balance is broken down step by step with clear entry and exit points.

Freedom within structure. Unlike traditional Ashtanga where you must complete each pose before progressing, Rocket Yoga lets you skip poses, try advanced variations, or return to basics. This philosophy makes every class feel fresh and personally relevant, regardless of your experience level.

Pricing and frequently asked questions

Rocket Yoga pricing:

Studio Explorer Pass: 29 € (3 trial classes within 30 days)
Single class: 18 €
5-class card: 50 €
12-class card: 108 €

Quick answers:
Do I need Ashtanga experience to try Rocket Yoga? No. Rocket Yoga is specifically designed to be more accessible than traditional Ashtanga. Beginners are welcome and the teacher offers modifications for every posture.
Is Rocket Yoga physically demanding? It is a dynamic practice that builds heat, but the pace is adjustable. You work at your own intensity level and rest when you need to.
What if I cannot do a handstand? That is perfectly fine. Inversions are optional and always offered with modifications. Many practitioners enjoy Rocket Yoga for years without doing a full handstand.

Rocket Yoga practice at Goyoga Tallinn

Rocket Yoga classes at Goyoga Tallinn are taught by Marilyn Jurman from Inbodhi Tallinn, who carries on the direct lineage of Larry Schultz. Marilyn trained under teachers who studied with Larry himself, ensuring that the spirit, methodology, and playful energy of the original Rocket system are authentically transmitted in every class. Her teaching style balances challenge with encouragement, making advanced postures feel approachable for newcomers while still offering depth for experienced practitioners.

A typical Rocket Yoga class at Goyoga Tallinn lasts 75 to 90 minutes. It opens with Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar A and B) to build heat, moves through standing postures, and then transitions into the seated, arm balance, and inversion sequences that define the Rocket approach. The class closes with a guided cool-down and Savasana (final relaxation). Throughout the practice, ujjayi breathing is emphasised to maintain internal heat and focus.

If you already practise Ashtanga Mysore at Goyoga Tallinn, Rocket Yoga offers an exciting complement. Where Mysore practice develops patience and discipline through self-led repetition, Rocket Yoga introduces creative variation and encourages experimentation with postures you might not yet have reached in the traditional series. Many practitioners find that alternating between both styles accelerates their overall progress and keeps their practice inspiring.

Evidence-based benefits of dynamic vinyasa practice

The physical benefits of Rocket Yoga align with research on dynamic vinyasa-style practices. A systematic review published in the International Journal of Yoga found that regular dynamic yoga practice significantly improves muscular strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular endurance. The combination of weight-bearing postures, inversions, and continuous movement creates a comprehensive conditioning effect that rivals traditional resistance training for functional fitness outcomes.

Inversions, a hallmark of Rocket Yoga, have been studied for their effects on the circulatory and lymphatic systems. Research published in the Yoga Journal highlights how inverted postures promote venous return, reduce swelling in the lower extremities, and stimulate the baroreceptor reflex, which may help regulate blood pressure over time. Yoga Alliance recognises dynamic vinyasa styles including Rocket Yoga as effective modalities for building both physical resilience and mental clarity through the integration of breath, movement, and focus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rocket Yoga suitable for beginners who have never practised Ashtanga?

Yes, Rocket Yoga was specifically designed to be more accessible than traditional Ashtanga. Larry Schultz created the system so that practitioners could explore postures freely without needing to master every preceding pose. At Goyoga Tallinn, the teacher offers modifications and progressions for every posture. Whether you are completely new to yoga or transitioning from another style, you will find a comfortable entry point. Start with the Studio Explorer Pass for 29 €, which gives you 3 trial classes to explore different styles.

How is Rocket Yoga different from traditional Ashtanga Yoga?

Traditional Ashtanga follows a fixed sequence where you must demonstrate proficiency in each pose before moving to the next. Rocket Yoga uses the same foundational postures but removes this sequential restriction. You are free to attempt arm balances, inversions, and backbends regardless of where you are in the Primary Series. Rocket also blends elements from both the Primary and Intermediate Series into a single class, giving you a broader experience in each session. The atmosphere tends to be more playful and music is sometimes incorporated.

Who teaches Rocket Yoga at Goyoga Tallinn and what is their background?

Rocket Yoga at Goyoga Tallinn is taught by Marilyn Jurman from Inbodhi Tallinn. Marilyn carries on the direct lineage of Larry Schultz, having trained under teachers who studied with Larry himself. Her classes honour the original Rocket methodology while adapting to each group's needs. She brings warmth, precision, and a deep understanding of anatomy to every session, making advanced postures feel safe and achievable for all levels.

What should I expect in my first Rocket Yoga class?

Your first Rocket Yoga class at Goyoga Tallinn will begin with centering and ujjayi breathing, followed by Sun Salutations to warm the body. You will move through standing postures, seated stretches, arm balances, inversions, and backbends before winding down with a cool-down sequence and Savasana. Expect to sweat and to be offered choices: the teacher will present a base posture and then offer modifications ranging from gentle to advanced. Arrive 10 minutes early, bring water, and wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement.

Can I combine Rocket Yoga with other classes at Goyoga Tallinn?

Absolutely. Many Goyoga Tallinn practitioners combine Rocket Yoga with Ashtanga Mysore for a balanced practice that includes both structured self-practice and creative exploration. Rocket Yoga also pairs well with Yin Yoga for recovery, or with Vinyasa Flow for variety. The Studio Explorer Pass lets you try 3 different classes, so you can discover which combination works best for your body and goals.

Launch your Rocket Yoga practice

Experience the energy and creativity of Rocket Yoga at Goyoga Tallinn. The Studio Explorer Pass (29 €) lets you try 3 different classes. Combine a Rocket Yoga session with an Ashtanga Mysore class and a Yin Yoga session for the full spectrum.

Buy Studio Explorer Pass (29€)

Includes 3 yoga classes of your choice. Valid for 30 days.