MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif -- The first step - set the mood.

Scott Sutherland, a yoga instructor with Semper Fit here, turns off the lights and turns on soft, relaxing music in preparation for the hourlong “sweaty yoga” class he leads ever Tuesday at the Semper Fit Center.

Everyone from the air station community with access to the Semper Fit Center can participate in Sutherland’s classes and add a workout designed to stretch and strengthen their muscles.

“Yoga combines strength, balance, flexibility, and composure,” said Sutherland, the instructor of the class. “You combine all those elements and you detoxify your organs and muscles.”

Sutherland suggests yoga as a tool for striking a balance between high intensity, high impact physical training and overall muscular flexibility and health.

Some forms of exercise can actually shorten muscles and reduce flexibility, according to Sutherland. Yoga can counteract this.

“Yoga helps with muscle recovery, increases range of motion, and helps prevent injury,” said Eric Ramirez, fitness coordinator with Semper Fit here.

Class begins with long, slow poses that stretch the muscles. Movements progress to poses that development balnance and strenght.

Sgt. Jeff Brasfield, a recent class participant, explained that he attended the class because his physical therapist recommended it and he really enjoys the class.

Tonya Wagers, a physical therapist with Adjust Physical Therapy in San Diego, agrees with Brasfield’s therapist.

“It helps gain flexibility and strength,” said Wagers. “I recommend it to my patients.”

Sutherland and the Semper Fit trainers also see yoga as an optimal choice for those working back into a regular physical fitness program.

“After having a baby, I came to the class for more flexibility and to improve my physical fitness test,” said Cpl. Diana Pereda, a participant in the class.

Sutherland ends each class drenched in sweat and a sense of accomplishment.

“I really love teaching the class,” said Sutherland. “It’s great to see the variety of people in the class. Every day I look forward to seeing how many more people will show up,” added the instructor.

For more information on the yoga classes which take place Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:30 a.m. at the Semper Fit Center, contact the center at 858-577-4654.