Doing exercises and how it should conform to the Shari’ah.
Q: Asalaamu  Alaikum!!! There are some exercises which poses are similar to that of yoga (not pure yoga) like exercising in position of cobra or baby in which the body and head are laid on floor and stretching of legs and arms moving legs and arms or push ups are done for toning different body parts
But there is not long posing in that position as it is in yoga because one doesn’t remain in that pose for long time as it is practiced in yoga (That is done without facing Sun or any mantra or intention of saluting or bowing it) Is it permissible for Muslims to do these exercises. I practice these exercises in gym and I had doubt regarding them because we lay our head on floor and then raise it and it goes on. And is sitting in position while holding your breath and inhaling exhaling permissible??
A:Wa Alaikum As Salaam,
Based on what you have described of these exercises, then they are permissible once they are not done in front of males. Also, if you are with females, then you should not wear such clothing that reveals the concealable parts of your body, nor should you wear tight fitted clothing which reveals shape and the physique of your body (as is the custom of those who go to the gym).
And Allah Knows Best.
Mufti Waseem Khan.
11/06/15.