First of all, thank you for sharing this so honestly β what youβre experiencing is very normal, and youβre definitely not βout of shape.β
Let me gently clear the confusion.
About the numbers you see onlineβ¦β¦
There is no single βcorrectβ number of Sun Salutations for everyone. Practices like 108 rounds are ritualistic and advanced, usually done on special occasions by seasoned practitioners. They are not a starting point and not a daily benchmark.
Is 5 rounds enough?
Absolutely yes. For a beginner, 3β6 slow, mindful rounds done with good breathing and alignment are far more beneficial than forcing higher numbers. Shaking arms simply mean your muscles are waking up and learning to support your body weight β thatβs progress, not failure.
How many should a beginner do?
Start with 4β6 rounds at a comfortable pace
Focus on breath, form, and smooth transitions
Rest whenever you need β pausing is part of the practice
Should you increase every day?
No need to rush. Stay with the same number for 1β2 weeks, and only increase when your body feels ready. Even adding one extra round is enough progression.
Will you still get benefits with fewer rounds?
Yes β youβll build strength, flexibility, circulation, and mental clarity even with a small number, as long as youβre consistent and attentive. Yoga is not about exhaustion; itβs about intelligent effort.
A gentle suggestionβ¦.
Some days your body may want fewer rounds, and thatβs okay. Yoga is about listening, not pushing.
Youβre doing beautifully by simply showing up each morning. Consistency and kindness toward your body matter far more than numbers.