Anyone that is new to yoga is going to have lots of questions about the practice. They want to know what to wear, what to take to a class, and how to best prepare themselves. Here are 5 things to consider when starting yoga classes.
Studio Classes or Video Classes?
In general, it’s always a good idea for beginners to go to a studio and receive in-person instruction. Instructors are able to provide personalized feedback and can provide suggestions on how to modify poses. This kind of help isn’t possible through a video platform. This does mean having to pay a little more for your class though, but that extra cost is worth it for beginners.
Of course, video-based classes are still an acceptable choice if you aren’t able to find a studio near you or you aren’t available at the times classes are on. Don’t let not being able to get to class on time prevent you from starting yoga. Just remember to find real videos from real experts that are tailored to beginners.
What to Wear?
Don’t worry too much about buying professional yoga gear. Here are some tips on what to wear to yoga classes;
Shoes
In general, yoga is done bare-footed. If you aren’t comfortable going barefoot, then there are yoga socks that you can buy. They have special grips on them that prevent slipping on the mat.
Pants
There are plenty of different yoga pants, but any comfortable exercise pants and shorts will do for yoga. You might decide that you need different pants – such as shorter or longer pants – after some classes. That’s when you can go out and purchase proper yoga pants that suit your needs.
Tops
Lightly-fitted tops are best for yoga. Sleeveless tops are another good choice because of their freedom of movement. Keep an eye out for something you feel comfortable moving around in and you’ll be on the right track.
What to Bring?
The only thing you really need to take to your first yoga class is a good positive attitude and an open mind. There are some other things to take too, but you should start out small and keep things simple.
Don’t worry too much about taking a yoga mat to your first class. Most studios will have them available for rent if you need one. If you are going to work out at home though, then, of course, you should get a good supportive mat.
A water bottle and a towel can help too if you are doing hot yoga or expect you might sweat a lot or get thirsty when working out. Don’t forget that yoga is, at the end of the day, a form of exercise.
How to Prepare for Yoga Classes?
One of the best things about yoga is that it takes barely any preparation. All you need is your body. Of course, it’s always worth turning up a little early to better acclimate yourself to the environment and meet your instructor.
Take some time to become familiar with beginner-friendly poses and touch base with your instructor. Let them know if you are a complete beginner so they know to keep an eye on you and offer appropriate advice and cues.
Avoid eating too much before class. Yoga is exercise and heavy meals should be avoided before any kind of exercise. You can feel sick when everything starts moving around inside you. It’s fine to have a light snack a few hours before class but save full meals until afterwards.
What’s the Yoga Class Etiquette?
Common courtesy and sense are always the cornerstones of good etiquette no matter what you do. Throw in some respect for the people and places around you and a bit of kindness and you’ve got the basics of yoga class etiquette.
Some things to keep in mind are that you should make sure to arrive on time and silence your cell phone. Respect the mat space of others and respect your teacher too.
The Power of Yoga
Yoga is a great tool for keeping fit, improving balance and flexibility, and getting in touch with the world around you. There are several things for beginners to consider, such as the equipment and etiquette, but a good bit of common sense should be all you need to make it through a class or two.