Yoga can be intimidating to start, but once you do it, you will see why many have added it in their workouts and maybe you can too. We’ve listed down a quick guide and asked one of our favourite yoga teachers, Leslie (@inflexible_yogini) for tips on how to prepare for your first yoga class.
Choose a yoga style
There are different approaches to yoga that vary in intensity, focus, and format – with some that are more beginner-friendly than the others. A good place to start is picking a style that will introduce you to common physical postures, simple breathing, and relaxation techniques.
Try taking several beginner classes to see which type of yoga suits you best and which instructor matches your fitness needs.
Here are some of the most popular and common types of yoga that are great for beginners:
- Hatha – Often called as best yoga practice for beginners, this yoga type helps in understanding body mechanics and drives energy in specific directions.
- Vinyasa or Flow– This is a style of yoga that involves seamlessly stringing together postures and poses and syncing that movement with your breath. Whether slow or fast-paced, expect to move from pose to pose in a vinyasa class.
- Power yoga - Power yoga is an active and athletic, contemporary style of yoga, with classes emphasising on building strength and endurance. This style is perfect for those who seek an active, sporty style of yoga.
“Contrary to what we see in social media, yoga doesn’t have to look pretty or perfect. Yoga is for everyone, and you don’t need to be flexible to practice yoga. Just do the option or modification that is suitable for you. As long as you’re feeling everything in the right places and you’re not injuring yourself, that’s more than enough. At the end of the day, this is your own journey, your own practice. You will progress at your own pace.”, says Leslie.
What to bring
When attending a yoga class, bring the three essentials: a water bottle (for hydration), small towel (for sweat), and mat (on which you’ll perform your poses) – some places may have yoga mats for rent, or may lend you one for the class.
What to wear
When dressing for class, opt for something comfortable and form-fitting, nothing that would restrict your movements.
It should also absorb sweat well and allow you to move, stretch, and breathe with ease. Leggings, sports bra, and a light, comfortable T-shirt or tank top are good options. You don’t need special shoes as yoga is performed barefoot. Always aim for comfort and practicality in your outfit.
Don’t stress it out
Don’t feel pressured to perform every pose perfectly at your first class. Most of the students in your class may have been practicing for years. Even if you feel insecure, the best thing you can do is to always listen to your teacher and follow the instructions. Repetition and consistency are the keys to moving forward.
“The truth is, everyone is different. Some poses might be easy for some but are hard for others, and some people are naturally flexible,” added Leslie. "Practicing yoga helps us embrace our imperfections, to be kind to our bodies, and work on ourselves which no one but us can see. So step on the mat without judgment and expectation. Do it with an open heart, awareness, and patience."