Have you ever wanted to start doing yoga but weren’t sure where to begin? Does the thought of trying a yoga class sound appealing but at the same time intimidate you? Do you ask yourself, “What are all the types of yoga classes I see?” Or, “How do I know which yoga studio is best for me?”
I have good news for you, yoga is for anyone and everyone willing to try. Yoga does not judge you for where you are in your journey, whether you are a brand new beginner or long time practitioner. Yoga accepts those who are willing to try new things, expand their horizons, and uncover what the amazing benefits of yoga truly are, as many before them have witnessed.
Yoga is a practice. An ever-evolving perspective. A moving meditation. Yoga connects and expands our thinking. Yoga, is a beautiful addition to any mind, body, or spiritual journey.
So, do you want to see what all the hype is about? Are you ready to step into an enlightening journey? I’m here to guide you through exactly how to prepare for your first class and what to expect when you get there. Below you’ll find the ultimate guide on to how to start doing yoga as a beginner.
The Ultimate Guide to Start Doing Yoga
Find a yoga studio
Use apps like Mindbody, Google Maps, Yelp, or Vagaro to search and find a few studios in your area. Pick a few that you know you can get to conveniently.
Additionally, look at the schedule to make sure they have class times that work for you. A yoga studio that only has class times at 8AM when you are at work, is obviously not a fit.
If you’re still not sure, ask around – coworkers, neighbors, friends, family, or people who are walking with a yoga mat often have recommendations if you can’t find anything.
Search for a free trial
Check Groupon, Living Social, the internet. They usually have good introductory rates for new students. Also, search the website of your target yoga studio for introductory rates for new students or inquire with the business directly.
Go to a beginner class
Once you’ve decided on a studio, be sure to read their class descriptions. Look for a beginner class or all levels class (usually level 1), and find a time that you can attend.
If you aren’t sure or it’s not clear by their website which classes are beginner, don’t be afraid to call the studio and ask.
It’s important to start in a beginner class because the advance classes assume you know the lingo. If you don’t know what a sun salutation, vinyasa flow, or savasana is, you aren’t ready for level 2.
Preparing for your first class
Related: 9 yoga and gym essentials I can’t live without
First things first, you’ll need a yoga mat. No need to go buy the most expensive mat you can find. A $30 mat will do the trick when you are first starting out. If it’s a heated class, even slightly heated, or if it’s hot outside, you are going to sweat. A small towel will come in handy. Hydration is crucial. As yoga is a physical activity, don’t forget a bottle of water, otherwise, you may find yourself parched and overheated.
Lastly, your body will move and stretch in ways you probably haven’t moved before. You’ll need comfortable, stretchy clothes that can move with you. I personally love the new Target JoyLab line. They have some great affordable options in fun, flattering designs.
What to expect in your first class
After you found your studio, picked a beginner class, and acquired your gear, you are ready to attend your first yoga class. Once you check into your class, tell the teacher it’s your first time. Remove your shoes and put any belongings in a locker or other designated area, head into the studio with your mat, water bottle, and towel in tow.
Be mindful if the studio is considered a quiet space because some might be meditating before class. Lay your mat down and place your towel and water near you. The space is usually limited in a yoga studio, therefore, be mindful how much space you are taking up.
Don’t walk on other people’s mats. This causes a spread of germs where people put their face. Ehhm gross. The only exception would be if the studio is so packed, you have nowhere else to walk.
As you wait for class to start, feel free to stretch out a bit. For pre-class meditation, go into Balasana (child’s pose), sukhasana (seated pose), or savasana (dead man’s pose) while you are waiting for instruction from the teacher. Or simply look around at what others are doing and do that.
The teacher might tell you to grab blocks or a strap, don’t be disruptive, grab these before the start of class. Most studios provide blocks and straps complimentary.
During class
As you follow along with what the teacher is saying, it’s okay if you don’t understand what she is asking you to do. A good teacher will give verbal cues, visual demonstration, and hands-on adjustments for a well-rounded description.
If you aren’t quite sure what you are doing is what is being asked, that’s completely normal. When in doubt, do what others do. If you’ve told your teacher it’s your first time, it’s likely he will know to give you additional instruction where needed.
Congratulations you have completed your first class!
If you took the leap and jumped in to a class for the first time let me know how it went in the comments below. If you still have further questions, feel free to email me at shay@thebodybulletin.com
