Top tips for your first yoga class
Signed up for your first yoga class? Well done! Yoga is a wonderful way to move your body and improve your mental wellbeing, in a relaxing and low impact activity. However, we know trying out something new can be both exhilarating and sometimes a little overwhelming, that is why we have put together a few tips that will hopefully help you feel less nervous on your first class:
Before arriving at the studio
Research
Make sure you have a general idea of the class you are walking into. There are several kinds of yoga (read more about them here) so try and pick one that matches what you are after, e.g. if you are after a structured workout Ashtanga or Hot yoga are your best bet, whilst something more gentle and relaxing is iyengar or hatha yoga. If you are completely new to yoga we advise you to try a beginners class first, as the teacher will be able to guide you through the poses assuming you are new to yoga.
Wear whatever feels comfortable
This could be leggings, shorts or loose yoga pants for bottoms, as well as a comfortable top - you want to be able to move freely, without worrying about whether your bottoms are sliding off, or your top making you too warm. Yoga is also traditionally practiced barefoot, but if you are not keen on bare feet, you can always wear yoga socks. Studios will have changing rooms so you can always bring your clothes with you and change there.
Take a water bottle and avoid a big meal beforehand
Hydration is important! Whilst people initially think that yoga is not going to be very physically demanding, you should have some water available at all times. Avoiding a big meal beforehand is also a good idea, as you will be turning in different ways and would like to be as comfortable as possible, especially in poses such as downward dog.
In the studio:
Arrive early and turn off your phone
Make sure you arrive with a little extra time to spare, that will allow you to fill out any paperwork needed or ask about introductory discounts. It will also let you find the best spot in the class for you. Please also turn off your phone! No one wants to hear your ringtone going during tree pose.
Speak to the teacher
Make sure to let the instructor know at the beginning of the lesson that you’re new, that way they will keep a closer eye on you and intervene if necessary. They will also ask about any injuries or anything they should know about before the lesson starts.
Find the right spot in the studio
Probably something not many think of, but if you are new to yoga, or to a specific class, we always advise to go for the middle row, to one side. That way you can have someone to copy from in the row in front of you (just in case you don't understand the pose) and someone behind you, so you have the same option for when you do poses facing the back wall
Tools are there to help you
Don’t feel self conscious for picking up a block or a strap, they are tools that can easily improve your practice. Ask your teacher at the start of the lesson what she would recommend, but a strap (for wider range of motion), a block (for balance and support) and a blanket are always good ideas.
Let your mind quiet and your body flow
Try to focus exclusively on the movement, on your breathing and in the moment. Feel every muscle stretching and any tension releasing. Most importantly, let yourself go and enjoy it!
Our last tip: Whilst you really don’t need anything other than your body and a bottle of water for your first classes, it might be a good idea to eventually look at getting your own mat (let’s face it, those shared mats can be a bit icky) that fits your practice, particularly if you want to practice at home! Consider a moisture-activated grip feature if you sweat a bit during your practice (like our Pro mats), or simply a mat that grips from the moment you roll it out (like our Onyx mats). There are also a lot of chemicals in standard yoga mats, so make sure you do your research and find the mat that best works for you!
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