Tips Before Your First Yoga Class

  • 13 May - 19 May, 2023
  • Mag The Weekly
  • FITNESS

When you first start practising yoga, you probably have a lot of questions about what to expect, what to wear, what to bring to class, and how to get ready. You'll feel more at ease at your first class if you are aware of what to expect and how things work in advance. Before your first flow, you should be aware of the following.

How to Dress

While it might appear that you must dress in designer yoga attire before attending a class, nothing could be further from the truth. Wear something you already own to your first few classes, and try to keep things as straightforward as possible. Here are some pointers:

Shoes

Yoga is most frequently practised without shoes. Sometimes you'll find folks without shoes or socks, but that's usually because of an illness or injury. If taking off your shoes in front of strangers makes you really uncomfortable, make a compromise by wearing yoga socks. These particular socks contain non-slip grips on the bottom that "grab" the mat in order to stop your feet from slipping.

Pants

Yoga pants come in a wide variety of designs, so you don't need to rush out and buy a specific pair before your first session. You can wear any relaxed exercise shorts or trousers, but avoid non-stretch fabrics like jeans.

You might determine after a few courses that you require trousers that are shorter, longer, looser, higher waisted or that don't fall down as you stretch. It would be wise to shop at that time. You have two options: stick to big box stores with athletic clothing lines like Target or Walmart, or look for shops that cater primarily to the yoga market.

Tops

Yoga is best done in a somewhat fitting shirt. Big, baggy t-shirts aren't ideal since they'll slide down whenever you bend over, and you'll be bending over a lot. The same goes for loose-fitting workout shirts. Tops with no sleeves are common because they provide the shoulders and arms room to move. Wear the type of bra you prefer when working out. It's possible that you'll require a more supportive sports bra for fast-paced classes.

Gear for Hot Yoga

There are certain particular things to think about if you plan to do hot yoga or Bikram. Cotton clothing and long shirts or trousers aren't appropriate because classes are held in a heated environment; they trap sweat and keep your heat close to your body. To make the practise easier, it's a good idea to wear shorts and clothing that wicks away moisture. For more thorough professional recommendations, check out our hot yoga clothing section.

What to Pack

For the most part, all you really need to bring to your first session is a good attitude and an open mind. Of course, you can expand your yoga accessory collection over time with a tonne of fun items, but start modest and keep things straightforward.

Mat

If you're headed to your very first class, don't worry about bringing a mat if you don't have one. Most yoga venues rent mats for a dollar or two. As you keep going to class, or if you're practicing at home, you're going to want to invest in your own mat.

Water Bottle

If you are going to hot yoga, make sure you bring water with you. For other types of yoga, you can wait until after class to get a drink.

Towel

If you tend to sweat a lot, or you're trying out hot yoga, bring a hand towel with you to class.

Props

Unless you'll be practicing exclusively at home, it's not necessary to have your own props. Studios provide blocks, blankets, and straps. Your teacher will tell you which props are needed for each class, but if she doesn't, grab a block and a strap anyway, just in case you need an assist to get into a pose.

How to Prepare

The beauty of yoga is that it requires very little other than your own body. Preparation is simple, but if you're new, it's always a good idea to get to class a little early to help acclimate yourself to the environment and introduce yourself to the instructor. Here are a few other tips to keep in mind:

• Familiarise Yourself With Beginner-Friendly Poses

• Avoid Heavy Meals Prior to Class

• Touch Base With the Instructor

• Get Warmed Up If You're Early

RELATED POST

COMMENTS