Getting In To Yoga: What You Should Expect Your First Time

For those who have never taken a yoga class before, trust me I know it can be a more intimating workout.  Not because of the people coming out of the classes sweating and keeled over, but because it’s a different workout that many don’t know what to expect from.  I was in you’re position before though, and being a more athletic boxer build, it’s an exercise that I was convinced I would never be good at.  But please first read this and then really rethink signing up for a class…it’ll be worth it!

Before taking your first yoga class, it's important to know what to expect. While most people are familiar with the basic principles of yoga, many aren't sure what a typical class entails, or how they should prepare. With these basic tips, you'll begin your first yoga class with confidence, knowledge and excitement!

Different Kinds of Yoga
There are several different types of yoga, the most well-known being hatha yoga. Hatha yoga is typically recommended for beginners, as other forms utilize basic hatha principles, but add other elements.

Bikram yoga, sometimes referred to as "hot yoga," takes place in an environment that has been heated to approximately 105 degrees. Although beginners can excel at bikram, it's good to get a basic knowledge of yoga before attempting poses at such high temperatures. Likewise, individuals with breathing difficulties and other health problems should take caution when attempting bikram yoga.

Ashtanga yoga focuses more on breathing and the flow of movements rather than on the actual poses. Though not as popular as hatha and bikram, ashtanga yoga provides many physical and mental benefits, including calming the mind and increasing balance.

What to Expect
Most yoga instructors begin class with a warmup of some kind. This can include simple poses, as well as meditation and reflection. Next, he or she will lead the class in a series of poses, which are performed in a sequence that has been designed for optimum benefits.

If you're concerned about not being able to perform some of the more advanced poses, don't worry: most poses have varying degrees of difficulty, and can be easily modified for beginners. Often, the instructor or an assistant will show examples of modified poses.

What to Wear
Loose, comfortable clothing is usually best when practicing most forms of yoga. yoga. You'll be stretching and bending quite a bit, and tight or constrictive clothes may hinder your movement, which could make your workout less successful.

Hot yoga, on the other hand, is a different story. Because of the heat and humidity involved in a hot yoga session, it's usually best to keep clothing to a minimum. For these types of classes, shorts and tank tops are the best clothing options.

What to Bring
Prior to your first class, you'll probably want to purchase your own yoga mat. Many gyms and yoga studios have mats you can use, but, with all the sweating involved, it's better to have your own. You should also bring a water bottle, a towel and a change of clothes. It isn't recommended to bring an mp3 to yoga class, as you'll need to hear the instructor when it's time to change poses.

Yoga is one of the most popular workouts in the world. Now that you're ready for your first class, you, too, can enjoy the many benefits yoga has to offer! 


Here's a short video that I found from http://yogatothepeople.com.  It will show you a basic flow pattern: