Before beginning a first yoga class, be sure to speak to the instructor to discuss your level of fitness and familiarity with yoga. Good teachers will approach new students but sometimes an instructor misses spotting a beginner—especially at a drop-in class. Don’t be shy to speak up!
What to Do Before Yoga Class Begins
When first arriving in a yoga class, take off your shoes, coat, and any bulky clothing. Roll up your pant legs to just above the ankle and turn off cellphones or anything that beeps. Quietly enter the yoga studio and find a sticky mat or roll out yours. For your sticky mat, be sure that the bumpy side faces up.
As other students arrive, most will lie quietly on the mats or do introspective poses like child’s pose (balasana). Sitting or lying down comfortably is best for the first class.
Depending on the type of yoga class, expect the teacher to demonstrate and describe the poses during the class. Usually both the Sanskrit name and English name of the asana (word for pose or posture) will be used. The good news is you already know at least one Sanskrit word: the word yoga is taken from the Sanskrit yuj, which means to join. If the class is a Hatha or Iyengar yoga class, some postures like downward dog, upward dog, and warrior poses may already sound and look familiar.
Try not to Talk in Yoga Class
Although the Sex and the City girls chatted their way through yoga class, remaining silent will help focus your mind on the yoga asanas and the instruction from the yoga teacher. As the instructor walks through the room checking the yoga poses of students, it is okay to ask a quick question but save questions that require a long explanation for the end of class.
Don’t Rush through the Yoga Asanas
Advancing in yoga takes years not just a few classes, so take things slowly. By not rushing to follow the instructions a beginner yoga student will benefit from the teacher’s demonstration as well as the other students in class.
Also as you notice what other students are doing in class, focus on your abilities and not those of your neighbor. Everyone starts yoga with widely different levels of strength, stamina, and flexibility. Those who are extremely flexible may not be very strong. Reflect on what your strengths are, and not what the strengths are of others.
Don’t Push Too Hard and Keep Breathing
When a pose feels difficult, remember to breathe: yoga is not painful. The first few classes are an opportunity to absorb a lot of new information about yoga. Pay attention to your body: if a yoga pose causes pain ease off and ask the instructor for guidance.
Stay Positive throughout the Yoga Class
Most importantly, keep an open mind about yoga. Think carefully before saying words like "I can't". Most yoga poses can be modified to a beginner level so remember that the deepest version of the posture is not the only option.
When yoga class is over, thank the teacher and ask any questions about the yoga poses from the class.
Last of all, be sure to take a schedule for the studio in order to book your second yoga class.
