Yoga for beginners: What to expect and how to prepare for your first yoga class

You may have been thinking about trying yoga for a while. But perhaps you’ve been unsure of how to start. You’re here on this site to find out more. So congratulations, you’ve already taken the first step!

From my own experience, I know that going to a yoga class as a beginner can be awkward. I still remember feeling like the odd one out and disliking every bit of it until we did the well-deserved final relaxation (savasana).

If this sounds like it might be you or you simply don’t know where to start, you might find some of the following tips helpful.

Find the right studio & yoga style

Begin researching the different studios and yoga styles in your area. Typing ‘yoga’ into your Google Maps is a good way to start. There will be a plethora of studios, gyms, styles and teachers available. Take your time to find out which class or style might be right for you.

For most beginners, a Hatha or Beginners class will be most appropriate. However, if you’re recovering from injury, you might want to try a Restorative class to begin with. If you’re in transition to motherhood, you might want to try a prenatal yoga class.

Most studios offer a discounted introductory yoga class pass. Check out as many facilities, styles and teachers as you’d like to find the right yoga for you!

Before the class

• Wear comfortable, breathable clothing. Most studios have yoga mats and yoga props (e.g. bolsters, blankets, blocks) available. Depending on the level of the class you might also want to bring a small towel.
• Arrive at least 10 minutes early to register, familiarise yourself with the studio, settle in and have a chat with the teacher (see point 3).
• Don’t eat anything 45 minutes prior to the class and avoid heavy meals 2 hours prior to the class (the first time you will be in your forward fold or lying on your belly you will know why this is helpful).
• Avoid using strong fragrances prior the class.
• Switch your phone and any alarms off. This is your time – no need for mobile phones.

Talk to your teacher

Most teachers will ask you whether you have any injuries or health conditions. If they don’t, please approach your teacher and let them know what you need special assistance with.

I know it’s not always easy to talk about injuries and/or health conditions with someone you’re not familiar with and that’s okay. However, your teacher has a duty of care and will need to have a broad understanding of your health to design a practice that is safe and beneficial for you. So, don’t be shy.

Be open-minded

Showing up on your yoga mat for the first time can be intimidating. You will learn and try things you have never done before, some of which may seem completely weird to you – and that’s okay.

Don’t have any expectations and just try to stay open-minded. Showing up in the room and staying for the entire class will be a huge achievement for your first yoga practice.

Don’t push yourself & be patient

Creating a non-judgemental and non-competitive space around yourself will be one of the hardest things you face. Don’t push yourself to achieve anything in a hurry. Things will come over time as your practice evolves and as your body and mind relax into the rhythms of yoga. Remember – sometimes just showing up is enough.

We hope it goes well, but please contact us here if you have any other questions.