First Time Yoga Class Tips

Taking a yoga class for the first time can be exciting and a little intimidating. Perhaps you have not exercised in a while, or maybe even ever. Maybe you're not the most flexible person. Or maybe you've never stepped inside a yoga studio before. There are some basic steps you can take to ensure that your first yoga class won't also be your last.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #1. Remove Your Shoes

It is good form to remove shoes before entering a yoga studio. Not only does this cut down on the amount of street dirt brought onto the studio floor, it is also more respectful of the teacher and of the yoga space.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #2. Introduce yourself to the Instructor

Not only is it polite, it will also put you more at ease to introduce yourself to the yoga instructor. By letting the teacher know that you are new in class, the teacher will know to help you with your form. Also, by introducing yourself to the instructor you have let him or her know that there is a new student in the class, and the instructor will be more likely to be more descriptive, or not skip any important explanations, as they may do with a class of seasoned yoga students.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #3. Discuss Any Health Concerns

If you are pregnant, be sure to tell the instructor. There are certain poses, that you should not do, and others will have some modifications that they can explain.

The same goes for any new yoga students with any type of back, neck or hip injury, or a medical condition. Simply let the instructor know, so he/she can advise you on which poses to skip.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #4. Sit in the front of the class

This is probably the most difficult tip for any student new to yoga, or to any class. By sitting in the front of the class, you will have a clear view of the teacher, and the teacher will have a clear view of you.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #5. Follow the Teacher not the Students

By following the movements of the teacher, rather than other students you will learn better form and be less prone to injury. By focusing your attention on the teacher you will be less likely to do number six.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #6. Do not Compare yourself to Other Students

The yoga student next to you could be someone who has taken yoga for a month, a year or a decade. They may be more flexible than you or in better shape. Do not compare their yogic abilities to yours.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #7. Ignore the mirror during balance poses

When possible, avert your eyes away from any mirrors during any balancing poses. It is easier to keep your balance when you don't see yourself and other students moving in the mirror.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #8. Pain is not Gain

Do not stretch yourself too far during your first sessions of yoga class. Stretch only as far as is physically comfortable.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #9. Take the whole class

Be sure to show up in time for the warm up, stay for the whole class, and stick with it to the end.

First Time Yoga Student Tip #10. Do not skip the meditation

The meditation at the end of class is just as important as the rest of the yoga class. The meditation portion of the yoga class will quiet your mind and body.

By following these basic tips, your first-time yoga class will be enjoyable, and ensure that you will be back for more.