8 Top Tips for Your First Yoga Class

So you’ve finally decided you want to take up yoga, get in shape and bring a little bit of calmness into your life. You’ve decided on which style you want to practice and you’ve researched local yoga classes.

Going to your first yoga class can be a little bit intimidating so I’ve put together 8 top tips for getting yourself fully prepared!

1. Find out what to bring

If your class is at a yoga studio they will probably have all the equipment that you need. If it’s at the local church hall and an independent teacher organises it then they might not have all the equipment for everyone. They might ask you to bring mats and maybe even yoga belts, blocks and bricks so it’s better to find out before.

2. Don’t get too hung up on the clothes

All you need is something comfortable. Just bear in mind that you will do poses like downward dog which means a hoodie or a loose t-shirt are not a good idea. If you don’t believe me then do a test run in these clothes – you will see what I mean. H&M, Fabletics and even Tesco all have great workout clothes but you will find even more online.

3. Don’t wear socks

Unless you’ve got extremely cold feet in which case you can get yourself some ToeSocks, you don’t need socks in a yoga class. They are a hindrance in standing poses and sun salutations so be prepared to show everyone your lovely feet! (I’m just kidding of course – nobody will care about your feet, but you might so do get a pedicure if you are worried)

4. Don’t eat two hours before the class

This is the official line but for me this is impractical and actually impossible. It’s absolutely fine to have snacks before – just don’t have a heavy meal within two hours as you will probably feel it coming back up at some stage!

5. Don’t be late

As a yoga teacher I can say that there is nothing worse than having someone interrupting your class once you’ve started. Especially in the first 10 minutes which is usually about relaxation, turning inwards and focusing on your breathing. So if you want to get off to a good start with your teacher try to be on time.

6. Sit close to the teacher

Your first impulse might be to hide somewhere in a corner and make sure that the teacher doesn’t see you but trust me this won’t do you any favours. Make sure that your mat is somewhere close to the teacher so he or she can help you. Unless you practice Bikram Yoga where beginners are supposed to be at the back so they can watch the “better” students (the teacher doesn’t demonstrate the poses in Bikram) make sure you sit right at the front.

7. Talk to the teacher

Let them know that you’ve never practiced yoga before so they can make sure they give you lots of attention and can help you with the poses. Tell him or her about any injuries and ask them about the class structure. It’s always good to know what to expect from a class i.e. I always start with a breathing exercise and relaxation, then do some standing work, floor work and end with 5-10 minutes of Savasana or final relaxation.

8. Turn off your phone

I don’t think I need to elaborate on this one… It’s basically not very cool if your phone rings in the middle of Savasana!

And of course enjoy and relax

You only get to experience your first yoga class once so make the most of it! Just be open, take it all in and enjoy all the wonderful benefits that come with it. You’ll see you will probably be coming back for your second class very soon!