If only we knew then what we know now about yoga! This is how every “expert” feels about their first few times on the mat. The truth is that it’s perfectly normal to have first-time jitters with yoga. After all, pros make it seem so elegant and seamless. Having a few insider tricks can help to set up realistic expectations. It may also help you make the most of your inaugural session. Here are the four things to know before your first yoga class:
1. Perfection Isn’t Required
You don’t have to do every pose right. You don’t even have to do every pose. When you’re learning yoga, it’s perfectly acceptable to skip poses that are either too challenging or cause discomfort. There’s plenty of time to get it right as you move forward. The default is to simply wait it out in a rest pose until you can rejoin the class with the next pose that feels right to you. Your instructor will also be more than happy to provide you with modifications.
2. The Next Morning Might Hurt
While yoga is extremely gentle compared to other workouts, you’re going to be using muscles you probably didn’t even know you had during your first session. Pain the next morning is not a sign that you did things wrong. Feeling sore is normal. Most people snap back with a little bit of rest. However, pain that’s centralized in ligaments or joints could indicate an actual injury.
3. What You Wear Matters
It’s no coincidence that yoga clothing is such a major market. We aren’t just being “trendy” by obsessing over yoga clothes. This is one activity where comfort and “breathability” are important. Don’t rush out to buy all new gear just yet! You probably have plenty of things at home you can wear. Here’s a quick cheat sheet for how to dress for your first yoga class:
- Feet: Yoga is a barefoot sport! Wearing yoga socks is totally acceptable if you feel more comfortable hiding your toes.
- Pants: Any type of leggings or “yoga” pants will do. Avoid long pants that could cause your heel to get caught as you move into poses. Above the ankle is preferred. Additionally, skip anything with buttons that will dig into you as you move.
- Tops: Generally, fitted tops and tank tops work best because you don’t have to worry about the fabric flipping over every time you bend your body. Special yoga tops and sports bras offer the most freedom. In general, you’ll want a supportive bra to wear under your shirt.
- Extra Gear: Show up to class with a mat and water bottle. Many people also like to bring little “sweat towels” they can use to dab away perspiration.
If you’re doing hot yoga, avoid cotton and other heavy materials. You might also want to swap pants or leggings for shorts. Finally, moisture-wicking fabric that prevents sweat from weighing you down is highly recommended if you do decide to purchase new yoga clothing.
4. Not Every Class Is for Beginners
It’s common for people to sign up for “any class” they see advertised without realizing that they’ve just paid for an advanced class. This can be a waste of your time and money because you won’t be able to keep up. It can be very discouraging. Make sure you’re signing up with a local yoga studio that caters to beginners. Ignite Yoga of Dayton is currently offering a New Student Special that gives you 30 days of unlimited yoga for just $40. Come discover if yoga is for you in a fun, encouraging atmosphere.
