Taking up yoga as part of your fitness routine can be a great way to improve your flexibility, strength, and circulation. Furthermore, many people find yoga to be very calming, providing a great outlet for those with high stress or anxiety levels.
Before you attend your first yoga class, however, there are some tips you’ll want to keep in mind for a more enjoyable experience.
1. Know What You Signed Up For
First of all, acknowledge your level of experience with yoga. If you’ve never done it before, don’t set yourself up for more than you can handle by signing up for an advanced class. Instead, look for beginner’s classes in your area. Choosing a class that caters to your level of experience will make for a much more enjoyable time.
2. Don’t Eat a Large Meal Before Class
You’re going to be bending and contorting your body in all kinds of interesting ways, so it helps to arrive on a (mostly) empty stomach. Otherwise, you could end up feeling discomfort during your poses. Most instructors advise that you avoid any heavy meals an hour before class. However, if you feel like you need something to power you through class, consider eating a small but filling snack, such as a banana.
3. Bring (And Wear) the Right Gear
Find out through your yoga instructor what gear you’ll be expected to bring. Some classes will require students to bring their own yoga mats and other gear, whereas others will provide them. Either way, make sure you’re wearing the right attire for a comforable yoga class; sticking to tigher-fitting clothing is ideal for most yoga poses.
4. Don’t Get Discouraged
More than likely, there are going to be poses you can’t quite pull off just yet—and that’s okay! Don’t get discouraged. If a pose is too much for you to handle, slip into a pose you’re comfortable with, such as child’s pose, until it’s time to move on.
5. Consider Speaking With the Instructor
If you’re nervous about trying yoga for the first time, don’t hesitate to speak with the instructor before class. He or she may provide you with extra guidance to make your experience more enjoyable and help you learn the ropes.
By keeping these tips in mind before your first yoga class, you’ll be in great shape. Have fun with it!
