When I first tried yoga about 9 years ago I wasn’t sure if it was going to be for me. I wondered if it was going to be too hard to learn, or too slow-paced for me, while at the same time I questioned whether or not it would even be a good workout.
The thing is, I wasn’t really a ‘group exercise person” and more drawn to doing my own thing at the gym or running outside. I wondered about the benefits and didn’t even know what kind of gear I needed to purchase if any. In other words, I had a lot of questions!
Everyone Is A Yoga Newbie At One Point
Remember, everyone is new to it in the beginning and you’ll never know if it’s a good fit for you if you don’t try.
If this sounds familiar, you’re in the right place! I created a list of frequently asked questions from yoga newbies that may steer you in the right direction and alleviate any nervousness you may have about starting yoga.
Maybe you think that you’re too old to try it… or too big… or not flexible enough..or too (insert variable here). Maybe you think it cannot possibly be a good workout, or conversely that yoga is going to be too hard!
Whatever your concerns are, I believe that stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new is a fantastic opportunity for personal growth. And you may just learn something new about yourself in the process.
And as in most things in life knowledge is power. Being prepared is half the battle and I hope you do decide that yoga is right for you and fall in love with it like I did.
As a matter of fact, I got into it so much that I converted our loft into an at-home yoga room! I do love going to classes but have found some great free online resources for my at-home practice. I’ve recently discovered The Yoga Girl online, but my absolute favorite is Yoga With Adriene. She has an amazing authentic personality that really shines through and can guide even the newest yoga newbie through a yoga flow.
So, armed with my list of FAQs, I turned to my friend Rebecca Jacobs, who is a certified yoga instructor in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada. I knew she would have some great advice for aspiring yogis/yoginis and she was kind enough to share her tips with me for this post.
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Yoga Newbie FAQ’s
1. What do I need to bring to a yoga class?
Bring your own small towel, water bottle, and your own yoga mat if you have one. If you want to rent or use a mat at the studio, I’d call ahead and make sure this is a service the studio offers. Generally, most classes will provide straps and yoga blocks.
2. What should I wear?
Wear comfy clothing you can move in.
For example, ladies might wear a tank top with a built-in bra, and tights or jogging pants. A regular T-shirt would be fine too, but nothing too baggy and untucked as it may slide up your body and be cumbersome in inverted poses like downward dog.
Also, if you are going to an unheated class, it may be a good idea to wear layers on top.
Most yoga classes end with savasana, final resting pose, and its nice to have a light sweater to put on so that you’ll stay warm. Barefeet is recommended for class but you might want to have socks to put on for savasana.
3. Can I eat before yoga?
I wouldn’t recommend eating right before a yoga class. Something small like a banana or a small yogurt to keep your energy up sure, but avoid anything large or heavy.
4. I have no clue where to start! Would you recommend private lessons or learning online?
If you feel more comfortable you absolutely could either do private classes or look up classes online but it’s totally NOT necessary. It’s a yoga practice not yoga perfect!
Whether it’s your first or hundredth time on your mat, each time is an opportunity to learn.
5. Some people may believe they are too overweight, out of shape or not flexible enough to do yoga. What would you say to them?
Well, I would say you have to start somewhere! Yoga is a great way to get in shape and become more flexible.
Also though, yoga is for EVERY BODY.
If need be, every pose can be modified to make it accessible. Personally I use yoga blocks every practice so I can find my fullest expression.
6. Am I too old to start doing yoga?
Absolutely not! Really, you can never be too old to start yoga!
7. Is yoga actually a good workout? Can it help me lose weight?
Yoga can definitely be a good workout. Like any form of exercise, you will only get out of it what you’re willing to put in.
8. I’m not really into group exercise. Are yoga classes different than say, going to a cardio class?
When you’re on the mat, you are in your own little space. Yes, it is a group setting but each student is usually focused on their own practice. It’s like being alone together.
Of course, you may have to try different classes and/or different studios to find the right fit. Not all studios offer the same style of yoga it’s just a matter of finding the one that is right for you.
9. How often should a person do yoga?
I love the practice of yoga so I’m all about as often as you can fit into your schedule!
If you are doing it at home, mix it up with longer and shorter practices. Even if you are sore from the previous day’s routine, doing a 20-minute flow with some gentle stretching will be beneficial.
10. Do I need to be a spiritual or “new-agie” person to do yoga?
LOL! NO!! Yoga is for every gender, age group, ethnicity, race, body type, religion, etc.
But you may be surprised, that once you start practicing regularly, you may start to feel a little “new-agie” as you get better at tuning out the noise from the outside world and listening to your breath.
It’s not as hard as you might think but honestly, even if you think that won’t happen for you, don’t let that hold you back from trying yoga.
11. What if I’m pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Is it safe for me to do yoga?
Always check with your doctor and always listen to your own body!
There are certain poses that should not be done especially later in pregnancy, and a qualified instructor can show you modifications.
If you aren’t sure about a certain pose, you can always skip it or get back into child’s pose. Remember it’s YOUR practice.
12. Is “Bikram” or hot yoga better than regular?
My favourite is to practice in a hot room, but it’s not for everybody. Sometimes it’s a health concern, sometimes people just straight up don’t like it.
Yoga in a hot room though can be a great experience. I always suggest people try it because chances are it is totally different than what you expect.
Class Etiquette
What do I need to know about yoga class etiquette?
- Try and arrive at least 10 minutes before class begins. This way you can situate yourself in the room, get blocks and a strap if you need it and settle into the space.
- If you do happen to arrive a few minutes late, just slip in quietly and take the first space available to you.
- If you need to leave early and you have a chance, mention it to the instructor, and leave BEFORE savasana begins.
- Avoid strong scents whether it be perfume or body odour.
- If you are going to take on any pose that has the potential for you to fall out of it,(handstands, headstands), make sure if you were to fall out of it, you don’t take anybody else down with you.
Final Thoughts
Remember that yoga is all about the journey.
When you try yoga for the first time, go in with an open mind and let yourself have fun. If you take yourself Uber seriously, you can’t possibly enjoy the class.
In other words, it isn’t about winning or getting it right. It’s about slowing down, getting present in the here and now, feeling your body in space and maybe even learn a thing or two about yourself.
When you try any studio, really give it a chance. Take a few classes, get to know the instructors, find out the vibe at the studio and see if it is the right fit for you. If not, try another. All studios are different and have different things to offer.
About Rebecca
I started my own yoga journey 6 years ago at Soul Fire Power Yoga. One class and I was hooked. It was hot, sweaty, and left me feeling lighter than when I came in. I often like to describe this practice as a moving meditation. Two years after that I was getting my teaching certification.
Yoga has changed how I see myself and how I interact with my world around me.
It has helped me learn how to treat myself with grace and compassion. I teach in hopes that those in my classes leave lighter than when they came in.
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