I first stepped into a yoga class (at a London gym I attended as a university student) over ten years ago and I still remember how nervous I was… But I loved my first yoga class. Partly because it reawakened the teenage gymnast I had been, and I loved the teacher’s gentle energy and that we practiced barefoot. But I know my experience is not everyone’s. Most of my yoga students tell me that their first yoga class experience was…not ideal. For many, it actually put them off of practicing for many years and definitely didn’t leave them wanting to go back or delve deeper into yoga.

Here’s how to make your first yoga experience a really positive one. And for those of you currently unable to practice in-person, these tips work for Zoom yoga classes too! 

Group or Private Class?

If you have never done yoga before, a private (one to one) class can be a really great way of learning the poses at your own pace. Your teacher can tailor the practice to your fitness, your flexibility, your goals and be mindful of any injuries you have. I love teaching private classes for beginners and really breaking down the poses and techniques in a way that a group class may not.

If you’d rather learn yoga in a group, then find a studio which offers a beginners class or a “gentle flow”. Some studios offer courses for those new to yoga which would be an amazing way to start your practice. Group classes are more affordable and it can feel more motivating to practice with others, even if it’s via Zoom! 

I do think that there is sometimes an issue at yoga studios where beginners and non-yogis aren’t really catered for. Yoga classes at gyms are often more “all levels” and beginner-friendly than those at yoga studios. If you’re not sure, call or pop in to the studio to ask them about their classes – it’s also a great way to feel out the energy of the studio and whether you like the vibe of the place.

Picking Your Teacher

When I first started yoga, I picked classes based on what time I was free. Now, I definitely do pay attention to who is teaching. As a beginner, it’s important to find a teacher that you can relate to. Check out their studio profile, Instagram or website to get a feel of a teacher’s vibe. What are they posting? What does yoga mean to them?

Every teacher is different, both in terms of style but also in personality and approach to the practice. Try a few different teachers before you think that yoga isn’t for you! I only really developed a committed practice once I found a few teachers that I really liked (and they are all very different in their teaching styles and personalities which I love!).

Preparing For Class

Yoga is seen as a “gentle” exercise but t’s best to not eat anything for a couple of hours before class. Heavy meals and downward facing dogs are not a great combination. If it’s an early morning class then definitely have breakfast afterwards, not before. And, contrary to what a yoga teacher told me during one of my formative classes, it’s ok to sip on water if you need to during class! 

Arrive Early

If it’s your first class at a new location then try to arrive 15 minutes early so that it’s not a last minute stress! You want to have enough time to find a spot (if you’re new then please don’t hide at the back!), get situated and have some time to relax before the class starts. My biggest pet peeve when I taught gym classes would be when someone arrived late to my class, snuck in at the back and then halfway through the class told me that they had a knee injury/were pregnant/had a medical condition. This is information needed at the start of the class! Be on time and let the stress of the day, the traffic, your to-do list dissipate a little before the start of class.

Don’t Be Shy

Introduce yourself to the teacher, tell them that you’re new or that it’s your first class. I promise we don’t care how flexible (or inflexible) you are, your body type or what brand of leggings you are wearing. By telling us that you are new we’ll be able to help you better and keep an eye on your throughout the class. Also mention any injuries so that you can be given modifications. And, I know you totally want to hide in the back but I’d recommend going to the second row – that way you have someone in front of you that you can copy if you get lost but you’re not so far from the teacher that it’s harder to see/hear them.

What To Bring

Ask the studio if you need to bring a mat – I know that here in Dubai, due to Covid, studios are no longer providing mats or sweat towels. If you do need a mat you don’t need to run out and spend £100 on one – any sports shop will sell a good enough mat. I had a cheap Sports Direct mat until two years ago and it served me well (before my cat destroyed it). If you have sensitive knees then bring a towel to pad them. I’d also add a small sweat towel and a reusable water bottle too. 

What To Wear

You don’t need to buy a whole new yoga outfit or spend a lots of money. Wear something you feel comfortable in, that you can move well in. I’d avoid anything too baggy. Firstly because it makes it harder for the teacher to see what you’re doing and secondly, well, we’ve all had our old baggy t-shirt going over our head in downward facing dog…not ideal! Leggings or shorts, a sports bra (for those who need them) and a tee or tank top is perfect.

After The Class

Don’t be scared to chat to the teacher and ask any questions. I’ve often had the questions which have challenged me most as a teacher from my beginner students because they often want to know the “why” behind what we do in a class. The longer we practice and teach, the further we ourselves get from a beginner’s mind approach – I honestly love getting asked questions or helping a student understand a pose better, so please don’t be shy about asking something seemingly obvious!

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I hope this helps, even if you are located somewhere yoga studios are currently closed! I’d love to know how you found your first yoga class experience, the good and the not-so-good!