Starting anything new can be daunting, and that counts twice for yoga. If you’ve never been to a yoga class — or only practiced a handful of times — stepping into a studio can be intimidating. Often many levels are grouped into one class. And even if the teacher encourages everyone to approach their practice with beginner eyes, it’s often easy to separate the veterans from the newbies.

Here are some tips to make your experience as zen as possible:

Know What to Bring

Yoga studios typically have blocks, straps, blankets and other props for students to use. Most gyms and studios have mats you can rent or borrow, but feel free to bring your own if you have one. It’s alright to wait to see if you enjoy the practice before investing in a mat. You may also want a towel.

At the NAC, our yoga studio offers all of the class necessities above! Mat or no mat, NAC members can drop into a yoga class at anytime.

Avoid Eating Before Class

Give yourself at least an hour to digest. A slice of pizza and all that upside-downing just don’t mix.

Dress for Success

Wear light, loose (but not too loose) fitting athletic gear you can move in comfortably. “Ladies, a fitted tank top will keep you from tugging on the bottom of your top as you turn upside down. Gentlemen, consider what’s underneath those mesh shorts to avoid a peep show.”

Ditch the Extras

Leave ball caps, sunglasses, watches and jewelry at home & don’t forget to leave your phone (on silent) in your bag!

Arrive Early

Get to the studio about 10 minutes early to secure a spot, gather your props and get settled. If you’re feeling any recent aches or pains, make sure you inform your instructor, so they can modify your practice + avoid future injuries.

Don’t Wear Shoes in the Studio

Most studios have a place for you to leave your shoes before entering class. At the NAC, we have cubbies at the entrances to place your shoes & other belongings.

Leave Distraction at the Door

Turn off your phone. Gather your props, lay out your mat and relax. The hardest part (even for long-time yogis) can be getting through the door and onto the mat.

Modifications Are Ok

You don’t have to practice every pose. It’s important to listen to your body and not over do it.

You can always rest in a seated position on your mat child’s pose. (For child’s pose, kneel down and sit on your heels with your knees and feet together. As you exhale, bend forward, placing your forehead on the floor.

Don’t Rush Out

Most classes end with several minutes in a final relaxation pose, savasana, where you lie on your back and quiet your mind. Don’t skip it.

*Yoga guide inspired by My Fitness Pal Blog.

If you haven’t heard the big news – we breaking boundaries within our club and currently expanding our group exercise wing with 3 brand new studios, including a state of the art yoga, hot yoga & barre studio!

Click here to get an insider’s look of our ongoing expansion.

To learn about our upcoming yoga events, please fill out the form below…

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