How to Choose a Yoga Class

Yoga is an exciting, challenging, and beautiful form of exercise and meditation. Whether you are new or experienced, when looking for a new studio and class, it is important to find one that both fits your experience level and helps you achieve your physical or spiritual goals. Read on for some tips on finding a yoga class that will fit best with your skill level, personality, and fitness goals. ^[1]

EditSteps

EditExploring Different Types of Yoga

1. Try out Iyengar yoga for an introduction to yoga. This type of yoga focuses on precise alignment in postures, and as such is suitable for beginners who are learning the basics of yoga positions. For a more challenging alternative, Anusara yoga is also focused on alignment, but uses props to help find proper alignment in poses.
   
2. Burn calories with Vinyasa yoga. There is a reason this is one of the most popular forms of yoga in the US. Especially if you enjoy running and other high-intensity exercise activities, you will enjoy its fast-paced and rhythmic atmosphere. Classes can vary from instructor to region, and often incorporate music and chanting, so it's a creative, interesting way to enjoy yoga-- and get a workout.^[2]
   
3. Try Bikram yoga if you have mastered the basics. This is an extremely popular form of hot yoga. Bikram yoga classes are based on a set, 26 pose routine, and are taught in temperatures of ^[3]. This is a good option for you have tried more conventional forms of yoga and are looking to take on the next challenge. The combination of heat and routine difficulty can be very strenuous, so make sure to hydrate.
   
4. Deepen your spirituality with Kundalini yoga. If you are looking to explore the spiritual side of the ancient art of yoga, Kundalini yoga is focused on meditation and spiritual energy, and emphasizes breathing and chanting over exercising.
   
5. Test your limits with Ashtanga yoga. This is one of the most vigorous of yoga classes. It builds stamina, strength and flexibility. ^[4] Ashtanga yoga classes run through a predetermined series of poses so if you like both challenge and routine, Ashtanga might be the style for you.
   

EditFinding a Studio

1. Research yoga studios. Use online communities, internet searches, or apps like Lymber ^[5] to find yoga studios near your home or work that teach a style of yoga you are interested in. Finding a studio that is easy to access, affordable, and welcoming will help ease your transition into your new yoga class.
   
   • Though most studios will offer basic beginner's courses, you may find that some studios will focus on meditation and philosophy, while others will focus on physical benefits of yoga, like calorie-burning and muscle toning. ^[6] Keep your goals in mind as you search.
2. Walk around the studio. Ideally, it should be large, airy, clean, and quiet, in order to minimize distractions and increase your focus. You should feel welcomed, comfortable and at ease in the studio space.
   
3. Inquire about trial classes. Many studios offer trial classes or periods in which you can join a class at little or no cost, so take advantage of these offers to try out the studio in a class setting, as well as to observe and speak with instructors. If you feel pressured or rushed at any time, or if the room is crowded or unsanitary, then it might be time to move on with your search. ^[7]
   
4. Speak with instructors. A good studio will take care to employ qualified and passionate yoga instructors. Ask questions about the studio instructors' qualifications. How long have they been practicing? Where were they certified? How long were there certification programs?
   
   • If professional certification is especially important to you, particularly if you are searching to take your practice and knowledge to the next level, you may search for studios that employ instructors that are Registered Yoga Teachers (RYTs). ^[8]

EditChoosing a Class

1. Choose a class that matches your skill level. If you are a beginner, many studios have promotions for beginner workshops or classes. These provide helpful introductions to yoga poses, vocabulary, and background.
   
   • It is especially important for beginners to be in a small class where the instructor can see you and make sure you are practicing safely.
   • Studios label their class levels in different ways. A beginner's class in one studio may be a Level 1 class at another. Make sure you read level and class descriptions carefully and follow the advice given before attending a class.
2. Be open to diverse yoga experiences. If you are more advanced, don't be afraid to try a type of yoga you haven't before. Experiment with a meditative or heat form of yoga, or go back to the basics with a beginner's class to brush up on your form, deep breathing, and posture.
   
3. Try out different instructors. Some people prefer a teacher who helps them move into poses with hands-on adjustments. Other people enjoy taking classes with a teacher who observes and only gives verbal instructions. Everyone has different tastes, but to maximize your learning experience, your instructor should be approachable, inspiring, and radiate positive energy. ^[9]
   

EditTips

• Always inform your yoga teacher about any injuries or physical problems you are experiencing. An experienced teacher will be able to modify poses so that they are safe and appropriate for your body.
• If you are a beginner in a course not targeted for beginners, inform the instructor or assistant beforehand so they can keep an eye out for potential mistakes and prevent possible injuries.
• Stay hydrated! Yoga can be a very intensive form of exercise, so it is important you keep your body in good condition.

EditRelated wikiHows

• Practice Yoga Daily
• Gain Muscle by Yoga
• Benefit from Power Yoga
• Use Yoga for Shoulder Pain

EditSources and Citations

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