How to Begin Yoga Classes

Yoga is an ancient exercise form that emphasizes strength and flexibility over speed. The earliest depiction of yoga poses can be found on stone seals from around 3,000 B.C. Its roots may go back even further as parallels can be found between yoga and stone age shamanism. Today, yoga is valued both as a toning exercise and relaxation technique. The experience you have learning yoga will depend largely on your instructor and the balance they create between the physical and spiritual aspects of the discipline.

Things You'll Need

  • Phone book
  • Telephone
  • Transportation
  • Comfortable clothing
  • Sneakers
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Instructions

  1. Finding Yoga Classes

    • 1

      Search under "Yoga" in the Yellow Pages of your local phone book to see if any yoga studios are in your area. If you find any studios, call and ask what classes they offer for beginners and what the price is.

    • 2

      Search the phone book under the heading "Health Clubs." If you live in a small town, there may not be a yoga studio in your area, but many gyms offer yoga classes as part of their fitness instruction. Call any health clubs you find listed and ask if they offer yoga classes and if a membership is required to participate. Some gyms will require a membership. Others will simply charge you a higher fee if you are not a member.

    • 3

      Contact your community college and inquire about yoga classes. Some community colleges offer yoga classes, so if you have a college in your area, it is worth checking out, especially if you fail to find suitable classes at a yoga studio or health club.

    • 4

      Compare all the options. If you find more than one class available, decide which is best for you by comparing price, location, time of day that the classes are held, and whether or not child care is provided. If you are considering joining a health club, you may wish to stop by to see the facility and meet the staff. Many health clubs offer a free trial membership, and sometimes fitness classes are free to members.

    • 5

      Sign up for classes.

    Preparing for Your First Class

    • 6

      Wear comfortable clothing. It may be loose or form fitting and stretchy, whichever makes you most at ease. Be aware that although yoga is not a high impact practice, you can still work up a sweat, so dressing in layers is a good idea.

    • 7

      Wear comfortable shoes. Yoga is typically done barefoot, and some health clubs have restrictions on what shoes can be worn inside, so when you are signing up for classes you may want to ask what footwear they recommend. If you are uncertain, clean sneakers are a good option.

    • 8

      Arrive a few minutes early for your first class. This will give you time to use the restroom, meet your instructor and become comfortable before beginning. You may also need to rent a yoga mat if you don't have your own.