We are so happy when we see people coming to the studio for their first ever Yoga class. A physical Yoga class can be quite different to your typical workout so we have listed the most crucial things you need to know below.
To ensure a safe practice and to avoid falling into bad habits from the get-go, it’s always best to head to a studio for in-person instruction rather than learning from a pre-recorded video. Your teacher is able to see your form as well as everyone else’s in the room and can offer modifications for different poses depending on students’ needs.
Please know that you’re not alone if you find it a bit daunting turning up to your first class. If you have any specific concerns that need to be addressed you can always email us first at hello@oneforallhotyoga.com, and we will do our best to reassure you. Otherwise read these tips to help set your mind at rest – we look forward to seeing you on the mat.
Things to know if you’re new to Yoga
- Aim to arrive at least 10 minutes before the class start time. Please book ahead if you can or allow a little extra time at the studio for sign in.
- You don’t need to bring your own mat. We have mats to hire free of charge and we also have mats for sale.
- Wear anything that’s comfortable. You’ll also want to tie long hair back so it’s out of your eyes and remove jewellery.
- When you arrive at the studio please take off your shoes and leave them on the shelves provided. (You might also want to remove your socks as Yoga is generally practised with bare feet).
- No phones are to be brought into the studio. Please leave all belongings in the changing rooms and the front doors will be locked once the class begins.
- Before and after class the studio is a silent space for people to enjoy the stillness. You can chat with your teacher and fellow students in the reception area and changing rooms.
- Find a spot in the room to place your mat where you will be able to see not only the centre front of the room but also the sides. You will be facing different directions throughout the class so it will be helpful to have someone on either side of you as well as in front.
- Remember as it’s your first class you might get things a little mixed up or make a mistake and that’s ok.
- The teacher may come around to provide verbal or hands-on adjustments but will observe your personal space wherever possible.
Preparing yourself for the class
- Once you have booked your first class, the next thing you want to do is to mentally prepare yourself.
- Make sure you turn up hydrated but avoid having a heavy meal before class.
- Bring a bottle so you can refill at the studio after the class if needed, but you probably don’t want to drink during the practice itself.
- Be mindful of other students in the space by avoiding wearing any strong perfumes or essential oils.
- Take a couple of blocks provided in the studio to place by your mat during class and the teacher will advise you on how to use them if appropriate.
- At the end of the class the teacher will leave the room so everyone can relax in Savasana, every moment during this time is precious so stay as long as you can.
- Make sure you let the teacher know before class if you have any injuries or special circumstances.
No experience or flexibility is needed! It will be a pleasure having you in the studio. The first few classes are always the most challenging, but just remember everyone has been through it and it will begin to get easier after a few sessions.
