4 Tips to Prepare You For Your First Yoga Class

According to an article by Forbes, some 37 million people practiced yoga in 2016. This form of exercise seems ubiquitous, and it is no wonder because it is highly beneficial. Yoga not only supports flexibility, but also weight loss, stress relief, and general health. One of the great things about yoga is that anyone can participate, at any fitness level. Yoga teachers can create modifications based on physical limitations and help correct body mechanics as well. Here are a few tips for anyone about to try yoga for beginners. 

1. Choose a comfortable outfit with safety in mind.

Wear clothing that is comfortable, breathable, and easy to move in. It's important to consider length when choosing clothing to wear during yoga. You do not want to wear clothing that will impede your ability to move your hands, feet, and arms. Most people practice yoga barefoot; however, if you are uncomfortable going barefoot, make sure that you wear socks with non-slip grips.

2. Have a light snack before class starts.

It is best to have a light snack before a yoga class as opposed to a heavy meal. You want to feel satisfied, but not overly full before you start to exercise. A heavy meal may weigh you down and make you uncomfortable as you stretch and hold new poses. Eat a small, protein-rich snack about an hour before class starts. Peanut butter, oatmeal, almonds, and yogurt are examples of protein-packed snacks. Make sure that you also hydrate so that you are prepared to sweat.

3. Bring a clean yoga mat.

Yoga mats help to make the class a more comfortable experience. Once you have obtained a yoga mat, soak it in a tub full of clean water and scrub it with a mixture of water and dish soap. Rinse it clean with water and hang it to dry. You should plan to do this a few days before class so that your mat is clean and ready to use. You should clean your mat every few weeks or months, even if you only use it occasionally.

4. Switch your phone to silent.

Make sure that you turn your ringer off before going into your yoga class. In most cases, yoga classes require quiet so that the instructor can provide clear communication to the students. Yoga also includes breathing and mental components which would be interrupted by a cellphone going off.


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