Yoga Routines for Beginners: Get What You Really Want

Trying out yoga for the first time can seem a daunting task. There are different styles, equipment, poses, or heated rooms versus non-heated rooms. Here are some suggestions for yoga routines for beginners.

Do a Little Research

There are several different yoga types and some may be better for what you desire than others. If you’re interested in an intense class that gets your heart going, consider power yoga or flow yoga. In these classes there is little to no settling between poses; this increases the heart rate and will have you breathing heavy at first. If you’re interested in a more meditative style, consider Ananda or Ashtanga yoga with a more spiritual focus. If you like a challenge, then you may like the rigor of a Bikram yoga class, taught in a heated room with an average temperature of 102 degrees. For those of you who have been injured, had surgery, or have a chronic pain problem, Iyengar yoga may be a great option for you. This class has a focus on props like blocks and straps; these tools create great modification for those who need it. These are just some of the many yoga routines for beginners.

What do you Need?

The only thing you really need for your first class is a mat and water. You can buy a basic yoga mat at your local sporting goods store or other boutique athletic shops like REI or Lululemon. They usually run for under thirty dollars, and if cared for properly, will last you a very long time.

As regards water, don’t overdo it. Most yoga teachers do not encourage overdrinking water during a class; it can lead to a feeling of fullness and decrease in the inner heat your body creates during a yoga practice. Instead, focus on drinking a lot of water throughout the day and after your practice to help stay hydrated.

If you sweat a lot (and you probably will in your first class) then you may also like a small towel to wipe excessive sweat. In hot yoga classes like Bikram, you may also like to place a towel under your feet and on top of your mat. Otherwise, you may slip on your own sweat!

Last but not Least . . .

Introduce yourself to your yoga instructor: He or she is there to guide you and help you. Let your teacher know if you have any injuries ahead of time; they may be able to provide you with adjustments that will help personalize your experience. Remember, yoga routines for beginners should start out purely with a focus on breathing well. It is not about pushing your limits. It’s about focusing on meditative breathing and staying attuned to your body’s needs.