Yoga for Beginners: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started

For those new to yoga, starting can be intimidating. In this blog, I provide a comprehensive guide for beginners. Learn how to choose the right style of yoga, a class that suits you and get comfortable with basic yoga etiquette. We'll also cover essential gear, what to expect in your first class, and tips to overcome common beginner challenges. 

The yoga market is saturated and it can be quite overwhelming, trying to find a class that’s right. Before you begin, reflect on why you wish to start. What are you hoping to gain from the practice? Everyone's reasons are different and if you’re already thinking about it, the chances are you’re clear in your mind about what you want. Yoga is extremely popular, so it may be worth chatting with friends, family or colleagues who have an existing practice. The best recommendations come from word of mouth! 

The thought of starting can be intimidating and there are lots of social media accounts that show images of super bendy, fit and beautiful people in designer clothes, doing complex postures in the backdrop of a fancy, intimidating studio. 

If you’ve  never tried yoga before, I want you to know you don’t require flexibility to start and you don’t need expensive clothing or equipment. Just wear something that’s soft and comfortable that gives you the freedom to move.  It might also be good to follow accounts that give a realistic picture of yoga, with images of real bodies. Following studios or teachers on instagram can give you an insight into their vibe and whether or not they are for you. 

It can also be helpful to research yoga classes in your area. Perhaps it suits you to find a class close to home because of your circumstances. Or you might be willing to travel to another part of the town or city to attend a class or teacher who resonates. Find out the values and the ethos of the teacher. Does this align with you? Yoga is much more than a physical practice, it’s a philosophy on how you experience the ups and downs of life. 

Consider your time and budget, how often you can attend and afford to pay.  Many local yoga studios and teachers offer introductory offers and have a range of packages and pricing options, available to suit the needs of the people they serve. 

As you look into classes, you’ll see that there are many styles of yoga. It’s not a one size fits all. If you try out a class and you don’t enjoy it, give consideration to trying something else. A style like vinyasa flow may be good if you’re looking for something a bit more challenging or dynamic. But, some teachers will teach a gentler version of this and others hot and sweaty. Depending on the teacher and their niche, there might be an anatomical, mindful or spiritual focus.

Classes such as yin or restorative yoga are really slow paced. They’re practiced on the floor with props and may lend themselves well to if you’re looking for something nurturing that helps to reduce stress. 

With all of this in mind, the best advice I can give to anyone new is to seek out a beginners yoga class. This will give you an introduction to breathing techniques, foundational postures, transitions and the different options you can take. It lets you build up your confidence with like minded people and understand how to do the movements correctly and safely. Depending on the teacher, you may also learn a little bit of the philosophy behind yoga too.

When you’re attending a yoga class, it’s a good idea to arrive a few minutes early to roll out your mat and get settled. It can be disruptive to arrive late, as many teachers start their class with a short meditation or some breathwork to help students land in their bodies in preparation for the practice ahead. Turn off your phone and remove your shoes before you enter the class. The final relaxation in savasana helps you to regulate your nervous system, cool your body down and let the breath return to normal. If you have to leave before the final relaxation, then it’s a good idea to let your teacher know at the beginning of class. It’s also a good idea to book yourself in with the teacher or studios booking system ahead of time, to guarantee your spot. 

I teach welcoming and inclusive yoga classes at The Wellbeing Hub in the east end of Glasgow. There are classes to suit seasoned yoga practitioners and new people. My beginners yoga classes run on a Tuesday evening and Saturday morning. You can view my schedule here.