What to Expect on your First Yoga Studio Visit

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One of the things that people often ask me is what should he or she expect when they go to their first yoga class? I would normally say don’t have too many expectations, just celebrate having the time for yourself and enjoy.

But there are a few things that I can throw out there to help you prepare for your first yoga class. Of course, there are a few things you can bring with you to the class. I suggest having a yoga mat, water bottle and if you tend to sweat a lot, maybe a hand towel.

What to Wear to Your First Yoga Class

Your clothes should be breathable and comfortable. I love leggings. I wear leggings to yoga class. I wear leggings when I’m home. I wear leggings when I go out. Most studios have you remove your shoes and store them outside of the actual yoga space that class will be held.

Unless it’s an emergency situation, try to leave your cell phone outside of the studio. Some people store their phones in the cubbies outside of the studio but I keep my phone in the car. You don’t want to be the person whose cell phone rings during a yoga class. Plus this is your time to disconnect from the outside world.

Generally studios have someone outside of the room checking students in. It may be the teacher or someone else who works for the studio. Yoga studios tend to work on a monthly payment system or a batching system where classes are sold in bundles. If this is your first time and you only want to take a single class, you will probably be offered a “drop in” rate.

Paperwork at your First Yoga Class

If this is your first time at the studio, you will most likely also be asked to complete a waiver. During this time, the teacher may also ask you questions about your yoga history, past injuries, etc.

Once you are inside the studio, find a spot and roll out your mat. Many students like to take the time before class to ground themselves. This may mean laying on their back in corpse pose or sitting up with their legs crossed.

After the class has started, you may feel like the class is too challenging, and that’s okay. If you need to rest, you can always go into Downward Facing Dog or Child’s Pose and breath.

What if you Struggle?

The most important thing is that you keep an even and steady breathe throughout the class. If you are struggling with keeping up with the class pace, be compassionate to yourself. Take a few breaths and watch the instruction. There is absolutely no shame in taking all the time that you need.

If you’d like to see some of my favorite yoga items, check out my article on the 10 Best Yoga Christmas Gifts and My Favorite Father’s Day Yoga Gifts.

This is one of my favorite Yoga books and it’s great for beginners because there are a ton of pictures and explanations.