A Beginner's Guide to Yoga

Lydia Seabol

Starting a yoga program can be puzzling—here are ways a beginner can ease into it.

Yoga has become extremely popular in recent years. An ancient Indian spiritual tradition, yoga has become Westernized to the point where yoga mats are sold at Wal-Mart and yoga postures are pictured in Nike ads. But some are asking, why yoga? For many beginners, starting a yoga program can be puzzling.

Those who practice yoga have said that, if seriously studied, it can result in true happiness, physical health, freedom, mental harmony, emotional balance, and a better sense of the world. Even if your goal is simply to learn the yoga basics, it can still benefit your everyday life, no matter what your age.

A problem for many beginners is where to start. Before taking on yoga, you should find a class that is right for you. Research the different types of yoga and determine what it is you want out of it. To find a suitable teacher and class, ask your co-workers and friends for suggestions, check the Yellow Pages, and check your local fitness center.

Richard Rosen, author of The Yoga of Breath: A Step-by-Step Guide to Pranayama, suggests beginners should start an introductory class but should try many different yoga instructors. "For the first four to six weeks, a beginner should shop around and try to find an introductory class and instructor which he or she feels extremely comfortable with." Rosen also suggests collecting class schedules from several yoga studios, if available, and talking to an instructor at each studio.

Once you find a yoga studio, be sure to ask about the different kinds of classes, their cost, what you should wear, and if mats or blankets are supplied. The size of the class is also important.

In general, comfortable, breathable clothing is best for yoga. Stay away from baggy or restricting clothing that can distract you or others. Suitable yoga clothing can be found at most athletic-wear stores. Yogasuperstore.com also has a wide selection of styles and colors. Mats are usually supplied, but if you tend to sweat heavily, it is courteous to bring your own. Classes usually cost around $10 and up per session, or $80 to $150 per series.

Beginners should start with an easy course in which they can learn the basic postures. Yoga styles such as Ashtanga or Bikram are usually much too rigorous for the first-timer. Instead, opt for an introductory class. When starting a course, be sure to tell the instructor about any past injuries or physical problems. If the first class doesn't seem right for you, try other classes or instructors. It can take several classes before you find the right class for you. Once you have found one you like, stick to that class and work with the instructor so that he or she can help meet your needs.