Which Yoga Class Is Best For Beginners?

Choosing the right yoga class can be a daunting task, especially if you are a beginner. There are so many different styles and levels to choose from! It’s important to find a class that suits your needs and fitness level, otherwise, you may be discouraged from continuing your practice. 

To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the most popular yoga styles, as well as what to expect from each class. Once you’ve decided on a style, the next step is to find a yoga teacher near you that you feel comfortable with. 

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Typical Yoga Practices for Novices

1. Beginners Class

Even if you're in great shape already, newcomers to yoga should begin with a beginner's class. Downward-Facing Dog and Chaturanga are two poses that many yoga beginners struggle with, but your teacher may spend this much time on them in your entire yoga education. It's also a wonderful entry point into pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditative practices. Don't skip beginner classes because you think you're in good shape; you'll be glad you started from the beginning.

Sometimes it is not possible to do it on my own, look out for an online yoga class and follow the practices with professionals.

2. Flow or Vinyasa Yoga

Sun salutations, as well as standing and balancing poses, all find a home in flow/vinyasa classes because they are linked with the breath. It is common to practice for instructors to cue students' movements in time with their breaths, creating a fluid and rhythmic flow for the class as a whole. People are usually drawn to vinyasa because of its fluid, almost dance-like quality.

3. Power yoga

Power yoga is a catchall term for any physically demanding vinyasa yoga practice that emphasizes building strength. Classes like these usually get heated, but not always. Although some students may be drawn to the style for its potential to provide a challenging physical workout, most teachers instead focus on breath work and incorporate elements of yoga philosophy.

4. Gentle Yoga

Classes that focus on relaxation are perfect for novices and the general public. In this context, you'll learn about basic breathing exercises and a range of essential, introductory yoga postures. The majority of gentle classes will incorporate both seated and standing poses, in addition to floor stretches.

5. Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar is a great choice for newcomers because of its emphasis on alignment and slower pace. It's well-known for incorporating yoga props like blocks, straps, and blankets into the practice to lessen the likelihood of injury and broaden the range of students who can benefit from the poses. The practice's focus on exactness and detail is one of its most appealing qualities.