I don't want to look like a dork on the first day of yoga class?

Question

Always wanted to do the yoga. My gym gives free classes but I hate the idea of just popping in and being the all out of step guy. Should I even start this way, would it be better to go to a real yoga studio? How do I prepare to look as non dorky as possible the first day? Or should I just embrace my dorkyness?

Answer 1

Everyone feels like a dork when they try something new for the very first time! What about when you first learned to ride a bike? Or on your first day of school? It's okay to feel like a dork, just embrace it, like you said. It'll make your yoga experience all the more exhilarating. :)

Yes, try it at your gym, since it's free, number one, and since you're already comfortable going there, number two. Going to a real yoga studio would probably make you feel more out of place because those people are probably way more into it than the people at your gym. There would probably be fewer first-timers at the studio than there will be at your gym. One thing that might help you feel less "dorky" is to take your own mat. Most gyms provide these for yoga classes, but it might make you feel better to bring your own in (plus you can practice at home later). Wear loose-fitting clothing so you can do the poses.

Depending on your personality (shy or extroverted, what have you) you could either stick to the back of the room where you can comfortably watch other people doing their own thing and not feel intimidated, or you could get a front-row seat right up by the instructor and watch every move he/she makes so you know exactly what's going on. You can even talk the instructor, if you want to...most instructors don't mind giving extra help to new students (if you want to ask). Otherwise, just remember that you're new, it's your first time, and don't be too hard on yourself if you fall over once or twice or screw up your breathing. You'll get it! Namaste. :)

Answer 2

You can look up charts and video clips of the basic poses right from the internet. If you practice a little, you won't feel so lost. You can ask to sit in for a class first. Take a seat somewhere where your not distracting the instructor or class, that also keeps you from feeling like everyone is watching you. Stay for a little while. You can see what specific poses the instructor uses, what most people are wearing, the pace the class moves at, and whether it actually might be something you'd like to do.

Answer 3

Yes. You'll be (and feel) jerky perhaps the first 3-6 classes. Later on you'll find out you're becoming more and more flexible, and you'll learn to relax and breathe, which are two of the main purposes of yoga. The point is that if you seriously want to carry on practicing this wonderful discipline you must not let yourself feel frustrated at the beginning. Be consistent and you'll discover that your body is more capable than what you thought.

Answer 4

I was that dork once... :-)

Go early and tell the teacher you're new. You won't be out of place, honestly. It's nice and relaxing, and I don't think people will be watching you as much as you might think.

Enjoy!!