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Chapters (10)

Beginner’s Guide to Yoga – How to Choose a Class

YOGABODY · 16:53

In this practice

Key teachings

  • Understanding the characteristics and philosophy behind major yoga styles
  • Principles for selecting a yoga class best suited for individual needs and preferences
  • Awareness of important safety considerations for wrists, knees, and lower back in yoga practice

Ideal for

  • Individuals completely new to yoga practice
  • Beginners feeling overwhelmed by the variety of yoga styles available
  • Anyone exploring different yoga paths before committing to a specific style
  • Existing practitioners curious about the nuances of other yoga traditions

Lesson

Instructions

If you’re new to yoga, the variety of class names, lingo, and styles on offer can be confusing or even intimidating. Some classes involve chanting and spirituality, while others are fitness-focused and agnostic. Some offer challenging workouts, while others are more like intense stretching routines.

Most yoga in your area will fall into just a handful of categories that we’ll explore in this video. And while we’ll inevitably overlook some styles you might stumble upon on your travels, this guide should help you find a yoga style to suit your needs.

VIDEO CONTENTS 00:00 Beginner’s Yoga 01:18 Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga 02:42 Iyengar Yoga 03:42 Bikram / Hot Yoga 05:05 Classic Hatha Yoga 07:05 Targeted Yoga 07:51 Fusion Yoga 08:30 How to Choose a Class 10:18 Tips Before Your First Class 11:40 Safety Considerations for Your Wrists, Knees and Lower Back

YOGA STYLES WE’LL COVER * Ashtanga Vinyasa * Iyengar * Bikram (Hot) * Hatha * Targeted * Fusion

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Steps

  • Descriptive overview of dynamic sequencing and breath synchronization in Ashtanga Vinyasa
  • Explanation of precise alignment and prop usage in Iyengar Yoga
  • Discussion of practicing in heated environments and fixed sequences typical of Bikram/Hot Yoga
  • Introduction to foundational static poses and basic breathwork common in Hatha Yoga

Benefits

  • Empowers beginners to make informed choices when selecting a yoga class
  • Reduces intimidation and confusion associated with diverse yoga offerings
  • Helps prevent potential injuries by highlighting crucial safety considerations
  • Provides a clear foundational understanding of different yoga philosophies and approaches
  • Saves time and effort by guiding practitioners towards suitable styles

Practice summary

Level
all levels
Duration
12 minutes
Equipment
none
Target areas
understanding yoga stylesinformed decision makinginjury prevention awarenessyoga terminology
Energy
balancing

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