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Step 1
Compare the yoga classes in your area in terms of what atmosphere you’re looking for. Some yoga studios are spiritual in nature, complete with New Age music and incense while others are more commercial or modern in appearance. Decide which environment feels best to you.
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Step 2
If you do not own a yoga mat or props, find out if the yoga studio you’re interested in has them. Some will offer mats, blocks, blankets, bolsters, and even eye pillows while others will expect you to bring your own.
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Step 3
Know which style of yoga you’re interested in. The basic offerings include Hatha, which focuses on breath and alignment and is great for beginners and intermediate students; Iyengar, which centers on alignment, uses lots of props and holds poses longer; Vinyasa, which is a flow class that synchronizes breath and movement together in a series called the Sun Salutation; Ashtanga, which is better suited for experienced yogis and concentrates on a quick flow from posture to posture; Bikram, which is also called hot yoga and uses a heated room to encourage sweating and easier muscle movement; Gentle, which is best suited for beginners; and Kundalini yoga, which focuses on breath and energy with rapid postures.
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Step 4
Check the types of classes the yoga studio offers, whether you’re more comfortable with a male or female instructor, and how of a class you want. Some are only 45 minutes and others are two hours. Read the teacher bios and see if their teaching style matches your personality. Find out how much of the class is actual pose (or asana) practice and how much is lecture or meditation.
