Yoga is ideal for those who need to meditate and relax. But dressing properly for class can be a real challenge for amateurs! In general, comfortable clothing should be worn in a fabric that allows the skin to breathe (such as cotton, bamboo or jersey). The choice of the outfit, however, is also determined by the type of course you choose. Here are some tips to better prepare you.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: The Right Yoga for You
Ask the instructor what type of yoga he teaches or look for this information on the gym or association website. There are various types of courses:
Step 1. Hatha Yoga or Vinyasa Yoga
Generally, the lessons for the novice are from Hatha or Vinyasa, which focus on coordination between movement and breath. Vinyasa features a slightly faster pace and involves more intense stretching, leg lifts and flips. The more advanced the lessons become, the more challenges you will face.
Step 2. Ashtanga, or Power Yoga, is recommended for those who want to try their hand at more advanced exercises than those for amateurs
These classes involve constant movement between poses and, as a result, challenge the physique more.
Step 3. Iyengar Yoga allows you to focus on each pose for a longer period of time than previous variations
Among its objectives, the search for balance and total stretching. This type often requires the use of tools such as the cube, the belt and the yoga blanket, which, in general, provides the gym.
Step 4. Bikram Yoga, or Hot Yoga, is perfect for eliminating toxins
The temperature of the place where it is practiced is set around 37 degrees, to allow yogis to sweat and purify themselves. The heat also encourages the muscles to relax, which leads to a better stretch.
Method 2 of 4: Choose the Shirt
The yoga shirt should fit the shape of the bust loosely. Before buying it, try it out by practicing some position. If it allows you to move freely and doesn't get too high during exercises, then buy it.
Step 1. Put on a tank top
During yoga, you will move your arms a lot: a piece of clothing without sleeves will make you feel more comfortable, without worries that could distract your attention from the exercises.
Choose one that doesn't have a plunging neckline and that fits your shape well. A tank top that is too soft and low-cut will show areas of your body that, perhaps, make you feel embarrassed
Step 2. If you practice Bikram, wear a sports bra
Since you will sweat a lot, you will want to stay cool. Sports bras are usually categorized by impact level - choose the low one. Men can, on the other hand, practice it without a shirt.
Step 3. Choose a comfortable t-shirt
Wear it to try out some movement; so, you will realize if it is too tight.
During poses involving flips, the t-shirt may stand up. If this possibility bothers you, slip it into your pants or even wear a tank top underneath
Step 4. Experiment with the layers
If you practice Iyengar or Vinyasa, you may want to wear a light sweatshirt over a tank top so you won't feel cold at the beginning and end of the class when there is minimal movement. As soon as you start to feel the heat, you can always stay in the tank top.
Step 5. Use a bathing suit if you practice yoga outdoors in the summer
Method 3 of 4: Choose the Pants
The right pants should fit your shape and be of a light, stretch fabric.
Step 1. Try them on in a sports shop
Go for the color that suits you and, in the dressing room, do some stretching or lunges to make sure you have freedom of movement. You can also wear them for running and cycling.
- Long pants are best for classes that don't involve a lot of quick movements - excess fabric could block your motor fluency.
- The most active and eventful classes require shorts or pants that go up to the calves.
- Pants can be cigarette or bell-bottoms or resemble leggings. Choose the style that makes you feel comfortable, otherwise you will not be able to concentrate and will only worry about your appearance.
Step 2. Try cycling shorts, which stay still during your movements, especially if you take Bikram classes
- Check if the pants are transparent when you lengthen them.
- If you sweat a lot, opt for colors like black or navy, which hide stains better.
Step 3. Wear simple sports shorts that make you feel comfortable
Step 4. Put on a pair of leggings (opaque
).
If you've never done yoga and don't know if you're going to continue after your first class, a pair of leggings will allow you to exercise comfortably without spending unnecessary money. However, in case you discover that this is the activity for you, invest in clothing designed for yoga, which will allow you to assume the poses in a flexible way, without restrictions
Method 4 of 4: The Accessories
Remove the jewelry and opt for accessories such as a headband, gloves and a mat.
Step 1. A headband, or headband, will allow you to keep your hair tidy, without it sticking to your forehead or coming out in front of your eyes
Step 2. Buy a pair of yoga gloves, which are non-slip
They don't cost much and can be found in well-stocked sportswear stores, health food outlets, and online.
Step 3. Purchase a pair of yoga socks, which are also non-slip
You will not want to fall on the mat, especially during Bikram or high intensity classes.
Step 4. A towel is never a bad idea, especially during those classes that make you sweat a lot
Plus, you can put one on the mat so your hands don't slip - it'll come in handy if you don't like yoga gloves. Another thing: if you use the mat or mat they give you in the gym, it will be necessary for hygienic reasons.
Step 5. Invest in a mat
Some are expensive but it's nice to have your own, which you can use at home as well. Also, you may need to buy one if you don't want to use the one given to you at the gym.
- If you still don't know if you will continue practicing yoga, you can always rent one.
- The mats vary according to the thickness. If you have knee problems or want more support when sitting down, buy a particularly compact one.
Step 6. Buy a bag to store it and carry it comfortably with you
Advice
- Yoga is practiced barefoot. To go all the way to the gym, choose shoes that you can easily take off and put on, like a pair of sandals or ballet flats. If you hate the idea of training barefoot, there are yoga shoes, like those from Nike.
- Doing yoga doesn't mean entering a competition for the hottest look. Focus on relaxation and introspection.
- Comfort is the key! Even the simplest positions can be challenging if they require the intervention of muscles that are not used every day. Dressing comfortably will help you a lot.
- Always try a few movements before going to class to make sure you can practice the exercises freely.
- The yoga cube, belt, and blanket are usually provided by the gym. However, if you plan on practicing at home as well, you may want to buy them.
- Many instructors prefer leggings to better control student leg positions and muscle movements.
- To avoid the "see-no-see" effect, wear underwear in the same color as your clothing. Example: black briefs under black leggings.
Warnings
- Avoid soft pants and shorts. Many positions involve reversals, resulting in more skin than necessary.
- Do not spend too much, especially if you are at the beginning and do not know if you will continue.
- Bring a change of clothes. After sweating, it will be pleasant to wear fresh clothes.
- Worrying too much about outfits could take you away from what yoga is all about. All you need is a towel and some comfortable suits. Don't be obsessed with the image.
