Whether you’re looking to tone your body, increase flexibility or get healthier, a yoga class may be the perfect workout for you. Just make sure you know what to expect and have the right mindset before you unroll your mat.
In-person yoga classes can provide personalized attention from a teacher to help you improve your posture. This is difficult to replicate in online yoga classes.
Beginner
Beginner classes introduce basic poses and stretches in a peaceful, candle lit ambiance. These classes are perfect for anyone and often include beginner-friendly poses like downward facing dog and child’s pose. These classes will often focus on breathing exercises and a two minute relaxation at the end of class called Savasana, which is done lying down in corpse position.
If you’re a beginner, it is highly recommended to take a beginner yoga class instead of just jumping into a regular vinyasa or hot flow class because the instructor can help guide students through postures safely and effectively. If you’re not sure what type of class is best for you, consider scheduling an intro appointment with an instructor to discuss your options and get a feel for the studio.
Iyengar yoga is another good option for beginners because it focuses on physical alignment and a more active approach to movement, so beginners can build their practice with ease. These classes often include props like blocks, bolsters and straps to help students achieve poses they otherwise wouldn’t be able to do without the support.
Intermediate
After a little time, many yoga students will naturally progress from beginner’s classes into intermediate class offerings. The transition can be nerve-wracking, especially for those that are still not flexible enough to touch their toes or complete a half prayer twist.
Generally speaking, instructors will offer verbal cues and hands-on adjustments in this level of class. They will also call out the English and Sanskrit names for poses and may incorporate some of the more advanced shapes into the class.
These classes are a bit more challenging and are typically held at a warmer temperature than a beginner’s class. They will include more advanced standing postures, hip-openers and some balancing sequences. This is a great class for those looking to challenge their body while still keeping it safe and strengthening the muscles. It is recommended that you have at least a beginner’s level of experience before attempting this class. This class is a good way to build strength and endurance in the body while developing concentration.
Advanced
Yoga is an amazing workout for people of all ages and fitness levels. It strengthens muscles, increases flexibility and decreases stress. It also improves balance and coordination, and promotes a sense of calmness and peace.
Whether you’re an athlete or just want to feel more flexible, Yoga Sculpt is the class for you. This level 2 class is a combination of both yoga and strength training, giving you a full body workout with the added benefit of burning fat.
Level 3 and 4 classes are often associated with acrobats and movement artists, but anyone who’s been practicing yoga for more than a few years can take them. Advancing to these classes doesn’t make you a better yogi, but they can be challenging physically and mentally. They may feature more difficult arm balances or longer handstand holds and are usually fast-paced. You’ll learn to move directly from one pose to the next, connecting your breath with your movement.
Private
A private yoga class is a perfect fit for beginners, people with limited mobility or injuries and anyone who feels uncomfortable in a large group setting. In private sessions, a student can work at their own pace and receive frequent verbal and hands-on adjustments (depending on comfort level) to help them move more deeply into poses or sequences.
New yogis often feel overwhelmed by all the movements, names and lingo in group classes. They may also be worried about being left behind in a yoga flow that is too advanced for them to keep up with. Private sessions can ease the transition into group classes and teach the basics, like how to breathe correctly and safely.
Private lessons are also beneficial for athletes, working professionals and moms-to-be who want to add a regular yoga practice to their life without worrying about fitting it into a busy schedule. Esti’s private yoga classes are held at your home or in her studio and designed around your goals.