Yoga is a good exercise for clearing your mind and strengthening your body. If you have a busy schedule, you may have difficulty attending in-person yoga classes consistently. Online yoga classes can be ideal for starting a consistent exercise routine. Here are six tips to make the most out of online yoga classes:
1. Find a Quality Online Yoga Class
When browsing for online yoga classes, consider the type of yoga you want to practice. If you want an upbeat routine to get your heart pumping, go for a vinyasa flow class. Yin yoga is a gentle, restorative yoga that helps calm your mind and body.
Consider the duration of classes when choosing an online yoga class. If you like more than one class, go for a yoga program that combines different classes. The class titles and descriptions may have most of the information you need to pick a class. You may also contact the yoga coaches for more information about their classes.
2. Create a Dedicated Space in Your Home
Find a quiet spot in your home where you can do your classes without distractions. This could be a spot in your bedroom, living room, or spare room. The place you choose should be well-lit and clutter-free to avoid accidents.
Adjust the temperature in your yoga room to your liking, and set up your yoga mat and other props nearby. You can also light some candles and create a yoga playlist to help set the mood before your classes.
3. Set a Schedule
Committing to a schedule helps you to remain consistent with your classes. Carve out a few minutes in your day for your online yoga classes. You can do shorter sessions on busy days and try a longer class when you have more time.
When you set a schedule, stick to it to build a habit of exercising. Schedule a yoga session daily to make yoga part of your routine. Early morning, after work, or just before bedtime is an ideal time to do your yoga class. If you are unsure if yoga is for you, start with a few minutes every day, and if you like it, take longer classes.
4. Get the Necessary Yoga Equipment
Find a yoga mat that is big enough for you to move freely as you exercise. Invest in a few pairs of yoga pants to have something comfortable to wear as you exercise. Props like yoga blocks, a bolster, and yoga straps are also useful for doing some yoga poses.
If you are trying yoga and are not sure you will stick to it long-term, you can improvise to avoid spending money on items you only need temporarily. You can use a stack of books as a yoga block and stacked pillows and blankets as a bolster.
5. Be Kind to Yourself
Although yoga looks easy, you may not immediately get all the poses. Give your body time to adjust, and do not feel bad if you cannot finish a yoga session. You can slow down if you feel your teacher is moving too fast. You can pause the video to take a breath and rewind the video as many times as you need to understand the dynamics of a particular pose.
While doing yoga poses, be mindful of vulnerable areas like your neck, knees, and spine. Adjust or come out of a pose if you feel pain. Be careful during transitions between poses to minimize your risk of injury. Listen to your body, and avoid forcing yourself into painful or uncomfortable poses.
6. Get a Yoga Buddy
A support system can give you the extra encouragement you need to remain consistent. Have a friend or two join your yoga class and hold you accountable. Paying for online yoga classes with your friends or partner also gives you more value for your money. Create a group chat with friends and other yoga enthusiasts and share your progress.
Get Started With Online Yoga Classes
If you want to start yoga but can never find the right time, sign up for online yoga classes and see where it takes you. You get similar benefits from online classes as someone attending physical classes all from the comfort of your home. Find a quality online yoga class to get started today.
