Your First Yoga Class at Fitness First: 5 Beginner Tips

Your First Yoga Class: 5 Essential Tips for Beginners

04 Mar 2025

Nervous about your first yoga class? You’re not alone and you’re exactly where you need to be. Whether you’re wondering what to wear, what to bring, or how to follow along, these five beginner-friendly tips will help you walk into any yoga studio with confidence.

And yes, you absolutely can do this.

1. What to Wear to Your First Yoga Class

You don’t need high-end activewear. All that matters is comfort and flexibility. Choose breathable clothes that let you move easily. Think leggings, joggers, or soft shorts paired with a fitted T-shirt or tank top. Loose or baggy items can get in the way during certain poses.

Unlike pilates where grippy socks are sometimes used, yoga is practiced barefoot, so leave your shoes (and socks) at the door. Let your feet ground you.

2. What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home)

The essentials:

A water bottle to stay hydrated
A small and large towel to place on top of the yoga mat (especially helpful if your class is dynamic, like our hot yoga flow)

Don't have a yoga mat? No need to invest in one just yet. Fitness First provides mats at all our studios in every club. Nevertheless, if you have one you're more accustomed to, you’re welcome to bring your own. But it’s absolutely not required for your first class.

Our wide range of yoga classes at Fitness First cater to everyone - from beginners to seasoned yogis who like a hot, dynamic flow.

3. Arrive Early to Settle In

Like all our group exercise classes, you're encouraged to arrive 10–15 minutes before class starts. This gives you time to check in, use the restroom, chat with the instructor, and find a spot where you feel comfortable.

Not sure where to set up? Ask your instructor. Some beginners prefer the back row to quietly follow along, while others feel more focused near the front. There’s no right answer, just what feels right to you.

4. Listen to Your Body, Always

Your instructor is there to guide you, but your body is the true expert. If something doesn’t feel right, modify or just take rest - no explanation needed.

Child’s Pose is always an option. It’s not a sign of weakness or giving up. On the contrary, it’s a sign you’re listening to your body. And that’s what yoga is really about.

5. Let Go of Perfection and Just Begin

Everyone in the room was a beginner once. Yoga isn’t about nailing the pose or keeping up with everyone else, it’s about connecting with yourself, breath by breath.

Remember, yoga is not about being bendy. You don’t need to be flexible. You don’t need to be fit. You just need to show up with an open mind and a willingness to try.