New to yoga? Here’s what you need to get started
(Tjis Yoga for Beginners Kit from Gaiam is a great way to get acquainted with the practice).
(Marrakesh stainless steel water bottle from Gaiam).
By Brittany Anas
So you decided after the holidays you need some stress relief and you wound up exploring yoga. Good idea.
The practice not only relieves stress, but it also helps with flexibility and strength. But, unlike other group fitness classes that you’ve probably signed up for — you’ll need to bring some of your own gear to class and the fit of your clothes are important.
Money-saving tip: For all things yoga, shop Gaiam, where you’ll get an extra 6 percent Cash Back from ShopAtHome.com. Plus, you’ll get 15 percent off when you join Gaiam’s mailing list.
Here’s a primer on what you’ll need for your first yoga class.
- BYOM: Bring your own mat. It’s a smart starter investment. Here’s why: If you don’t end up liking yoga, you can still use the mat in gym studios or for at-home workouts on your hardwood floors. Because you sweat on it, and likely even go barefoot on it, a mat is something that you don’t necessarily want to share with strangers.Get started with a Yoga for Beginners Kit from Gaiam, which is on sale for $24. The kit comes with an alignment yoga mat, brick and strap to build a solid foundation and a quick tutorial DVD from yoga expert Rodney Yee. The kit also includes a yoga brick 6′ yoga strap and two full-length yoga workouts. There’s also a seated meditation preparation routine. Make sure you like yoga and will be back for more before you buy extras — like a mat carrier bag and other accessories.
- Yoga clothes: Ditch the baggy shirts and pants. You want clothes that hug your body more so that they don’t move around during class. Also, you’ll be able to observe your poses and silhouettes in the mirror. Check out Gaiam’s selection of yoga apparel.
- Bring a water bottle. A must-have for class. We love the design of this BPA-free Marrakesh Stainless Steel Water Bottle that is on sale for $10.38.
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