Post by gustafngrete on Mar 28, 2015 20:06:55 GMT -5
I want to start doing yoga, but I haven't done it since pre-natal (8-10 years ago.) I tried a session at my gym and I really couldn't do a lot of the poses (I wasn't strong or flexible enough). Also, the teacher had to keep coming over and re-positioning me. Finally, he asked me if it was my first time. So far I haven't been back. Is there a good resource for trying it on my own at first? Like yoga 101? Trying out a new gym/yoga studio (unfortunately) is not an option as we have a family member at our place and it's where our boys swim.
If your posture is bad doing it on your own isn't going to help correct that. I would look for a studio that specifically offers a beginners class or series.
I really think going back to the class is the best option, a good instructor will suggest modifications if you are having trouble with some of the posses. If you go back try getting to the class a little early and asking the instructor if s/he can offer more modifications.
There are a lot of good yoga apps and internet resources, but I agree that you should try to do some more in class instruction first to make sure you're doing things correctly.
I just started in the fall, and I went to a 6-week intro class first. We have a really small studio in town with small classes, but the instructor still recommends you take the intro class or a few private sessions before attending her regular vinyasa. Even though I'm still a beginner, I can mostly keep up in regular class with the basics. Without the intro I would have really struggled and slowed down the whole class.
Can you call and see if any sort of intro class happens during each season or if a private session is available? I hope you can keep going because I really think it's beneficial, but I'm sure it's frustrating for you to keep up if you haven't practiced yoga for 8-10 years.
Good luck! Also, one of the apps I like best is yoga studio. I think it complements a class well, and you can pick and choose type and difficulty levels.
I would encourage you to do an intro class. I have zero problems with an instructor correcting my posture because the intent isn't to embarrass me but to help me.
Post by Wines Not Whines on Mar 29, 2015 8:13:55 GMT -5
Yes, go to an intro class if you can find one. I've been doing yoga for 6-7 years and my instructors still correct me and help with positioning in poses, even fairly basic poses. It's normal and nothing to be embarrassed about.
Post by Raggedeannie on Mar 31, 2015 10:38:54 GMT -5
To echo all of the others, I also did a 6-week intro class and found it really useful. It was once a week and each class focused on breaking down just a few poses. I supplemented by still going to normal classes throughout the week to try out the things I had learned at the intro class. I also formed a great relationship with the teacher and still go to her classes. Can you ask at the gym/studio you go to if they offer anything like this, or if they have thought about it and could consider adding something to the schedule?
Post by gustafngrete on Mar 31, 2015 11:12:17 GMT -5
Upon closer inspection, my gym offers a "gentle yoga" class that is supposed to help you gain flexibility if you have trouble getting into the traditional poses. It sounds like the one for me. Doesn't fit my work schedule right now, but I can try it out this summer.
A really great instructor once said in class something like: "oh, you aren't strong enough, flexible enough, and can't do what everyone else can in class? That is why you are here!"!!
That really resonated with me and kept me going to class with a live instructor who could encourage and help me along.