What type of equipment do you need to start your new yoga practice?
The list of items or equipment you need is not an extensive one to start your yoga practice comfortably. Knowing what equipment to have makes going to your first yoga class a breeze.
Clothing
You can probably find an array of clothes in your closet that will work in a yoga class. Comfortable work-out type clothes work the best. Shirts or tops should be form fitting. Loose shirts fall on your face and head when you are in upside yoga poses and can be quite uncomfortable. Exercise pants, shorts or capris work well for yoga. For hot yoga classes long pants are great. Many poses require you to hold your legs and the clothing keeps your grip from slipping on your sweaty legs. Yoga is practiced barefoot. No shoes in the classroom or on your mat.
Towel
A medium to large size towel is carried practically by all to a yoga class. You use a towel to wipe your brow throughout the class. Some students bring two towels: one to wipe off sweat and the other on top of their yoga mats to minimize slipping on the mat. Special “skidless” yoga towels are on the market to fit on top of your mat perfectly, but a special towel can costs from $30 to $65. A beach towel on the mat works too.
Yoga Mat
If you practice yoga in a studio you will need a yoga mat. The wooden flooring can be very slippery and it is a hard surface. Yoga mat provides a needed cushioning and reduces the risk of slipping. You can purchase a yoga mat almost everywhere these days. The prices start at around $10 and some eco-friendly specialty mats can run you close to $100. Some studios offer yoga mats for sale, for rent, or for free to use in their classes. If you practice yoga elsewhere: at home, on carpet etc. a yoga mat is not a must have, but it can help define your practice area and give a non-slip surface for your yoga session.
Other Props
Blocks, Straps and Blankets. Many studios have yoga props for you to use. You of course, can bring your own. These are optional and may make getting into some positions easier, especially in the early going. Other yoga props may include exercise ball, weights, even a chair.
