Can’t make it to the studio? Online yoga provides an accessible alternative for anyone seeking yoga’s benefits from the comfort of home. Virtual classes allow customizing your practice schedule while still receiving dynamic instruction. Read on for tips on making the most of online yoga courses as a beginner, from choosing teacher-led vs. self-guided classes to setting up your home practice space.
Table of Contents
You may also want to know: How to Start a Yoga Practice
Benefits of Online Yoga Course
Reasons virtual yoga has become popular include:
- Convenience – Practice anytime without leaving home. Fits busy schedules.
- Flexibility – Take live or recorded classes on demand.
- Affordability – Online classes cost less than studio fees over time.
- Accessibility – Removes barriers like transportation to a studio.
- Variety – Choose from many styles and instructors for personalized practice.
- Privacy – More comfortable practicing from home for those hesitant about in-person.
- Customization – Self-paced courses allow focusing on specific poses or areas of interest.
- Community – Livestream classes let you connect with a virtual yoga sangha.
- Beginner-friendly – Instructional basics content perfect for new yogis.
While virtual lacks hands-on adjustments, the diversity and convenience are unparalleled.
Choosing Livestream vs. Pre-Recorded
Virtual yoga classes come in two main formats:
Livestream – Join classes in real-time broadcast by teachers. Mimics in-studio experience.
Pros: Motivation of group energy, real-time feedback, social component
Cons: Less flexibility, must join at set class times
Pre-recorded – Follow along anytime with pre-filmed yoga videos.
Pros: Practice anytime, faster pace control, replay pose guidance
Cons: No instructor adjustments or energy in the live class
Try both to see which you prefer based on your learning style and schedule flexibility.
Finding the Right Online Yoga Platform
Many membership sites offer virtual yoga ranging from boutique studios to international platforms like:
- YogaGlo – Diverse class styles and renowned teachers. For all levels.
- Glo – Curated yoga, meditation, Pilates. Track progress over time.
- Cure. fit – India-based platform. Range of fitness and mental health content.
- CorePower Online – Classes from a popular US yoga studio chain.
- Gaia – Yoga, meditation, original content on mind-body topics.
- Peloton App – Range of class lengths and intensities. Also equipment-based workouts.
- Down Dog – Customizable practice with instruction level adjustability.
Sample different services for teacher chemistry, content library, price, and versatility. Most offer initial discounted periods or free trials.
Setting Up Your Practice Space
To get the most from online yoga at home:
- Define your space – Clear an open area from clutter and distractions.
- Use a mat – Provides cushion and a yoga feel even if practicing on a carpet.
- Prop up device – Position the device for easy viewing of the instructor without strain.
- Adjust audio – Ensure the volume is adequate to follow teacher cues.
- Modify lighting – Soft, consistent lighting allows you to see and avoid shadows.
- Minimize distractions – Silence phone, and close computer notifications.
- Gather props – Have blocks, straps, and blankets handy to support poses.
Treating home practice with the same intention as studio classes will improve focus and experience.
Getting Started as a Beginner
For those new to yoga trying online classes:
- Choose beginner-level classes to learn foundations properly.
- Don’t get discouraged – flexibility and stamina improve over time.
- Pause and replay instructions to grasp pose details.
- Use props to support proper alignment until strength builds.
- Take modifications to honor your personal limits.
- Focus on breath and steady pacing rather than forcing depth.
- Stick with instructors whose cues and energy you like.
- Complement practice with restorative self-care like sleep, nutrition, and leisure time.
Virtual yoga allows anyone to benefit from expert guidance right at home. Embrace the journey with patience and self-compassion.
Related Links:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga