3 Reasons To Let Your Yoga Instructor Know That You're A First-Timer

You might feel a bit of apprehension when you walk into a yoga studio for your first-ever class, but it's important to remember that this is a judgment-free environment. Knowing this should help you to relax a little, but you may also want to connect with the instructor before the class begins to let him or her know of your novice status. Many yoga practitioners do so, which can be advantageous for both the student and the teacher. Here are three reasons that it's a good idea to let your yoga instructor know that you're attending your first class.

1. You Won't Feel As Awkward

When you're a first timer, it's easy to start to feel awkward when you realize that you're having trouble keeping up. While it's always good to take a novice class rather than one for intermediate or advanced practitioners, the reality is that you may still find some of the poses a little challenging. It's not very fun to realize that you're struggling and begin wondering what the teacher might be thinking about your efforts. When you make it clear that you're a beginner, you shouldn't have this worry.

2. You'll Get Extra Help

Yoga instructors commonly appreciate knowing where their first-time students are. This doesn't mean that the instructor will necessarily change the structure of the class — remember, not everyone is there for the first time — but it does mean that he or she will keep an eye on you and provide extra help whenever it appears as though you need it. For example, if most of the class is effectively holding a certain pose, but you're having difficulty doing so, the instructor will often appear by your side and physically assist you. It's always nice to know that help is on its way, and you'll have this confidence when you let your instructor know that you're attending your first class.

3. The Instructor May Explain More

When a yoga instructor knows that there's a first-timer taking part in the class, he or she may get into the habit of explaining more. Different teachers have different styles, but some tend to simply name the more common postures. For example, "Now we move into downward-facing dog." With an awareness of you being a first-timer, you may notice that the instructor works to explain things more. Instead of simply offering the name of a pose, he or she may offer a few tips on how to perform it. 

For more information, contact your local yoga classes.