How to Practice Yoga in Group

Today, group classes are the most popular way to practice yoga. During a group yoga class, a group of students will be taught by a single instructor. Typically, the instructor will stand at the front of the class and each student will mirror his or her movement. As a number of students are being taught simultaneously, group classes are more affordable than private tuition. Although there is no one-to-one support, the instructor can still help you to perfect each asana and prevent you from injuring yourself. For your first group class, all you’ll need is a comfortable yoga T-shirt. In this article, we explore group yoga in more detail.

Benefits of Group Yoga

More Affordable

As mentioned previously, group yoga classes are more affordable than private ones. This is because a number of students are being taught at the same time, so the instructor can charge less per person than they could for a one-to-one lesson. Although there are benefits to private classes, group classes are ideal for those who just want to learn the craft. If you have any physical limitations, discuss these with your instructor before the class starts; this way, they can help you to adapt each posture to suit your needs. While they cannot offer one-to-one support, the instructor is on-hand for any questions or queries that you may have. Additionally, they will make sure that you are practising each asana correctly. After showing you how to practice the pose, the instructor will make their way around the class and check each student’s form. Not only will correct form allow you to get the most from each pose, but it will also prevent you from injuring yourself during the process.

Make New Friends

Another benefit of group yoga is the social aspect. When you attend a weekly class, you’re guaranteed to make a bunch of new friends. Although each student is there for a different reason, everybody is there to achieve their goal. Surrounding yourself with motivated individuals will help you to stay motivated, too. As well as helping each other during the class, yogis always make time for a catch-up. If there isn’t time in the session, some students choose to meet up outside of the studio. Whether you grab a coffee after class or meet up for a drink at the weekend, you’re guaranteed to have a great time with like-minded individuals.

Equipment is Provided

In a group session, the only thing you need to bring is yourself! Typically, all the equipment you need is provided. The studio will normally have a supply of mats, blocks, and bolsters for students to use in the sessions. However, it’s worth checking that they offer these things before your first class. Occasionally, the studio may prefer you to bring your own props; this is often the case for large classes as there may not be enough communal equipment to go around. If you also practice at home, it’s likely that you have your own supply anyway. In this case, it may be best to take your own equipment along just to make sure. Some yogis prefer to take their own mats, anyway, as communal mats can be unhygienic. With all the bugs around at this time of year, bringing your own clean mat will ensure you don’t pick up anything.

Try Different Styles

The great thing about group yoga is that you can try out different styles. Most studios will offer a variety of different classes, ranging from dynamic vinyasa flow to slow-paced restorative. If you’re a member of the studio, you’ll be able to try out everything they have on offer. This is ideal for newbies, particularly those who aren’t sure what style suits them best. If you decide you like a few different classes, you can alternate throughout the month or just attend them all!

Learn from Other Yogis

As well as learning from your instructor, a group class allows you to learn from other yogis. If the teacher is busy with another student, ask the person next to you for advice. Even if they’re unsure themselves, striking a conversation is never a bad thing. Being unsure together is always better than being unsure on your own!

How a Group Class Works

If you’re thinking of attending a group class, you’re probably wondering how it all works. Although each class is different, the basic structure of each session is similar. If you can, get to the studio 10 minutes early. This will allow you to catch up with your instructor before the lesson starts and get your mat set up. When everybody is ready, the instructor will demonstrate a few warm-up postures. Students can then practice these by mirroring the movement of the teacher. Next, it’s time to move onto the main postures. Depending on the style of the class, the asanas may be fast or slow-paced. If you’re unsure of anything, look around the class at the other students. Notice how they are practising the asana and follow suit. If you’re still confused, wait for the instructor to come around and then ask her for help. Once the main asanas are finished, the session will usually end with a few minutes of reflection. In many classes, students are encouraged to practice Corpse Pose and concentrate on their breathing. During this time, you can either reflect on the session or close your eyes and relax before heading home.

In Summary

Whether you’re an experienced yogi or a complete beginner, group yoga classes can help you to improve your practice. Many studios offer classes based on your ability; for instance, there may be a beginners class, an intermediate class, and an experienced class. If you’re unsure, always start with the beginners class and work your way up. If the studio provides equipment, all you’ll need to bring is a bottle of water and some comfortable yoga clothes. During the colder months, we advise layering up with a yoga hoodie to keep you warm during the session.