What to expect at your first yoga class in Auckland

The first time I walked into a yoga studio I wore cotton, brought no water and had no idea what to do with my arms during the breathing. I lay there for the final relaxation thinking the teacher would come over and tell me when it was over. They did not. Everyone else got up. I got up too. It was fine.

If you are about to do your first yoga class in Auckland, this is what I wish someone had told me.

Before the class

Pick the right class. Look for “beginner,” “Intro To Yoga,” “Slow Flow,” “Hatha” or “Flow Yoga” on the studio timetable. Avoid anything labelled “Level 2,” “Intermediate,” “Advanced,” “Mysore” or “Hot HIIT” as a first class. If in doubt, email the studio and ask.

Don’t eat a big meal in the two hours before. A light snack an hour before is fine. A burger 30 minutes before will haunt you in downward dog.

Drink water through the day, especially if you are doing a heated class.

Wear what you would wear to the gym. Stretchy, comfortable, not too baggy (loose clothing gets in the way in forward folds). Avoid cotton if you are doing hot yoga (it gets heavy when wet). Lululemon, Lorna Jane, Nimble and Embodyme are all locally available and reliable.

Bring water, a small towel and minimal jewellery. Leave watches, big rings and dangly earrings at home.

Arriving at the studio

Arrive 10 minutes early. This is not optional. Walking in late is awkward for everyone and many studios lock the door once class starts.

Sign in. Most studios use an app (Momence, Mindbody, Kenkō’s own app, ClassPass) or a paper sign-in. Tell reception you are new. They will show you where to put your shoes, where the changing room is, and where the studio room is.

Tell the teacher you are new. Walk up before class starts and say “this is my first class.” Most teachers will check in with you during the practice and offer modifications. This is normal and welcomed.

Set up your mat. Studios provide mats almost universally in Auckland. Find a spot in the middle or back of the room (not the front; you cannot copy other people from the front). Lay your towel and water bottle to one side.

During the class

Breathe through your nose unless the teacher specifically says otherwise. If the breath gets ragged, slow down or rest.

Modify everything. If a posture is too hard, take an easier version. Teachers will offer modifications. If they do not, ask.

Child’s pose is always available. Kneel down, sit your bum on your heels, and rest your forehead on the floor. This is the universal rest position. Take it whenever you need to.

Do not compare yourself to the person next to you. Their hamstrings have nothing to do with yours.

You will be confused at points. Everyone is. Look around, copy what you see, breathe.

If you feel dizzy, light-headed or unwell, lie down. Teachers expect this and will not be offended.

Savasana

The final five to ten minutes of class. You lie on your back, eyes closed, and the teacher will talk you through a relaxation. Stay for it. This is the most important part of the class. Do not get up and leave.

When the teacher rings a bell or asks you to start moving, slowly come to a seated position. There may be a closing chant or moment of silence. Then class is over.

After class

Hydrate. Especially after a hot class.

Eat something within 30 minutes. Protein and complex carbs are ideal.

Notice how you feel. This is the part the practice is actually for.

Plan your next class. Two or three sessions a week for the first month is the sweet spot for building a regular practice.

Where to start in Auckland

For your first class, I would recommend one of these:

The Yoga Ground, Grey Lynn. Kara Sweney’s vinyasa or Liana Yew’s beginner-friendly classes. Six-week Intro course available for $169.

Auckland Yoga Academy, Federal Street. $49 month of unlimited beginner classes. Talked-through traditional teaching.

Kenkō Studios, Eden Terrace. Flow Yoga with Sarah Stockton on a Friday morning. Gentle, breath-led, perfect first class. Intro $50 for two weeks.

The Loft Yoga Lounge, Beach Road. $9 for yoga and a vegetarian dinner. Non-intimidating community entry.

FAQ

Do I need to be flexible to start yoga? No. Flexibility is what yoga builds, not what it requires. Most people are inflexible when they start.

What should I wear to my first yoga class? Stretchy comfortable workout clothes. Avoid loose tops and cotton for hot yoga. Sports bra and leggings or shorts is standard.

Do I need to bring my own mat? Most Auckland studios provide mats. Bringing your own is fine but not necessary at first.

What does namaste mean? Loosely translated, “the light in me honours the light in you.” Some teachers use it at the end of class, some do not. You can say it back or just smile. There is no etiquette test.

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