What Supplies Do I Bring to a Yoga Class

One of the times people try new things, including yoga class, is a the beginning of the year. There are not a lot of items needed for a yoga class, but there are some basic items a yoga student needs to have an enjoyable yoga experience.

For students who are new to yoga, there are questions about what type of equipment, clothing or extras are needed for class. At some yoga studios there arespecific item suggestions, while others do not address the issue.

In general, there are some basic items to bring to any yoga class. Some of these items you may already have, others you will need to purchase.

1. Loose Clothing

A simple loose t-shirt and sweatpants or work out pants will suffice for a yoga class. You do not need to purchase any special clothing. Keep in mind that there is a lot of stretching involved in yoga, and you may want to wear shirt that fits comfortably when you stretch in either direction, or when sitting.

It is especially important to wear a long enough shirt to cover your midriff when you lift your arms over your head or stretch them out to the sides.

2. A Pair of Warm Socks

Yoga is best practiced barefoot. Bring socks for the end of class meditation when your body will cool down and your feet might get chilly.

3. A Zip-Up or Pull-Over Sweatshirt

The sweatshirt will also come in handy for the meditation portion of class. In most yoga studios it is possible that you might start your work out with the sweatshirt on and remove it as your body heats up with the gentle movements. During the cool down portion and meditation it may be warmer to put the sweatshirt back on.

4. Yoga Mat

A yoga mat can be purchased at the yoga studio or at a gym where there are yoga classes. It is less expensive to purchase a yoga mat at any discount retailer. For example, places like Ocean State Job Lot sell the same type of mats for around $5. Or, it is possible to buy a yoga mat with a pretty handled fabric back for about $15 at stores like Marshalls.

There are extra-long yoga mats available from specialty stores, but for the average yoga student, they are not needed.

5. Towel