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Around 300 million people around the world practice yoga. Yoga is a great way to get some exercise and center yourself at the same time. This stress-reducing workout has gained in popularity over the years, and while you might question whether your body actually bends the directions required for certain stretches, it’s good to check out a class once or twice.
However, before you head to your local yoga studio, you need some supplies. From the basics to more, keep reading as we discuss what you need for your yoga classes.
A Yoga Mat
While some studios provide loaner mats, you really want your own yoga mat. The right yoga mat will help enhance your practice, and you won’t have to worry about other people’s germs from them sweating over the communal mats.
There are a few things you should look for when choosing a yoga mat.
Materials
Yoga mats are made out of a variety of materials. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Mats made out of PVC are durable and easy to clean. They also grip the floor well. However, PVC mats aren’t absorbent. If you’re a heavy sweater, this can lead to your mat becoming slippery.
Mats made from TPC are a little more environmentally friendly. However, they’re less durable.
Another common material used is natural rubber. These mats are eco-friendly, but if made incorrectly, you can sacrifice some of the grip on the floor.
The benefit is that they provide great traction for your body. An example of yoga mats made out of natural rubber would be these yoga mats sold in Australia, these mats show that just because you’re going eco, it doesn’t mean that they need to be a boring solid color or design. Mats made from natural rubber also have the added benefit of being easy to clean.
Mat Thickness
There are a few things to think about when it comes to the thickness of your mat. First, thicker mats generally last longer; however, they’re not ideal for every type of yoga practice. The type of mat you choose depends on your practice.
For example, thicker yoga mats are better for therapeutic practices. With this style of yoga, you often hold poses for longer periods of time. They’re also great if you do a lot of stretches that require kneeling or resting on your forearms. They can help protect your knees and other joints. The downside to the thicker mats is that they can make balance difficult when doing poses where you’re standing.
If your yoga practice is more active, you’ll want to look at thinner mats. Thinner mats provide increased stability when you’re completing active poses. If your yoga practice is very strenuous, make sure to look for a mat with a more textured surface that provides a better grip.
Yoga Clothes
Next up on our list are the right clothes. Yoga does require a lot of flexibility, so wearing the wrong clothes can make it difficult to complete some of the poses. You want to wear clothes that are comfortable and stay in place.
Yoga Pants and Top
Technically, you can complete a yoga class in loose clothing; however, it’s not a good idea. Some yoga poses require you to go upside down or wide-legged. Loose clothes can offer a view to others in the room that you don’t want to offer.
Form-fitting clothes are a great idea for your yoga class. This ensures you stay covered and are still comfortable.
Yoga Socks
While many people practice yoga barefoot, it can be a challenge for others to do so. Not only can your feet end up cold, but you might also end up struggling to maintain your grip if your feet slide. Yoga socks often will leave your toes and the top of your feet open while providing extra grip on your mat.
Yoga Gloves
This is another item that’s optional, but it can enhance your practice. This is great for people who struggle with sweaty hands that want to slide out from underneath them. These gloves are often fingerless, but they have pads on the hands to help give you extra grip, even when your hands are sweating.
A Good Hair Tie
This one is for you ladies (and men) with long beautiful locks. While it’s great to show that hair off, when you’re in the middle of a downward dog, it can be frustrating when your hair is in your eyes and mouth. Make sure you have a good hair tie that’s not at risk of breaking mid-pose.
Yoga Towels
When you’re looking at yoga towels, there are two types to consider. The first type is a longer yoga towel you can place over your mat. Yoga towels are great for absorbing sweat and helping your mat last for a longer period of time. They’re also easy to clean because you can toss them in the wash as long as you follow all instructions.
The next type of towel you might want to consider is a smaller microfiber towel. During your yoga class, you will sweat. Having a smaller towel on hand can help keep the sweat out of your eyes and help you maintain your grip.
Yoga Bags or Slings
This is another item that’s not required, but it is handy. Yoga bags and swings help keep your mat rolled up when you’re transporting it. It can also help protect your mat from the elements. This is nice to have when you’re moving your mat back and forth between home and your local yoga studio.
Yoga Mat Wash
When you buy a yoga mat, you want it to last. While you can certainly clean your mat with disinfectants, some of the chemicals can be harsh on the materials. Yoga mat wash is designed specifically for your yoga mat, so it doesn’t eat away at the outer layers. It also leaves your mat smelling great instead of like a sweaty locker room.
Are you ready to head out the door for your yoga class? Make sure you have the tools you need for a successful class, and then have fun!
