Beginner's guide
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Beginner's guide
A help page for studios, gyms and online class memberships that want new people to feel at ease before they walk in. It covers which classes suit beginners, what to wear and bring, what happens from arrival to the end of a first class, simple etiquette, how to start with online classes at home and a gentle four-week plan, with quick answers at the end. Rename the classes to match your timetable, update the practical details and link to it from your trial and sign-up pages.
A beginner's guide to your first classes
Never been to a yoga or fitness class before? You're in exactly the right place. Most people at Northside Yoga & Fitness started as beginners, and this guide answers the questions they wish they'd asked before their first visit.
Where to start
Every class on our timetable has a level. As a beginner, these are the best places to begin:
Gentle Yoga
Slow, steady poses with lots of explanation and plenty of rest. Ideal if you're new, stiff or coming back after a break.
Strength Foundations
Learn squats, hinges, presses and carries with light weights and close coaching. No experience needed.
Beginners' Yoga Series
Four Thursday evenings with Linda Sorensen, building the basics one week at a time. Included in every studio plan.
Once you feel comfortable, try Slow Flow, Pilates Mat or All Levels Vinyasa. Leave Power and Hot Vinyasa for a month or two in.
What to wear and bring
Wear
- comfortable clothes you can stretch in, not too loose
- bare feet for yoga and Pilates
- clean sneakers for strength, HIIT and cycle
- layers in winter; the studios are warm once class starts
Bring
- a water bottle (we have a filtered refill station)
- your own mat if you have one; ours are free to borrow
- a small towel for Hot Vinyasa and HIIT
- an open mind and no expectations
Your first class, step by step
- Book ahead. Reserve a spot online or in the app, so you know there's room for you.
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Check in at the front desk. We'll show you the lockers, restrooms and which studio you're in.
- Meet your instructor. Tell them it's your first class and about any injuries or health conditions. They'll offer options throughout.
- Set up near the middle. It's easier to follow other people than to be at the front. The back row is fine too.
- Go at your own pace. Rest whenever you need to. Child's pose, or simply sitting down, is always allowed.
- Stay for the end. The final few minutes of rest are many people's favorite part. Then put your props away and say hello.
A few studio basics
- Silence your phone and leave it in a locker or cubby.
- Arriving late? Come in quietly. After 10 minutes, we may ask you to join the next class for your safety.
- Wipe down mats and equipment after class. Spray and cloths are by the door.
- Skip strong perfume and cologne, especially in heated classes.
- Cancel at least 4 hours ahead if you can't make it, so someone on the waitlist can take your spot.
Starting online at home
Prefer to begin in your living room? Northside Online has a Start Here collection of ten short classes, filmed for complete beginners. Clear a space about the size of a yoga mat, prop your phone or laptop where you can see it, and choose a time of day you can keep to.
Start with two short classes a week rather than one long one. Consistency is what changes how your body feels, not intensity.
Your first four weeks
| Week | Aim for | Try |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 classes | Gentle Yoga and Strength Foundations |
| 2 | 2 to 3 classes | Add a 20-minute online class at home |
| 3 | 3 classes | Try Slow Flow or Pilates Mat |
| 4 | 3 classes | Pick your favorites and make them a weekly habit |
Feeling a little sore a day or two after class is normal in the first weeks. Sharp pain is not: stop, and tell your instructor.
Common questions
I'm not flexible. Can I still do yoga?
Yes. Flexibility is something yoga builds, not something you need before you start. We have blocks and straps to bring the floor closer.
Will I be the only beginner?
Almost never. Most classes have someone new in them, and every class has options for different levels.
I have an injury or a health condition.
Talk to your doctor first, then tell your instructor before class. Linda Sorensen is a certified yoga therapist and is happy to suggest the right classes for you.
Is there a free trial?
Yes. Your first 14 days are free, with unlimited studio and online classes and a welcome session with an instructor.
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