Yoga for Beginners at Home

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, YACEP

Since COVID arrived, many instructors are interested in teaching online Yoga for beginners at home. Generally speaking, when we move into warmer temperatures in the northern hemisphere our windows open, which changes, restrictions, mask use, and so on. However, we don’t know what the restrictions will be in the near or distant future. If you were to ask any Yoga instructor, he or she would surely agree that videos are useful educational tools, but not all videos are equal. Yet, he or she would also probably admit that the right Yoga videos could enrich your experience. For the most part, video training helps you gain more insight into this incredible health maintenance system.

Live or Pre-Recorded Classes?

With cloud-based video communication apps such as Zoom, it’s possible to learn or teach Yoga live. This gives brand new students a way to begin learning Yoga and receive live feedback. So, when does it make sense for beginners to use pre-recorded streaming videos or DVDs at home? What are the main benefits of doing so? If a student understands the basics, pre-recorded classes make sense. In fact, pre-recorded classes take place when the student has time. For instance, videos offer exceptional educational value and can go a long way toward enhancing a student’s Yoga experience.

Can Students Learn Yoga from Scratch with Videos?

As educational and as well-made as Yoga videos can be, they may not be suitable for true beginners. There are plenty of instructional streaming videos and DVDs about Yoga for beginners, but many personal variables can get in the way. By getting some live instruction first, you can ensure that you are practicing properly. With the guidance of a skilled Yoga instructor, you will receive the personalized attention that you need to get off to the best possible start. Therefore, learning the basics of Yoga for beginners at home with a video is a reality.

Live Classes Online

Looking for an at-home yoga workout that’s tailored specifically for beginners? Check out live subscription-based yoga classes. These classes are designed to help you ease into a regular Yoga practice, with each class building on the previous one. You’ll learn all the basic Yoga poses and breathing techniques, as well as how to connect your mind and body through movement. Plus, experienced instructors will be there to answer any questions you have and provide modifications as needed.

Pre-Recorded Yoga Classes

There are many subscription-based pre-recorded Yoga classes for beginners that you can do at home. These classes provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to properly do each technique. They also offer modifications for each pose, so you can make it easier or harder depending on your level of fitness. In addition, they often have music playing in the background, which can help you relax and focus on your practice. Of course, there are also many beginner friendly videos on YouTube and Daily Motion.

Developing Self-Confidence at Home

Practicing at home, when you feel self-conscious about doing Yoga in front of others makes sense. Under those circumstances, at home Yoga videos give you the opportunity to try different techniques before heading out to class. In effect, videos allow you to gain some much-needed confidence before stepping into a Yoga school. Videos and DVDs also come in handy for people who travel a great deal for business. When used properly, streaming videos or DVDs can enrich a student’s Yoga training experience. Whether you’re just learning the basics, or have been teaching for years, there are sure to be videos out there that truly bring value to your life.

For Yoga Teachers Only

For experienced teachers who already have a good foundation in the basics of a particular style, videos, from different styles, can really broaden horizons. If you don’t live in a big city, for instance, you may struggle to find specialized Yoga classes. If you’re curious about Bikram, Ashtanga, Kundalini, or other styles of Yoga, but cannot find suitable classes in your area, streaming videos and DVDs are excellent alternatives. From the comfort of home, you can learn the basics of different styles and gain a lot of advanced knowledge about Yoga, in general. Indeed, this is also a great way to zero in on a particular style. Before signing up for teacher workshops, intensive training, or continuing education courses, you have a basic understanding.

Teaching Online

The global pandemic has forced many yoga instructors to take their classes online. Some may be reluctant to do so, but there are actually many benefits to teaching Yoga online. Yoga instructors should provide online Yoga classes for beginners and experienced students for a number of reasons. First, it makes Yoga accessible to everyone, regardless of their location. Second, online Yoga classes can be customized to each individual’s needs and pace. Third, online Yoga classes provide a more personal experience than large group classes. Fourth, online classes allow students to rewind and review sections as needed. Finally, online sessions are often more affordable than in-person classes.

Building on Foundations of Knowledge

In a word, continuing education is an important factor in teaching skills. Additionally, specialist teacher training courses with streaming videos or DVDs give an experienced teacher a foundation from which to expand knowledge and develop new teaching skills. Obviously, constructive knowledge in the hands of an experienced Yoga instructor can enhance a Yoga teacher’s skills and performance. At the same time, videos are a great way to introduce yourself to the public. Certainly, reaching out on the Internet with a “Yoga for beginners at home” program is a great way to meet new students.