Choosing the right yoga class when you’re plus-sized can feel like a daunting task.
But it doesn’t have to be.
We all deserve to feel comfortable, accepted, and challenged in our yoga practice, no matter our body type.
And guess what?
There are some easy ways to ensure just that.
Here are eight practical tips to help you pick the perfect yoga class for your beautiful, plus-sized body.
1) Do your research
The yoga scene is vast and varied, with a multitude of styles, studios and instructors to choose from.
But not all yoga classes are created equal, especially when it comes to accommodating plus-sized bodies.
This is where doing your homework comes in.
Research different studios, styles and instructors. Look for classes that emphasize body positivity and inclusivity.
Check out online reviews or better yet, ask for personal recommendations.
The goal is to find a class where you feel comfortable, accepted and empowered.
2) Try before you buy
I’ll tell you a little story.
When I first started my yoga journey, I signed up for a year-long membership at the first studio I found.
It was a costly mistake.
The classes were too advanced for me, and the instructors didn’t understand how to adapt poses for my body type.
I felt out of place and discouraged.
So, learn from my mistake.
Before committing, take advantage of trial classes or drop-in sessions.
It’s the best way to get a feel for the class dynamics, teaching style, and how comfortable you are in the space.
3) Understand the different styles
There’s a common misconception that all yoga is the same.
This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Yoga comes in many different styles, each with its own pace, focus and level of intensity.
For instance, Hatha yoga is often slow-paced and gentle, making it a great choice for beginners.
On the other hand, Ashtanga and Vinyasa are more dynamic and physically demanding.
Knowing the differences can significantly influence your experience and satisfaction with a class.
4) Pay attention to the instructor
The instructor can make or break your yoga experience.
They set the tone for the class, guide you through the poses, and provide the necessary modifications for different body types.
Look for an instructor who is not only experienced but also empathetic and understanding.
They should be able to create a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels comfortable.
Also, consider reaching out to them before the class.
Share your concerns or any physical limitations you may have.
Their response can give you a good sense of their approach and whether it aligns with your needs.
5) Listen to your body
This is your journey, and no one knows your body better than you do.
Yoga is not about twisting yourself into a pretzel or achieving the perfect pose.
It’s about connecting with your body, understanding its limits, and challenging it in a healthy way.
So, if a pose doesn’t feel right, or if a certain style of yoga isn’t resonating with you, it’s okay to step back, reassess, and make changes.
Never push yourself to the point of discomfort or pain just to fit into a certain class or style.
Your body is your best guide.
Listen to it. Respect it. Nurture it.
6) Embrace the journey
I’ll be honest with you.
When I first started yoga, I was self-conscious.
I felt like everyone was watching me, judging my form, my size, my inability to touch my toes.
But over time, I realized that yoga isn’t a competition.
It’s not about how you look or how flexible you are.
It’s about inner growth, self-acceptance, and finding peace within yourself.
So give yourself permission to be a beginner, to make mistakes, and to grow at your own pace.
Yoga is a journey, not a race.
Embrace every step of it, no matter how slow or challenging it may seem.
7) Consider online classes
Let’s face it, finding the right yoga class can be tough, especially if you’re a plus-sized beginner.
But thanks to technology, we now have more options than ever.
Online yoga classes are a great alternative.
They offer diversity in styles and instructors, and you can do them from the comfort of your home.
Plus, they often allow you to go at your own pace, pause when needed, and repeat sessions as many times as you like.
So don’t limit yourself to local studios only.
Explore online platforms like YouTube or subscription-based services for a wider range of options suited to your needs.
8) Prioritize comfort and acceptance
Above all else, your yoga class should be a space where you feel comfortable, accepted, and free to be yourself.
The right class won’t make you feel self-conscious about your size or ability.
Instead, it will celebrate your strengths, encourage your growth, and respect your boundaries.
When choosing a yoga class, prioritize those that foster a positive, inclusive and body-affirming atmosphere.
Because at the end of the day, yoga is about self-love and self-acceptance.
And you deserve nothing less.
Embracing the journey
Yoga is not just a physical exercise; it’s a holistic experience that intertwines body, mind, and spirit.
In this journey of self-discovery and self-love, your size doesn’t define you, your spirit does.
The essence of yoga goes beyond the physical form and taps into your inner strength.
For those with plus-sized bodies, finding the right yoga class may seem daunting.
But remember, the perfect class is one that embraces you as you are and encourages you to grow at your own pace.
Whether it’s in a local studio or an online platform, whether it’s Hatha or Ashtanga, the key is to find a space where you feel comfortable, accepted, and empowered.
And as B.K.S Iyengar, one of the foremost yoga teachers in the world, once said, “Yoga does not just change the way we see things; it transforms the person who sees.”
