I am looking to start taking some Yoga classes. I know nothing about Yoga so I am looking for some general advice on how to start out. I belong to my local Y and they offer Yoga as well as Yogafit classes - is it better to start with basic Yoga first?
The main reason I am doing this is to get more flexible and I also have some back trouble off and on. I have never been very flexible so I am hoping that being flexible will help me with kayaking which I am also getting into. I am male if that matters. Is there anything in Yoga I should avoid as a beginner?
If you have any advice on good books or videos to go along with classes that would be helpful too.
Your best bet is to start out with basic yoga, as you said. First get familiar with the basic terms and techniques. As you learn more, you may get a sense of which particular style is best suited to you. Since you’re after improved flexibility, basic plain classical yoga is what you need. It will build your strength incidentally (lean strength, not bulk-up). You should steer clear of the sweaty “Power Yoga” aerobicized style at first, unless it develops later that you like that sort of thing. Sivananda or Iyengar styles are probably best for your purposes. There are innumerable styles being taught out there, but just check with the teacher if their style is basic classical, or anything like Sivananda or Iyengar (these are the best-known classical styles).
There are innumerable books too. Where to begin? I think The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga by Swami Vishnu-Devananda is really good. Also check out The Sivananda Guide to Yoga.
Ultimately what will work best for you is if you can find a teacher who you can groove well with, that matters more than the specific style. Find a teacher who you’re comfortable with, who is knowledgeable and holds a teaching certificate, who takes care to see that you’re doing well.
P.S. I personally don’t think it makes any difference in your choice of classes if you’re a man or a woman, as the same yoga principles apply equally to both. Videos are no substitute for a live class.
Jomo Mojo pretty much covered everything, but I’ll just add that a good teacher can make a difference. I used to do yoga years (and I really mean decades) ago, and recently tried a few of the classes they offer at my job once a week. The teacher was very helpful and understanding, not pushing me to try to get into a pose that would be uncomfortable for me. I still found it challenging yet very relaxing in the end.
