Yoga - classes as a "noob"

I think a class would be great! Find an instructor you like and just go at your own pace. Seeing people around you with good form definitely helps and having a good instructor help you with your positioning. It's a great addition to any routine! Enjoy.

So here it is, I'm contemplating starting yoga once my exam's over and done with, partly for the relaxation, partly to build in flexibility with my strength (building).

There are classes already running at my local gym but I'm wondering, seen as I have 2 months til I have the time free enough to go to a class, should I be doing a beginners DVD at home / Wii fit moves?

Can I go straight into a class without feeling like I'm gonna die or do I need to build up to it?
Also, is the wii fit "yoga" any use in easing me in or is it not very realistic?

Clueless & Confused,
C x

I prefer classes with real instructors, you can really hurt yourself if you do the wrong position.
Just let the instructor know that you are new (usually, they ask), and if it is an advanced class, they will show modifications for beginners.

I agree. Best to start with a beginners' class and let the instructor know you're new to yoga. If you start at home, your form may be off and you could end up getting hurt.

THIS! My husband finally got into yoga. One of the first things he said was that the yoga on the Wii was different. Yoga in a class will give you the basics, help you learn the flow, and show you how not to hurt yourself. Start with a beginners class. Even though yoga looks all gentle and low impact, if you do it right, you certainly can feel it the next day.

The other thing that's really important is to keep in mind that it's not a competition. Sure, the girl on the next mat over can sit on the floor, wrap her arms up under and through her legs so that she can hold her foot behind her head. But she's got no balance whatsoever. None. Or the guy in front of you can stand in Tree Pose can do it for 15 minutes, but he doesn't have the flexibility to even hold his hands together behind his back.

So focus on you, on what you can do. You'll find your strengths and find what you need to work on. Don't be discouraged that others can do something you can't. After a few classes, the next new person will see you as the person who knows what they're doing.

any yoga teacher worth his/her salt will make sure you work only as hard as you are able to. Tell them you are new and they should modify things if need be.

I'm so looking forward to getting back to classes tomorrow. enjoy!!

The great thing about yoga is that it is non competitive. Everyone will be at a different level and you work to your own level of ability no matter what that is. If you choose to join the class in the middle that should be ok. If you use a DVD I would suggest someone like Linda Arkin. She does a lot of explaining. Stay away from the harder work outs like Rodney Yee. Linda does Hatha Yoga which is more about stretching and strength. She has a videotape called Yoga With Linda Arkin Natural Body Tune Up. It is only available on VHS and you can still get it at Amazon if you are interested.

I recently started bikram yoga and when I first signed up and paid, they asked if I was new. Then I noticed throughout the class they made a point to say "for beginners..." or help with pointers or even just say "it's ok to take breaks, just try". IMO, a good instructor/class will subtly help you out.