Are prerecorded yoga DVDs a sufficient replacement for a live class? Find out in this article by San Diego yoga teacher Tiffany V...
Beginning a yoga practice in-home via DVD definitely has its appeal. But I’m here to let you know it’s not the best way to start! If you can, I highly recommend working with an instructor, whether through an in-person class, or a live, online yoga class. The key here is live. Here’s why…
An Instructor Will Customize Your Practice
An instructor will customize a practice specifically to your level, goals, and needs — so if you’re in a group class, make sure you let him or her know what level you’re at! If you continue with that instructor, he or she can also help you modify your practice as you progress to increase flexibility, strength, and balance. Doing a set series on a DVD repeatedly, to start, may not be the best sequence to get you to where you’d like to be and can cause you to plateau, or miss out on some key poses or stretches necessary for proper growth.
An Instructor Will Help You Focus
Working with an instructor can also help keep you focused and breathing properly for a thorough practice. Yoga DVDs can make it tempting to stop at any point short of a full practice, or neglect the discipline to set aside the time for yourself. Having the commitment of scheduled classes and the guidance of an instructor will help you stay on track and ensure you get the most benefit out of each pose and class for a well-rounded, complete practice.
Tiffany V. teaches meditation, reiki, and yoga in San Diego, CA. She has completed the 200-hour RYT training at CorePower Yoga. Learn more about Tiffany here!
Photo by daverose259
Suzy S.