What You Need to Know Before Your First Hot Vinyasa Class in Abu Dhabi

But first, let’s be very clear on what vinyasa yoga really is!

The term Vinyasa is a Sanskrit word that means movement or position (of limbs). Just as the name suggests, this is a form of yoga in which the movements form a flowing sequence in coordination with the breath. In other words, it involves poses that are linked together to create a flow of constant movement, with each movement being done in close coordination with the breath.

Think of it as a mindful yogic dance where you are coordinating your movements with your breath. The major differentiating factor between vinyasa yoga and other forms of yoga is that this form of yoga doesn’t follow any set pattern or rules. It can vary between studios, teachers, and classes.

Now that you have an idea of what vinyasa yoga is, let’s jump into things you need to know before you enter your hot vinyasa yoga class in Abu Dhabi.

1. Not all classes are beginner-friendly:

As we mentioned above, vinyasa yoga doesn’t follow any set pattern. Hence, it is natural to chance upon classes that don’t fit your fitness goals. There are always classes that are better suited for advanced practitioners, and there are classes that suit beginners as well such as those offered by Antara Yoga & Pilates. However, it is always better to contact the fitness studio for a discussion on the classes it has on offer. In general, look for slow-flow classes that move at a gentle pace and allow you to get accustomed to the various poses.

2. Know your instructor:

Since the instructor is the one who will be driving your yoga classes, you need to know whether he/she possesses the requisite credentials or not. It can be helpful to choose an instructor with whom you can relate on some level, as that will make the class a lot more engaging. Studios such as Antara Yoga & Pilates even offer you a chance to try out a hot vinyasa class in Abu Dhabi (and the instructor) before you make a final decision.

3. It will be more intense:

Doing vinyasa yoga will feel much more intense than the yoga you have been doing to date. Since you have to go from one movement to the next pretty quickly, the pace in this yoga is often described as “one breath, one movement”. This phrase itself should give you some idea of how intense it can be. But don’t worry. There will be a natural learning curve where your body adjusts to the new movements and there will come a time when your movements will flow like water!

4. Comfortable, breathable clothing is the one to go with:

No no, we are not asking you to buy a new outfit just for the sake of working out. You will probably have the kind of clothing required for a hot vinyasa class in Abu Dhabi lying inside your closet. Just make sure that it is neither too tight nor too loose in a way that hinders your movements.