Decided to give yoga a go and not sure what to bring to yoga class? We’ve got you. Any new experience can be challenging and yoga is not an exception. The truth is, you can practice yoga without any special gear, and even a mat. But having some well thought through essentials will make your experience smoother and possibly more enjoyable.

Here are 4 key things to bring to yoga class:

1. Clothing

Yoga attire should first and foremost be comfortable, allowing for an unrestricted movement. For women, a good sports bra or a built-in bra that keeps everything in place even during inversions is a must. Fitted tops are preferable to a loose fit ones, staying put and not sliding over your head every time you bend over.

Leggings or shorts that stretch in all directions will keep you comfortable during lounges and other open positions, especially if you choose the high waisted option. They also give your instructor better view to check your body alignment and correct execution of asanas. Watch out for loose shorts though – you don’t want your clothing to reveal more than intended.

When choosing the right yoga attire, type of yoga plays a role. Hot yoga, Bikram and Power Yoga will make you sweat so functional clothing is preferable. You might also like to bring a  small sports towel.  Yin Yoga is slower, focused on stretching deep connective tissues through prolonged stay in positions. Here you can also opt for loose clothing.

2. Yoga mat

Yoga mats have several functions. Firstly, a yoga mat defines your personal space an guides you to maintain correct body alignment during asanas. The thickness of the mat also provides cushioning and support for your joints and back. Last but not least, good yoga mats provide an anti-slip surface even when your hands are sweaty.

While some studios provide mats for you to borrow, it is not always the case. Once you get over your initial couple of lessons and decide to stick to yoga, it is recommended to get your own yoga mat. Not only is that your private mat not passed around hundreds of other yogis, but you can also choose a mat that suits your specific needs and style.

There is a variety of yoga mats differing in materials used, thickness, quality and, of course, price. Navigating through all options is not always straightforward. Check out our 6 simple criteria to help you choose the best yoga mat for you.

3. Yoga bag or mat carrying strap

Once you have your own mat, a carrying strap or yoga bag will come in handy. In some cases, a bag or a mat carrying strap is part of the package when buying a new yoga mat. You might want to choose an upgrade though for higher quality and better aesthetics.

Carrying your yoga mat in a bag or a strap frees your hands, protects your mat from getting dirty, and prevents rolled up mats from unwrapping. A well-chosen yoga mat strap or bag can also be a stylish accessory.

4. Reusable water bottle

We all know how important it is to follow drinking regime. Our body and muscles need water to function properly, and going to yoga dehydrated is dangerous.  Having said that, according to the traditional teachings of yoga and Ayurveda, it is not recommended to drink 30 minutes before and after yoga, and of course during yoga class. Yoga stimulates agni, aka inner fire, and drinking extinguishes this fire. This does not mean that if you are really thirsty, you cannot drink at all. Just keep it to the minimum.

You will especially appreciate a water bottle during Bikram, hot, power yoga and vinyasa, where the pace is faster, temperatures are higher and you sweat more. Single-use plastic bottles are a thing of yesterday so bring a re-usable water bottle and fill it up before the class.

Other things

Yoga props

There are many yoga props and accessories available. Props specifically are a great way to help you with otherwise inaccessible asanas, or add an extra challenge to already mastered flow. Yoga props include yoga blocks, blankets, straps, eye pillows, bolsters, meditation pillows, wheels, and many more. Investing into yoga props can be expensive so try what works for you before committing.

Accessories

Relaxation, meditation and ritual accessories are a great way to stimulate extra senses, heighten sensitivity and enrich your yoga practice. Accessories that you might want to add to your self-care and yoga kit are incense, singing bowls, crystals, candles and more. Just like yoga props, accessories are usually not essential for yoga but they provide more holistic experience and other benefits.

Hair band

It may seem like a small thing, but a hair band is a life-saver for those of us with longer hair. Inversions and head stands are some of the positions where long hair in your face can be very distracting. Even with shorter hair, opting for a head band might be a good option, keeping those pesky bangs under control.