How to Choose an Online Yoga Class

There is no shortage of online yoga. That is both the good news and the problem: with so many options, how do you find a class that actually suits you?

These questions will help you narrow it down.

1. Live or recorded?

Live classes happen at a set time, with a teacher guiding the group in real time. You can usually ask questions, and if your camera is on, the teacher may offer suggestions. The fixed time can also help you stay consistent.

Recorded classes can be done whenever you like and paused or repeated. However, nobody can see you or answer your questions in the moment.

If you are new to yoga, live teaching is particularly valuable. The US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that learning yoga on your own without supervision has been associated with increased risks. Many people start with live classes and add recorded sessions once they are familiar with the basics.

2. Group or private?

Group classes are sociable, usually more affordable, and follow a set plan suitable for the level of the class.

Private sessions are planned around you: your goals, experience, available space and any modifications you need. They can be a good way to build confidence before joining a group, or to work on something specific. See our private yoga sessions for an example of how they work.

3. What level is it really?

Class descriptions don't always match reality. Look for:

• a clear level (beginner, all levels, intermediate),
• a description of what happens in the class,
• mention of options and modifications, and
• whether the class includes demanding poses such as inversions.

If you are a beginner, choose a class labelled for beginners, even if you are fit from other activities. Yoga has its own techniques, and learning them properly from the start is worthwhile. Our beginner yoga classes explain each pose step by step.

4. What is the style and pace?

Yoga classes vary hugely. A few broad types:

• Slow and gentle: supported poses, longer rests, minimal transitions. See gentle yoga.
• Flowing: linking poses with the breath, sometimes quite energetic.
• Stretch-focused: longer holds to work on mobility, such as yoga for flexibility.
• Relaxation-focused: breathing, slow movement and guided rest, such as yoga for relaxation.
• Chair-based: practised seated or with a chair for support. See chair yoga.

Think about what you want to feel like at the end of the class: energised, calmer, looser? Choose accordingly.

5. Does the timing fit your life?

The best class is one you can attend regularly. A 30-minute class you can actually get to before work may serve you better than an hour-long class that clashes with dinner. Check the schedule and think honestly about which slots you could keep up.

If you are joining from a different time zone to the teacher, double-check the start time in your local time.

6. Who is teaching?

It is reasonable to ask about a teacher's training and experience, and health organisations recommend doing so. A good teacher will happily tell you about their background. You can also look for:

• clear, calm instructions that are easy to follow,
• regular reminders that you can rest or modify,
• encouragement to work within your limits rather than push through pain, and
• honesty about what yoga can and cannot do. Be cautious of anyone promising to cure a health condition.

7. What are the practicalities?

Before booking, check:

• The platform and whether you need to download anything.
• Camera expectations. Is it optional?
• Recording. Are classes recorded, and if so, who can see them?
• Booking and cancellation terms, including what happens if you miss a class.
• Price and what is included.

Our FAQ and cancellation policy answer these questions for our own classes.

8. Try, then decide

Your first class is a chance to see how it feels. Did you understand the instructions? Could you keep up, or did you feel rushed? Did you feel safe and welcome? If not, try a different level or style. It often takes a couple of attempts to find the right fit.

Your quick checklist

• Right level for you
• Style and pace match what you want
• Time you can attend regularly
• Teacher explains clearly and offers options
• Clear booking, cancellation and privacy terms

Explore our classes

Browse all our yoga classes to compare styles, or book a class when you're ready. If you're unsure which to choose, get in touch and we'll help you decide.