Sometimes when we start a new goal in life, we have a certain feeling of panic and uncertainty of the unexplored and in most cases it's completely unfounded and we move on with things very fast and easily.  Sometimes a simple  thing can cause us to have a negative first impression and perhaps even never wanting to try that exercise or recreation again.  Yoga has  many health advantages, on both a physical and spiritual level, that it would be a tragedy for anyone to miss out on them because they made an avoidable mistake on their first day.  3 problem areas you should avoid.

Error One:  Not knowing what you can gain or master from Yoga.

  There are many different methods and models of Yoga and each has it's different attractions.  Question yourself what it was about Yoga in general that attracted you and then you can inquire into a style that caters more precisely to that.  Perhaps You like to set goals, whether, physical, mental or spiritual.  If you do then it's a good idea to discuss them with the instructor of your class before you begin.  Yoga instructors are usually very approachable and enthusiastic about their passion.  They will be able to talk to you about your purpose for the class and let you know if you are being pragmatic, aiming too high or too low.  Make sure your goal includes a timeframe so it becomes something that is measurable.

Error Two:  Jumping in Feet First.

  Once decided,some people will give this Yoga thing a try taking a running leap and jump in to a 12 month stage by stage class.  These classes are usually an upfront payment system and progress from one class to the next as time goes by.  They are a fantastic way of studying Yoga and becoming excellent at it, but, it's quite possible you will choose a class that is not perfect for you.
 
  The best way choice is to join a Yoga beginner class, also known as a drop in class.  These classes are formed to give you a very liberal feel for the different varieties of Yoga.  The level of the students in the class usually varies greatly so you can expect the teacher to keep the classes quite subdued.  Another key benefit  is that the classes are pay as you go so there is no big financial expenditure for you while you decide the type and style of yoga that best suits you.  You are also not obliged to attend every class.  With the longer courses you can fall behind quickly if you miss a week or two in a row.  With the pay as you go classes you will find that while each class is different, the level stays quite low to cater for the newer people joining in.

Error Three:  Selecting the wrong Instructor.

  Traditionally a Yogi had to be an apprentice to a skilled Guru for many years before he could teach even the simplest of Yoga procedure.  Today a 3-day course over a long weekend is considered enough by some people.  There is a big difference in what you will achieve depending on the skills and abilities of the person teaching you.  Yoga is starting to make a regular appearance on the sports injury list and a large reason for this is instructors who have been taught just enough to be dangerous.  A qualified teacher won't necessarily be fantastic and an unqualified teacher won't necessarily be terrible - but the odds are certainly cast in that direction, so it's a good idea to check your instructors education and skills before you begin training with them.

 Read my more articles on Yoga Rookies