Do you ever feel like the hardest part of doing something new is taking the first step?
I certainly felt that way the first time I stepped into a yoga class. But, I was amazed to see people of all abilities, shapes and sizes enjoying themselves.
“Starting yoga can feel intimidating, especially if you think you need to be flexible, calm, or experienced before you begin,” says yoga teacher Anabella Landa. “The truth is that yoga meets you exactly where you are.”
If you’re not ready to step into a class, there are many at-home options you can try, including Landa’s 7-Day Beginner Yoga series on the ALO Wellness Club app. It features short, accessible flows that focus on foundational elements—ideal if you’re new.
Landa says it’s important to learn basic postures—such as hip openers, twists, balances and transitions—so you can build your confidence.
Here, Landa shares her five top tips for anyone who wants to start yoga but is nervous about starting, or indeed getting into their first child’s pose.
1. Let go of the idea that you need to be good at yoga
Landa explains that natural flexibility is not a prerequisite for starting yoga. It’s something even yoga teachers lack and is developed through consistent practice.
Similarly, she explains that a calm and peaceful attitude isn’t something you need to bring onto the mat. “It’s something you cultivate,” she says. “Spirituality isn’t a look. It’s not incense or aesthetic poses or knowing Sanskrit.
“Yoga is about building awareness and strength in your current body, not forcing it to look a certain way. If you’ve been waiting to feel ready, this is your reminder: you don’t need to be more of anything. You just need to begin.”
2. Start slower than you think you need to
“Many beginners jump into fast-paced flows and feel discouraged,” says Landa.
“Starting with foundational, slower-paced classes helps you understand body alignment and breath. That base makes everything else feel more accessible later.”
3. Feel the difference between discomfort and pain
“It’s normal to feel muscles working in new ways,” says Landa.
However, she encourages beginners to learn how to distinguish between sensation and strain. “Sharp, pinching pain or joint pain is not normal.”
Landa explains that this discernment is also a skill built over time and that you must first learn to tune into your body and listen—another fundamental element of yoga practice.
4. Focus on your breath, not the room
I’m sure we could all do with getting out of our heads a little, and Landa tells Fit&Well that experiencing your own practice in your own body—not worrying about anyone else—is the best way to experience yoga. This also takes time and practice.
“Comparison is common in studio settings or even online classes,” says Landa.
“If you shift your focus to your breathing, you’ll stay grounded in your own experience.”
“The breath is what makes yoga yoga, not how advanced the pose looks.”
5. Be consistent, not extreme
It’s easy to go all-in on your new hobby and nothing else, but this isn’t conducive to a healthy yoga practice. No matter how much you enjoy it, it doesn’t need to take over your entire life.
“You don’t need hour-long sessions every day,” says Landa. “Even 10 to 20 minutes a few times a week can build strength, balance and confidence.”
“Shorter sessions remove the pressure of carving out a full hour, and help you maintain momentum while still seeing real results,” she adds.
“Small, steady effort creates sustainable progress. On the ALO Wellness Club app, my Glow & Go series features classes that are 30 minutes or less, making it easier to stay consistent even on busy days.”
