Find a yoga instructor in Winnipeg

Start Practicing Yoga in Winnipeg

Yoga is one of the most dynamic, challenging, and relaxing forms of physical fitness. With roots in Northern India that can be traced back over 5,000 years, yoga has an extensive and rich history that attests to its popularity and cultural relevance. 

Today, yoga has become an everyday fitness staple with studios in nearly every part of Canada. High end brands like Lululemon and Athleta specialize in yoga gear, with larger brands like Nike even selling yoga-inspired clothing. Bookstores have entire sections devoted to texts about the ancient practice, and you will find plenty of apps, virtual classes and Youtube videos that provide instruction. Yoga has become synonymous with wellness, health, and preventative care: it has become a fundamental part of modern urban lifestyles.

Beyond the trends, yoga remains a highly effective means of staying fit, both physically and mentally. Yoga studios build community, and there is nothing quite relaxing as checking into a class early and lying in stillness on your mat while the other students file in. Let’s not forget how incredibly diverse yoga is, with so many variations and fusions to appeal to everyone from those looking to sweat to those looking for deep relaxation.

The Basics of Starting Yoga

Yoga can seem daunting at first. First time yoga class attendees can start what may become a lifelong practice by choosing their first class carefully, arriving with the right equipment, and dressing properly for the class.

Choose the Right Yoga Class

Yoga can seem overwhelming at first - there are so many different styles and instructors it can take a while to figure out where you fit in. The main styles of yoga include: Vinyasa, Hatha, Iyengar, Kundalini, Ashtanga, Yin, and Restorative. Of course, you will find variations and combinations of different styles, not to mention fusions like Yoga-Pilates. So how do you know you are in a class you will love?

Our advice is to visit your local studio and see if they offer a special for first-time students. Having an unlimited yoga class in that first month will enable you to see what types of classes and instructors fit your needs and fitness goals. If strengthening is what you are after, check out an Ashtanga class. Ashtanga is dynamic and will push you to develop strength through a sequence of stretches and body weight exercises. If you are looking to focus on alignment, Iyengar yoga classes encourage students to stay in a single pose using props like bolsters and rope walls. Perhaps relaxation is what you are after: check out Restorative classes where you will use your mat and props to relax and stretch in extended positions. 

Another important element when choosing a class is finding an instructor that you enjoy learning from. Every yoga teacher will bring their own personal style, musical tastes, and approach to classes, and it’s important to learn with instructors you enjoy learning with.

What to Bring to Yoga Class

For most yoga classes, a mat is usually the single thing that students must have. Many studios and gyms offer loaner mats, but you will likely be most comfortable having your own. Should you go out looking for a mat, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to design and texture. In many cases, an inexpensive, thin yoga mat from a store like Wal-Mart or Canadian Tire will do: while you may have to fold it and roll it for certain poses, you will likely be able to use it for beginner classes.

A towel is also great to add extra cushioning when you exercise and to wipe any sweat. A water bottle will also be great to have in case you get thirsty - yoga is a serious workout, and you will want to stay hydrated.

Thicker mats are great if you prefer to have less pressure on your knees and elbows, and are great for other fitness activities like Pilates, stretching, or doing free weight or body weight exercises. Mats that firmly grip the floor are a big plus, and you’ll also want to make sure your mat isn’t too slippery on top when you are doing a downward dog. 

Should you choose to get your own, props, blocks, strap, blanket, and bolster are used most commonly in classes. Of course your studio will likely provide these items but if you are quite serious and practice at home having a full set of props will come in handy. 

What to wear to yoga class

Choosing what to wear to yoga is usually the easiest part: there are so many great yoga outfits you can find. Before getting ready, consider what you will be doing in the yoga class. Dynamic yoga classes with lots of vinyasa sequences (flow) are best done in standard athletic wear: leggings, shorts, tank tops, and a medium-high support sports bra for women often works best. Restorative and yin classes are best done in loose, comfortable clothing - you may even want to wear longer sleeves so you don't get cold holding long poses.

While it’s easy to find fancy, expensive yoga gear at shops like Lululemon and Lole, remember that you don't need much beyond your regular fitness gear to do a class successfully. That being said, if you end up loving yoga, don't hesitate to treat yourself to a new outfit!

Where to Find a Yoga Studios in Winnipeg

With so many yoga videos and apps, you may find yourself wondering why you should bother paying the higher cost of a studio. It’s worth trying a studio out - many studios have created beautiful and calming environments that feel like an oasis from everyday life, and having a live instructor is essential to correcting and perfecting your form. Community studios are also a great place to network and meet other health conscious individuals. Studios may also hold special events, workshops, and other natural health services for clients - so it can definitely be worth it to check one out!

Winnipeg has plenty of great fitness studios and gyms offering yoga classes. Check out Yoga Public’s comprehensive selection of yoga classes, including hot and ‘floating’ varieties, as well as TRX and meditation. Modo Yoga is a popular chain that also offers virtual classes for those who prefer to stay home. Other studios include Peg City Yoga, Yoga North Winnipeg, Serene Yoga, and Prana Yoga. Choose a studio close to home or work and you will be well positioned to make yoga a part of your regular routines.

If boutique studios are out of your budget, many community centres offer yoga classes as part of their programming for a reasonable cost. You may also find Karma or pay-what-you-can yoga classes for a discounted price (usually led by teachers in training), or lower priced classes happening on weekday mornings and afternoons. If you have a gym membership to a big box gym like Goodlife, you may find that they offer weekly yoga classes as part of a membership.

Private Yoga Instruction

Another option available to Winnipeg residents are private yoga classes. In a private yoga class, you can hire a certified instructor to help you improve specific elements of your form and ensure you are breathing and holding your posture correctly. If you are interested in learning more about yoga, a private instructor can help you learn the specific yoga terms for all the various positions and poses. You can inform your instructor what your specific learning goals are, and they will tailor your program as it suits you.

Another great advantage of having a private yoga instructor is that they can come to your backyard or home to lead classes at times that work better for you. If you have a small group or want to practice with your family, a private instructor can make that experience happen. Check out sites like Superprof for private yoga instructors near you!