We will talk about how to choose the best online yoga programs for you as a beginner of yoga.
These online yoga programs help develop core strength, increase flexibility, improve posture, boost energy, and increase the mind-body connection. And regardless of your fitness level, there’s a mat waiting for you in one of these online programs.
To get started, all you’ll need is an exercise mat and floor space. That said, some classes incorporate light dumbbells, yoga blocks, exercise bands, and other props. But don’t worry if you’re sans props, as you can still benefit from yoga.
Our top picks for online yoga programs.
Yoga International: Best For Teachers
If you’re looking to work with some of the beginner teachers, Yoga International will help you do that. Priding itself as “the world’s most diverse yoga site,”
Courses include a 15 for 30 Yoga Challenge, Jill Miller Core Integration, Creative Sequencing with Somatics, Rocket Yoga 101, Ayurveda and Yoga for Menopause, and more. While some classes are for members only, others are available for one-off purchases. Additionally, there are multi-day training sessions offered such as Essentials of Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga with Sue Elkins.
Beginner Yoga Quickie
If you’re new to yoga and are unsure about committing to a regular practice, check out this free Beginner Yoga Quickie with Jackie Casal Mahrou from Yoga Download.
In a little under 30 minutes, you will learn foundational postures such as Downward Facing Dog, Triangle Pose, Forward Fold, and more. Recommended for first-timers or students still new to yoga, this class also spends a lot of time focusing on the breath and how to use it during yoga poses. Mahrou is very encouraging and reminds students that it’s OK to ease into the practice. Plus, Yoga Download has an extensive library of videos and online yoga programs for newbies that focus on the different styles of yoga and tutorials that help teach you the basics.
Gaia Yoga
Gaia’s lineup of yoga videos. Yee’s class, On The Go Full Spectrum Flow, is a 30-minute Hatha sequence geared toward intermediate and advanced levels.
The video is challenging and fast-paced, so there’s minimal time spent on explaining the poses. That said, Yee’s instructions are clear and concise, but there’s an expectation that students will be able to flow through the poses with ease. If you’re still learning many of the foundational poses, consider watching this video before you try it. Yee does an excellent job of demonstrating Hatha yoga. In addition to this course, Gaia offers access to mindfulness content like meditation and pilates.
How To Choose
Our picks are mostly subscription-based online yoga programs with one, free YouTube channel offering. Some of the paid programs we reviewed offer a free trial period during which you can “try before you buy,” with Daily Burn coming in first with a 30-day trial. Since there are so many ways to practice yoga, we wanted to include sites like Gaia that offer multiple styles.
For people new to yoga, following a daily structured program can sometimes make committing to a practice a whole lot easier.
What Are The Best?
Online yoga programs are a mix of movement, meditation, and breathwork. A good course will include all three of those components through a series of poses, and it will challenge you both physically and spiritually. Classes can range in length from 10 minutes to over two hours, with a variety of styles offered. Most courses will require a yoga mat, but many also encourage the use of props such as a yoga block, straps, or blankets to help modify movements or teach a restorative style of yoga.
Who Should Take Online Yoga Programs?
Yoga is a low-impact activity that is appropriate for most people. However, if you’re new to this exercise style or you’ve never taken a class, it’s a good idea to start with a beginner flow sequence regardless of your fitness level. This will allow you to learn the basic principles and cues the instructor will use at higher levels. A skilled instructor will be able to offer modifications and alternatives to certain poses. They will also teach you how to incorporate props such as a yoga block, bolster, straps, or blankets to make the practice safer.
How Much Do Online Yoga Programs Typically Cost?
In general, online yoga programs are either free or part of a paid subscription service that can cost between roughly $10 and $30 per month. Live studio classes will run you about $25 to $35 per class, depending on the location, brand, and instructor’s experience. Purchasing a multiple course pack can bring the cost down significantly, but make sure you like the class before you invest hundreds of dollars. That said, most health clubs and gyms offer yoga classes in their lineup. You can also check with the local community or senior center for free yoga lessons.
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