What to Wear for Yoga

by Sheila Krehbiel

Overview

Yoga is an ancient Hindu philosophy of meditation and breath control that has been around for 5,000 years. Its current popularity focuses on the benefits of its strengthening, stretching and relaxation aspects. Newcomers to yoga often wonder what clothing is appropriate to wear to class. The answer is simple: Keep it simple.

Wear What Is Comfortable
On Top

When choosing a top to wear to yoga class, remember that movement warms the body. Short-sleeved or sleeveless tops are more comfortable than long-sleeved tops, but long sleeves are fine for slower-moving classes, such as beginner classes. For those who tend to be cold, taking along a light sweatshirt or zippered hoodie can keep them warm until the flow of the class warms their body temperature up sufficiently. T-shirts are easy to move around in, as are more form-fitting exercise tops. Being comfortable in front of others, as well as in the movements of the class, is important to sticking with this form of exercise. No matter the style of top, moisture-wicking fabrics keep the body more comfortable than other materials (such as 100 percent cotton, wool or polyester), especially in more advanced classes that move the participants around a lot, such as power yoga.

On Bottom

Again, wear clothing that allows freedom of movement. In the winter, yoga pants or sweat pants are good choices, although shorts may still be preferable for fast-moving classes; wear sweatpants over shorts to class and remove the pants when necessary. Pants or shorts in moisture-wicking fabrics help keep the body cool.
On the Feet

Most yoga classes discourage participants from wearing anything during yoga practice. Yoga mats---also called sticky mats---provide the needed traction against bare feet. If socks are worn, the feet tend to slide inside the socks. Shoes are never worn in yoga. For those who have cold toes or feet, yoga socks are available for purchase. Some styles have the toes cut off, while others have individual slots for each toe. Most have some sort of traction on the bottom, such as rubberized or sticky material. Most yoga classes warm the body up sufficiently so that circulation flows throughout the entire body, warming up even frosty toes.
What Not to Wear

It is a good idea to leave most jewelry at home or in a locker; dangling or chunky jewelry can get in the way, get broken or hinder movement. Also, do not wear heavy perfumes or oils; they can be distracting to other participants in such close quarters.