NEW TO YOGA

Where do I start if I’m new to yoga?
Our classes are open to all levels of yoga students. Try a couple of different styles and instructors to see what suits your needs best, but a good class to start with is Yoga Foundations (Sunnyvale or San Francisco) or Foundations of Flow (Belmont) classes. Please arrive early and let the instructor know that you’re new to yoga. Always be sure to let him/her know if you are working with injuries or special conditions. Listen to the instructions that the teacher explains during each pose to make sure your body is in the right position; often she will describe modifications to the pose for beginners. Most importantly, remember to breathe and to have fun!

What do I bring and/or wear?
Wear comfortable, stretchy workout clothing that allows you to move freely.  You’ll need a yoga mat and a towel.  We rent mats at the front desk for $1 and towels are available in the studio. Please bring a lock if you would like to use our complimentary lockers.

Why should I practice yoga?
A yoga practice will increase your flexibility and tone your muscles.  It promotes cardio and circulatory health, improved balance and better posture.  Yoga also teaches you how to quiet the mind and bring focus to where you want your energy to go….whether it’s a yoga practice, a hard route you want to climb or a difficult day at the office! It's a perfect complement to your climbing and fitness programs. Planet Granite offers all three with one membership!

How long are the classes?
Our yoga classes are generally 75-90 minutes long. Weekday noon classes are 1-1 1/4 hours. If you need to leave early from a noon class, please let your instructor know before class. In addition, if there is a class ahead of you, please wait to enter the room until the instructor has opened the door.

Why are some classes heated?
Warm muscles are more elastic and less susceptible to injury. A heated room makes it easier to warm up and obtain a better range of motion during class.

Breath is essential to Yoga
As breathing is a very important part of yoga, we ask you to please refrain from wearing strong perfumes or products in class. In addition, if you are having trouble breathing (congestion, sniffles, coughs), your body might be telling you to rest and heal. It might be best if you wait until the next class.

Is Yoga Foundations for me?
If it’s your first class or you are fairly new to yoga this is the place to start! In this class, you will learn the basic tools to build a progressive practice over time. If you are an advanced student, this class will allow you to explore the finer subtleties of each pose It's an opportunity to remove some of the old habits that prevent you from moving on into deeper more advanced postures. Each class will build on something different, from sun salutations to cobra pose and even abdominals, breaking down the movement so that each student learns proper form and alignment. Stick with this class and you will slowly build strength and a “foundation” on which to build your practice.

Please check out our faqs section if you have more questions.