For beginners, we typically recommend the following drop-in classes:

• Yoga Fundamentals – a class designed for students who want to learn the basics of yoga, and improve alignment, strength and flexibility.
• Level 1 Flow – these classes are for beginners and up. Flow classes generally move at a slightly quicker pace. Throughout the class, the teacher will give options for the both beginners and more advanced students
• Yin Yoga – these classes are slower paced, with longer holds in the poses. Typically these classes have less standing poses, and focus on poses done on the floor. The long holds are a great way to settle the mind, and get deeper into the body.
• Restore and Repair – a slow, mellow class with an emphasis on nurturing and restoring your body. Great for beginners and people recovering from injuries

Intro to yoga is a registered program that we offer throughout the year. It is typically an 8 week course, with class once a week. The material is presented in a very sequential manner.

Most people new to yoga start with our drop-in classes. However, if you’re the person that also likes a lot of structured learning with a consistent group of people, then Intro to Yoga is a great option!

If you are a permanent resident of the Bow Valley, we recommend our $39 Intro Month Locals Special. It’s an exceptional value, as it allows you unlimited access to all of our drop-in classes for an entire month. This way, you can take different classes, experience lots of teachers, and build up some good habits with consistent practice.

Our Intro to Yoga is also an excellent way to get started.

If you’re new to yoga and visiting Canmore, typically buying a drop-in class, or a 1 week pass is a good way to get started.

Contrary to what a lot of people say, you don’t need a fancy yoga outfit to practice yoga! Just wear comfortable work-out clothes that allow you to move freely.

Yes we have mats for rent. They are $1.

If you are tech-savvy, yes you can create an account on-line and pay for a drop-in class. However, it’s not necessary – most of our beginners do this stuff in person at their first class.

Our instructors open up to studio 15 minutes prior to schedule class time. As a beginner, we recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early so that you can fill out the waiver form, purchase your pass, and get acquainted with the studio. It’s always nice to have a bit of time relaxing on your mat before class starts.

An open mind and a smile 🙂 If you think you may get thirsty, we recommend bring a water bottle that you can fill up in the bathroom.

When you arrive at the Yoga Lounge – introduce yourself to the instructor who will be at the front desk and let them know that you’re new! They can guide you with the waiver form, purchases, and answer any additional questions you may have. If you have any injuries, or special concerns – by all means let them know.

Once you’re signed up, you can change and leave your belongings in our change rooms. This is the most secure spot, and keeps the room free from distractions and clutter. From there, feel free to set up a mat any where in the main studio space, and have it facing towards the front windows.

We encourage our students to always let their teacher know if there is something going on in their body, or if they have any special concerns.

Often, the teacher will be able to suggest modifications that will be helpful, as well as tailor class content for your needs.

You definitely do not need to be a “flexible” person to come and enjoy yoga. In fact, some of our most advanced and committed students are relatively tight in their bodies. Yoga is a process, and we all start with where we’re at. Additionally, much of this practice is a mental one, where we work with calming the mind and focusing on our breath.

How often you practice is really up to you. If you’re looking to experience continual improvements in your physical and mental well-being, we recommend coming three times a week or more.

At the Lounge we have people who come once a week, and we have folks that come 7+ times a week! Know that it’s not a competition – everyone has their own unique life circumstances and how much you practice has to work for you.

Like any good habit, a regular yoga practice lays down the groundwork for steady progress.

If you practice once a week, you will experience more mindfulness and feel better physically. Strength and flexibility can be maintained and gradually improved with a once a week practice.

If you practice twice a week, there will be enhanced improvements in your physical body, and you will start to notice increased mindfulness on and off the mat.

If you practice 3+ times a week, you will definitely see consistent growth and improvement. This volume of practice over a long time frame improves strength, flexibility and stamina. As your mindfulness is cultivated, you’ll start to notice changes in other aspects of your life as well. For example, less stress, an enhanced ability to cope with challenges, etc.

Congratulations! You are on a path of change – the kind of change that comes when a person dedicates themselves to continually practicing a skill.

Our Monthly Auto-Renew program is an exceptional value for people who are practicing 6+ times a month and is designed to support committed practitioners. Not only do Monthly Auto-Renew members enjoy discounts on workshops, there is a sense of community that grows from regular interaction with teachers and fellow students.

For more info on our Auto-Renew program, please click on: AUTO RENEW INFO