Quote Originally Posted by Kalidurga View Post
There are so many varieties of Yoga and many of them can be modified to the practitioner's physical requirements and goals. For many people, taking a class from an experienced instructor is definitely the way to go. But for others, a researched home practice can be just as effective. For anyone who's considering starting out on their own, do some homework first.

Personally, I'm not comfortable going to a gym or Yoga studio. But over the last several years, I've developed several asana series on my own using Yoga Journal magazine and an assortment of books, and I choose the series I do depending on how I feel that day both physically and mentally. I'm far from being an advanced practitioner. For instance, I wouldn't attempt Headstand without an instructor because I have neck and shoulder issues, and I may seek out a teacher one day to learn how to do it safely. But I've definitely come a long way on my own.

I say this not to refute any of the advice above because it's very good advice, but to reassure anyone who thinks they'd prefer to start off on their own. Again, do some research. Learn about the various types of Yoga and the possible modifications that you can use. And ease into the practice, starting simply and paying close attention to how your body responds. You may end up heading straight for the nearest class, or you may develop a wonderful, personal, home practice.
Great advice. Whether you choose to do it at studio, gym or at home, it pays to be discerning. Some DVDs are better than others. Read reviews and take it slow. If you go to a gym or studio, ask about the instructor's training level. Experiment with styles and teachers.

I was lucky in that my first instructor has 14 years of experience under her belt. In some cities, that wouldn't be terribly unusual, but in Indianapolis, it's not as common. As much as I like my studio, they employ some newbie instructors who are simply not as good. Even among well trained instructors, there are some I like, and some I don't. Unfortunately, my favorite instructor is on an indefinite sabbatical and isn't teaching any more. Even though it's been over a year since she made that decision, I'm still heartbroken about it. No one else I've gone to compares, and my practice has gotten really off track.

I, personally, like the studio/gym environment, but I find my house to be do distracting for yoga. The cats like to join in. If it works for you, and you're able to develop a mindful practice, then great. I sometimes balk at the expense of my studio, not because I don't think the price is worth it, but because it seems like an extravagance. My studio operates on a slim profit margin, and the instuctors aren't getting rich from it.