Appropriate Dress for Yoga Class
Yoga poses are intended to be relaxing and beneficial to the body, and these effects should not be hindered by clothing that makes the poses difficult. Yoga consists of stretching, breathing, balance, and strength, which are best achieved in a wide range of fitted clothing. Men and women alike will find greater benefits while practicing Yoga in the proper attire.
Natural fabrics, such as cotton, feel great against the skin and do not trap perspiration against the body which can cause discomfort and skin irritation. Cotton allows air to reach the entire body, which also controls temperature regulation. Hemp is another natural fabric that fits the body well without restricting movement and air flow.
Yoga wear does not have to be skin tight, but should not be baggy by any means. The body must be able to move freely, and excess material tends to get in the way of yoga poses. The sleeves of a shirt should not cover the hands, and pant legs should stop before or at the feet. Pants are usually a better choice than shorts, unless the shorts are very tight and stay in place so they don’t ride up or reveal a person’s undergarments.
Leggings, although not for everyone, are one great option to cover the lower body during Yoga. The material stretches with every motion, and covers parts of the body that people may be self conscious of. Leggings can be made of spandex, cotton, a combination of both materials, or other types of fabric. Leggings are usually mid-calf in length, but some types reach the ankles. They can be worn alone, or under other garments.
Most women require athletic tops designed specifically for their gender that may add extra support for their chest, and do not contain added beads, gems, or stitching that can irritate the body during a Yoga session. Women that practice Yoga often find more comfort in a sports bra as opposed to a regular bra because the fabric is smoother and more comfortable to move around in, and the breasts stay closer to the chest. Most sports bras contain spandex, so the material moves with your body but remains where it should.