Tight or loose? What clothes are suitable for different types of yoga

Sportmaster PRO expert

A barefoot man in trousers, frozen in one asana and immersed in the mysterious process of energy exchange with the universe – this is the image that most often comes to mind when you want to imagine a yogi. And although there are no strict criteria for choosing the outfit, the style of clothing can vary depending on the direction of practice.

There is one common condition – your comfort. Agree, it is difficult to concentrate on the harmonization of body and spirit, if the elastic band on the belt overstretches the stomach, and the T-shirt digs into the armpits. Today there are many directions of yoga: raja, hatha, bhakti, vinyasa, ayengara and others. And, despite the similar concept, they all differ from each other with different degrees and directions of activity. Therefore, it is also worth choosing clothes based on specific tasks.

Dynamic types

If your choice is ashtanga, vinyasa, aerial or acroyoga, where different patterns of movements successively change each other, there are asana changes, inverted poses, then elastic tight clothes will suit you. It, unlike variants with a loose cut, will not slip, twist and interfere with the performance of exercises. In addition, a tight fit makes it easier for your instructor to track errors in body position and correct them on the spot.

If you are practicing aerial yoga, also make sure that your skin is covered with clothing where it comes into contact with the hammock. This will protect it from burns and chafing.

Bikram, or “hot” yoga

These practices take place in conditions of high humidity, with air temperatures up to 40 ° C in the halls. For them it is worth choosing the lightest and most breathable fabrics made of natural fibers or quick-drying synthetics with a heat-regulating function. Shorts, tops and tank tops made of loose material are perfect.

Calm practices

In many types of yoga there is no dynamics (Iyengar yoga, yoga nidra, kundalini, hatha yoga), and most of the class should be spent in static poses. For such practices you can choose both synthetic clothes with support, and soft cotton T-shirts/tunics and light, not constricting movements afghani pants. But you need to take into account that their cut implies a lowered step seam. This may not be too comfortable in asanas with wide leg placement.

When concentrated work with energies it is important to feel free from the pressure of the fabric of the body, so choose a form of comfortable materials that are pleasant to the touch and breathe well.

Pay attention to the composition. For dynamic practices are more suitable quality synthetic materials that provide thermoregulation, moisture, stretch well, adjusting to different positions of the body. For quiet practices you can choose natural materials: cotton, linen, silk.

Footwear

Many yogis practice barefoot, and this is also a question of safety. The naked foot provides better grip than ordinary socks. It is more stable and better communicates the temperature and texture of the surface. It helps to engage the nervous system.

However, there are also special shoes for practitioners – for example, soft slippers made of natural materials with anti-slip soles. You can also find socks with a silicone applicator. They provide freedom of movement, air exchange, comfortably fit the foot, help stabilize the body in balance exercises. If you’re working out in a club, it’s also a matter of hygiene.

The choice of clothes does not depend so much on whether you are practicing at home or in a club. It is more important to take into account the peculiarities of the direction, intensity and conditions of training.

Nevertheless, specialized halls tend to have a more relaxed atmosphere. The room has control over the temperature/humidity of the air, light, music, availability of necessary equipment. If you are in doubt about the correctness of your decision regarding equipment, it is better to start training in a club, together with a trainer, to consult with a professional.