Online and in-person yoga classes suit different needs, and which one is better depends on you, your goals and your daily routine. If you're new, doing at least a few classes with live guidance can help you see the poses; if you want flexibility, online classes are a practical option. Plenty of people use both.
What are the pros and cons of online yoga classes?
Pros:
- Saves travel and time, since you join from home
- More flexible schedules; some classes can also be watched as recordings
- Access to teachers in other cities
- Practising in your own comfortable space
Cons:
- The teacher may be limited in seeing you and offering adjustments
- Distractions at home (phone, family, chores)
- You need a suitable space, a mat and an internet connection
- The sense of community may not be as strong as in person
What are the pros and cons of in-person yoga classes?
Pros:
- The teacher can see you directly and give spoken guidance or, with your consent, hands-on support
- The studio setting and group energy can help you focus
- Props (blocks, straps, blankets) may be provided
- A chance to meet the teacher and other participants after class
Cons:
- You need to travel and fit the class time
- The style you want may not be offered where you live
- There's usually a fixed schedule and booking routine
When might each one suit you better?
These are general frames; everyone's situation is different.
- If you're new: Starting with a few in-person classes can help you see poses live. Online, it's still important to pick classes labelled for beginners.
- If your time is tight: Online classes can make it easier to fit practice into your day.
- If you want social connection: In-person classes and events can be better for meeting people.
- If you're experienced: Online classes can be a good way to vary your practice.
- If you have an injury or sensitivity: Talk to your doctor and the teacher first; if you need individual attention, consider in-person or private lessons.
What questions should I ask myself?
- What do I need most right now: flexibility, guidance, social connection?
- Do I have a quiet, safe space for practice at home?
- Would I like feedback on whether I'm doing poses correctly?
- What are my budget and weekly time?
- How's my motivation to go out; does practising at home relax me or distract me?
How do I prepare for an online class?
- Lay your mat on a flat, non-slip floor.
- Place the camera so it can see you head to toe (if the teacher allows).
- Silence your phone and set aside uninterrupted time.
- Tell the teacher you're new, or about any sensitivities, before class.
- Join a few minutes early in case of connection trouble.
Can I use both?
Yes; many people do one in-person class a week and practise online at home on other days. That way you get both live guidance and flexibility. Trial classes are a good way to find out what suits you. For choosing a teacher, see our article on how to choose a yoga teacher. For classes near you, use the lessons page.
Frequently asked questions
Is online yoga suitable for beginners?
It can be, but live guidance helps you do poses correctly. If you're new, consider starting with in-person or small live online classes for a while.
Can the teacher see me in online classes?
It depends on the teacher and the platform. It's good to ask before class how the camera is used.
What if I can't find an in-person class?
You can look for nearby events and teachers on the cities page and check online options too.
On YogaEcho you can discover events, instructors and camps in your city, and apply to events you are interested in for free. Fees and registration terms are arranged directly with the organizer.