You’ve signed up for your very first yoga class. You’re ready to start with the stretching and stress relief you’ve heard so much about. However, you may need to figure out what to bring to that first class. You may not know what the expectations are and what may not be acceptable. If you only want to buy items you will use, consider the following gear to bring to your first yoga class.

Yoga Mat

The first thing you will want to bring to your first yoga class is a yoga mat. You can choose any style of yoga mat and any thickness. The idea is that it should be long enough for your entire body. That way, when you do a pose like corpse pose, your whole body is on the mat and not on the floor. You can buy a beginner’s mat for around $20 from most health stores and fitness areas. Keep in mind some studios may have mats to rent. However, the rentals may not be as good as having your own that you are comfortable with and used to.

Water Bottle

A water bottle may be an obvious item to bring to your first yoga class. What you want to consider is the type of bottle you get. In most cases, you will want a spill-proof bottle with a flip-top lid that allows you to keep the water inside the bottle unless you are drinking it. You also want a sweat-proof water bottle to keep the floor from getting wet, which could cause someone to slip and hurt themselves. Consider a water bottle with an outside clip to hold your identification and debit card or keys. This will keep them out of the way during your yoga practice.

Yoga Strap and Block

If you use a yoga block to help you with your bends and stretches, or a yoga strap, you should bring these with you to the class. You will want to keep the blocks and strap out of the way during the class and only use them when necessary. For your first time participating in a yoga class, consider asking your instructor if some are available for the class before you buy them and bring them.

Yoga Mat Bag and Towel Set

Consider bringing a yoga bag and towel set to make things easier. The bag will keep your yoga mat safe after the class. And the towel is to help with the sweat you will have from the class. If you are practicing hot yoga, then you will need the special towels for the hot yoga to help you through the workout.

Remember, you can always add additional items or take something out of your yoga gear bag as needed. The key is to have what you need for your practice and what your class allows. As you move through different yoga styles, you will also find that there may be gear for one type of yoga rather than another. Be flexible with your yoga gear. Know it is about you and your personal practice.