Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.

Start out with simple standing and sitting poses. Some forms can give you an intense workout. If in doubt, ask the instructor to clarify what will be taught.

As a beginner, it is advisable to choose a gentle, slow form of yoga. Consider one of the following:

Hatha yoga is the most popular branch of yoga from which a lot of other styles originated. Because the practice can vary widely, students should find out exactly what a class offers.

In Iyengar yoga, students hold poses, especially standing postures, typically longer than in other forms.

Svaroopa is a consciousness-oriented yoga that promotes healing. Students often begin this form in comfortable chair poses that help the spine.

Integral focuses on integrating yoga teachings into everyday work and relationships.