Still interested in learning how to give a successful intro class? Read on….

Keeping in mind the goal of turning teens “on” to yoga, I’ve put together some tips to giving a successful introductory class.

As this article is the second entry of a two-part article, the points from Part 1 are summarized:
1. Design the class sequence for them, not you.
2. Provide a pace that matches their attention.
3. Engage them with balancing poses.

Read the full article of Part 1 here.

The continuation of tips to give a successful intro class follows:

4. Teach according to their ability.
An introductory class for teens should be taught according to their ability. Ways to do that include:

Adapt classical poses with easier arm positioning. For instance, if you teach Warriror III (Virabhadrasana III), begin with an easy version such as airplane arms or arms back. Warrior I variation (Viminasana) is a better place to begin, rather than classical Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I). Similarly, Locust pose (Shalabhasana) with the variation of arms out to the sides is much more achievable.

Provide alternatives to classic poses, especially when you see the limitations of students. Bow pose (Dhanurasana) is a great pose for teens but certain teens (as with adults) cannot reach their feet and ankles from behind. Provide an alternative pose like lying on one side and holding one foot from behind.

With this tip, keep in mind that the classical poses or more difficult variations should be offered as a challenge to students, rather than as the normal, expected pose.

5. Include a variety of poses.
To get a perspective on what yoga asana really offers, include a variety of poses from different orientations (standing, balancing, upside down, sitting up, prone, supine). If the introductory class contains only standing poses, for instance, the impression is limited to the demanding work of the legs and the flexibility they require in the hips. The stiffer the student is, the less good they feel doing those types of poses. However, if the class has a couple of standing poses, a few backbends, and a twist followed by plough pose (Halasana) and Savasana, the standing poses are now in the context of a range of body positions. This will communicate a more holistic approach that integrates awareness and coordination throughout the body.

Helpful inversions for teens to work on include:

Half Handstand (Ardha Adho Mukha Vrksasana)

Tripod Headstand (Sirsana II variation) Teens love to call this Inverted Frog Stand.

Teenager in Tripod Headstand (Sirsasana II variation)

See blog about teaching this pose.

Half Shoulderstand

6. Allow time for deep relaxation. True relaxation takes time so it’s important to give an adequate amount of time to experience relaxation. It’s a gift to provide a teenager those moments of complete release in a comfortable position, without judgment or demands. Two classic relaxation poses are shown below.

Supported Child’s Pose (Adho Mukha Virasana) Without the support of a bolster or folded blankets, this pose lacks the depth of relaxation. Consider it restorative only when teens are comfortable and propped up with enough support under their chest.

Final Relaxation Pose, Savasana This is the ultimate relaxation pose, not to be skipped.

Teenager in Savasana

7. Make it fun.
An overly serious tone with teens is off-putting. Lighten up the attitude with smiles, connection, and good-natured coaching.

8. Make it relevant.
Address issues they may be facing such as stress with school or family pressures. Teach them how yoga helps them deal with difficulty in their lives.

It is a huge service to introduce teens to yoga and hopefully this article has encouraged you to consider providing one. These tips are meant to help you make meaningful connections with the teenagers in your introductory class. Please let me know if they work. Send pictures for YogaMinded gallery!