If your business is in physical activity, whether you’re a personal trainer or an aerobics instructor, looking professional and standing out as the teacher can be tricky. The same is true for yoga teachers too. When everyone is in yoga pants, how do you stand out as a knowledgeable professional and not just another member of the class? Here’s how to look the part, even if you’re in sportswear all day. 

Think Practically

If you’re demonstrating a yoga position, the class needs to be able to clearly see what you’re doing with your body, without obstruction. This means you should avoid any clothing that is too loose or too drapey, as this could obscure your class’s ability to see where and how you are positioning your limbs. Loose and comfortable is fine, but be careful not to wear anything that might make it hard to tell what you’re doing.

Consider too the way the clothing will move with you. You’re going to have all eyes on you, so test to see how the clothes might shift as you move through your yoga poses. Does your top gape when you bend forward? Do you need to pull your yoga pants back up every time you lean over? Does the leg of your shorts gape when you sit cross-legged? Test everything you plan to wear to class at home first to be sure how it will work with you.

How do the clothes perform? If you’re teaching a hot yoga class, you need fabrics that are breathable and will wick away sweat. For any class, you want plenty of stretch, so you can move freely and comfortably.

Keep It Simple

Don’t be tempted to choose anything too flashy. Bright colors, bold patterns, and small detail could be distracting, making it harder for your students to focus on your teaching. Remember too that as a yoga instructor, you’re helping your students to feel in touch with their bodies. This means you should be aware of not getting caught up in vanity yourself by choosing a sexy yoga outfit. You’re there to teach, and your outfit should support you in that goal.

If you have long hair, get it out of the way for class. Whether you opt for a simple ponytail or a more elaborate plaited style, not having your hair always falling over your face is less distracting and looks a lot smarter.

Choose Quality Pieces

The price of your yoga clothes doesn’t matter, but you should up for good quality. Look at fabrics and choose pieces that will last and wear well.

Check your yoga clothes often for signs of wear, especially pants and leggings. As the fabric starts to thin, a pair of leggings that seems opaque can soon turn out to be totally see-through when you’re bending over.

Quality fabrics always look more professional than a stretched out, faded t-shirt and too thin leggings. Present yourself in a way that looks put together, clean and simple.

How do you make sure you keep your yoga clothes looking professional while you teach?