Yoga Classes Are a Waste—Unless You Follow These 12 Guidelines

Before you leave for class, mirror-test your pants…

All leggings and yoga pants are not created equal, so do a spot check before you hit class. “Just because pants are black does not mean they are opaque,” says Rebecca Weible, founder of Yo Yoga. “Some leggings are meant to be worn under dresses or tunics, but not for working out. You’re bending, squatting and doing all sort of less-than-flattering movements in yoga so be aware of what you’re showing the person on the mat behind you or the teacher.” Women, to be sure, aren’t the only offenders: while shorts and boxers are a common combination for men on the mat, they’re pretty much the male equivalent of wearing see-through pants with no undies. “Yoga is low-impact, without a lot of jumping around, so workout shorts and boxers may feel very freeing and comfortable, but this combination of clothing can be very exposing for those around you or the teacher,” she says. “Compression shorts or boxer briefs are the way to go here to keep your family jewels in the safe.” (Leggings as pants? We settle the debate.)