by Kimberley Heit

Created on: January 22, 2009   Last Updated: February 03, 2009

When it comes to practicing yoga, the best yoga outfit is one which affords you optimal functionality. Clothing can dictate your ability to move and your comfort level. Yoga clothing needs to be loose enough to accommodate movement and allow for the free flow of circulation. If your clothing is restrictive or digging in, you will be unable to get the full benefit from your practice because your concentration will be affected.

Often people assume loose, comfortable clothing is therefore the best way to go. However, clothing that is too baggy can cause other complications. For example, you could trip on pants with a wide, loose leg or an oversized t-shirt or shorts could reveal far more then you intended to when you stretch your legs in various poses or lower your head past your hips.

The best yoga clothing is form fitting, but contains stretch to allow freedom of movement and circulation. Clothing with a high percentage of natural fibers is great because it allows the skin to breathe. For example, a pair of pants made from 97% cotton and 3% spandex works well. Bamboo is another great fabric because it is anti bacterial and extremely breathable.

Form fitting clothing also allows you to see your movements much more clearly in a mirror. The same applies if you are attending a yoga class, if your clothing is very baggy the instructor will be unable to see your form and provide tips.

Some suggestions on what to wear to include:

-Form fitting t-shirts or tank tops

-Bare feet-bare feet allow you to grip the mat. If you are going to a class and want something easy to slip on and off there are yoga sandals or simply wear a pair of flip flops.

-Lightweight layers-easy to remove layers are a sensible choice because many yoga poses create heat and will make you sweat. So if you are cold wear zip up track jumpers, ballet wrap tops or button front cardigans which can all be removed with ease during your practice.

-Form fitting pants-leggings, boot cut yoga pants, cropped leggings or yoga pants, straight leg sweatpants

-A supportive high cut sports bra-if you intend on wearing it along check that it stays against your chest when you bend over.

-Unitards-although considered daggy in some circles, the unitard is perfect for practicing yoga in because you don't have to worry about things like tugging your top down.

-It is best to wear natural fiber underwear and under form fitting yoga bottoms you will need to wear a thong or seamless laser cut brief if you don't want to create a visible panty line.

You also need to remember to take off any dangly jewelry and tie long hair back before beginning a yoga practice.

If you are purchasing new clothing why not try a few yoga poses to check that it works for you. If you want to fit with the yoga lifestyle, look for eco friendly fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo or modal. In addition look for garments which have been made under fair trade conditions. Remember, it is not necessary to purchase brand name yoga apparel; yoga is not about impressing others!

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