Starting Yoga in Beirut: A Beginner's Guide to Styles, Studios & Pricing

Beirut has a small but well-developed yoga ecosystem with studios in Achrafieh, Hamra, Gemmayze and Mar Mikhael, plus options in Jounieh and the suburbs. Most studios welcome beginners and offer trial classes.

Match the style to your goal

• Hatha — slower, holds postures longer, foundational. Ideal first style.
• Vinyasa / Flow — moderate to vigorous, flows from one posture to the next with breath.
• Ashtanga — fixed sequence, traditional, demanding.
• Iyengar — precision and alignment focus, uses props heavily — excellent for injuries.
• Yin / Restorative — passive long holds; very different from active styles, complementary to athletes.
• Hot yoga — heated room; double-check medical fitness if you have BP or cardiac issues.
• Prenatal & postpartum — specialized teacher training required; ask before booking.

What to check before booking

1. Teacher certification (200-hour minimum, Yoga Alliance is the common standard) and continuing training.
2. Class size — under 15 is ideal for hands-on adjustments.
3. Cleanliness, props provided (mats, blocks, straps).
4. Trial class or first-class-free policy — strongly recommended.
5. Schedule flexibility — early-morning and evening slots matching your work day.

Pricing in 2025

Beirut drop-in classes 12–20 fresh USD. Monthly unlimited 80–140 USD. 10-class packs 90–160 USD. Private lessons 35–70 USD per session. Several studios offer 30–50% discounts on the first month.

Health and safety

Tell the teacher before class about pregnancies, recent surgeries, blood pressure issues, herniated discs or shoulder problems. A good teacher will offer modifications instead of insisting on the "full" posture.