FAQs + What to Expect
I’m brand new. How do I get started?
We’re so glad you found us! To make your first visit smooth, you can create an account and sign your waiver online ahead of time here. Arriving 10 to 15 minutes early gives you a chance to settle in, meet your teacher, and get comfortable in our space.
Do I need experience to take a class?
Absolutely not! Many of our classes are designed with beginners in mind. If you’re just starting out, try classes like Restorative, Gentle, Foundations Flow, or Power Flow I. These classes move at a gentle pace and help you build confidence in the basics. Our blog also has beginner class recommendations!
What if I don't want to take a HOT class?
Our WARM or UNHEATED classes might be a great fit. They’re gently heated, so you can enjoy the comfort of warmth without it feeling too intense.
These classes have a WARM or UNHEATED label in the title for convenience.
What should I bring?
A yoga mat
A large towel to cover your mat
A small hand towel
Plenty of water (we do have a fountain!)
Your open mind and spirit
We practice barefoot, so you can leave your shoes at the door and step onto your mat just as you are.
When should I eat before class?
A light snack an hour or two before class usually feels best. Eating a big meal right before practice can make movement less comfortable, so listen to your body and do what feels right for you.
Are there age requirements?
For our heated classes, students need to be at least 16 years old. If you’re under 18 and want to join an adult class, we ask that a parent or guardian comes along with you.
Students under 18 require a parent or guardian to sign a separate waiver, found here.
Parents are asked to email confirmation of receipt to hello@yocoyogacollective.com to ensure it is appropriately linked to their child's record.
Any tips for my first time?
Arrive a little early if you can. Our doors open about 30 minutes before class, giving you time to settle in and get comfortable.
Bring water and remember to hydrate before, during, and after class. Taking care of yourself is always encouraged.
Let your teacher know if you have any injuries, limitations, or medical conditions. We’re here to support you and want to make sure you feel safe and cared for.
Why HEATED Yoga?
The best yoga for you is the yoga you truly enjoy.
Practicing yoga in a heated room can feel like an entirely new experience—challenging, grounding, and deeply connecting. Many students say the warmth shifts their mindset and helps them tune in more fully to their practice.
Here are some reasons people love practicing in the heat:
Your body may feel more open and ready to explore movement.
The warmth creates a unique, meditative environment that feels different from a cooler class.
Heated rooms can balance out Pittsburgh’s chilly winters—or help you adapt to summertime heat.
The presence of heat keeps you anchored in the moment, noticing your heartbeat, your breath, and the sensations of your practice.
For some, the heat feels empowering and energizing. For others, a cooler room feels more supportive. At YOCO, we honor that every body is different and every practice is personal. That’s why we offer both heated and non-heated classes—so you can find what feels right for you.
Please check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, including heated yoga. Your health and safety are important, and only you and your healthcare provider can decide what’s best for you.
The YOCO Blog
Explore our collection of articles, tips, and industry insights.
Asteya
Asteya is another principle found in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras (foundational yoga philosophy text), the eight-fold path to living a meaningful/purposeful life. Asteya is translated as non-stealing. It is probably easy for most of us to take this principle for granted. Just don’t take someone’s stuf... Read More
Jessica Edelson | SAT APR 4, 2026
Camp YOCO: The Spring Field Trip Series!
Move Your Body. Explore Pittsburgh. Find Your People.guest post by Camp Counselor CaitieIf you’ve ever heard me call Pittsburgh the Paris of Appalachia, I mean it with my whole heart. There’s a reason this city continues to grow in recognition—gorgeous views, iconic bridges, rich history, deeply ... Read More
Caitie Marino | TUE MAR 24, 2026
Ahimsa
Yamas (social and ethical restraints) Ahimsa (nonviolence) Satya (truthfulness) Asteya (non-stealing) Brahmacharya (moderation) Aparagriha (non-coveting) Niyama (personal observances) Saucha (cleanliness) Santosha (contentment) Tapas (zeal, austerity) Svadhyaya (self-study) Ishvara Pranidhana (su... Read More
Jessica Edelson | TUE FEB 17, 2026
Pranayama
Guest Post by Lori BattistIn addition to the two breathing techniques from last week, there are SO MANY MORE - standing deep breathing, four purifications, nauli, breath of fire, ujjayi, shiv sadhana are a few. Ask Lori, our breath expert, about them! Alternate nostril breathing (nadi shodhana) -... Read More
Lori Battist | TUE FEB 17, 2026
What is BREATH?
You literally can’t live without it, so it’s good your body does it automatically! In a yoga class, we talk about the breath a lot. It is a way to bring your attention into your body. Focusing on your breath is a way to calm your mind by giving your brain something to do. You can use your breath ... Read More
Jessica Edelson | SAT JAN 31, 2026
Corporate Wellness
Employee wellbeing has become an essential part of today’s workplace conversation. Stress, burnout, and mental fatigue impact not only how people feel at work, but also how they show up — for their teams, their clients, and their organizations. Workplace yoga and mindfulness programs offer a simp... Read More
YOCO Yoga Collective | WED JAN 28, 2026
What is YOGA? Pt. 2
“There’s a wonderful metaphor from the yoga tradition that vividly depicts the plight of the average person and points the way to a more meaningful life. It’s the carriage allegory. Carriage = body Horses = emotions Driver = mind Passenger = soul. The story goes that the state of the average pe... Read More
Jessica Edelson | FRI JAN 23, 2026
$10 Classes at YOCO!
At YOCO Yoga Collective, we believe yoga should be accessible, welcoming, and rooted in community — not locked behind high price points. That’s why we offer $10 yoga classes throughout the week, giving you a chance to move, sweat, breathe, and reset without the pressure of a full-priced drop-in. ... Read More
YOCO Yoga Collective | TUE JAN 20, 2026
Why Yoga?
Why Yoga?Yoga is a mind–body practice that integrates physical movement, intentional breathing, and focused attention. Rather than focusing on one outcome—like flexibility or strength—yoga supports the whole system. Research shows that a regular yoga practice can positively impact both physical f... Read More
YOCO Yoga Collective | SAT JAN 17, 2026
What is YOGA? Pt. 1
Atha yoga anushasanamNow, the teachings of yoga.—Yoga Sutra 1.1 It might first be easier to understand what yoga is not. Yoga is not an exercise routine, or a path to fitness. It isn’t meant to make you more flexible, or stronger. Yoga is not about achieving the fanciest pose or standing on your ... Read More
Jessica Edelson | TUE JAN 6, 2026
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