TL;DR

• Group classes are social, budget-friendly, and offer shared learning with other moms-to-be.

• Private sessions provide personalized guidance, privacy, and flexible scheduling.

• Group classes help build community and boost motivation through regular interaction.

• Private yoga is ideal if you have specific needs, are new to yoga, or prefer one-on-one focus.

• The right choice depends on your comfort level, goals, and how much flexibility or attention you need.

Prenatal yoga is a wonderful way to stay active, relaxed, and connected to your changing body during pregnancy. But when it comes to choosing a class, you might wonder if you should join a group class or book private sessions.

Both options have their benefits, and the right choice depends on your comfort level, schedule, and personal preferences. Group classes offer a sense of community, shared experience, and often a more affordable price point. 

Private sessions, on the other hand, provide one-on-one attention and fully customized guidance, which can be especially helpful for beginners or those with specific concerns. Whether you're looking for a supportive group setting or a more personal, flexible experience especially online understanding the differences can help you make the best decision for your pregnancy journey.

In this blog, we’ll break down both options and guide you on how to find the right prenatal yoga class near you.

Understanding group prenatal yoga classes

Group prenatal yoga classes are specially designed for pregnant women and take place in a group setting either in-person at a yoga studio or online from the comfort of your home. These classes focus on gentle movements, stretching, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques that are safe for all stages of pregnancy.

In a group class, an instructor leads the entire session, offering guidance through pregnancy-friendly poses and breathing techniques. They may also suggest small adjustments based on each trimester or comfort level. While it’s not one-on-one, instructors still try to make sure everyone feels comfortable and supported.

One of the best parts of joining a group class is the sense of community. You get to meet other moms-to-be, share stories, and feel like you’re not alone in your journey. It’s a great space to connect, learn, and even make new friends all while taking care of your body and preparing for birth in a safe and supportive way.

Understanding private prenatal yoga sessions

Private prenatal yoga sessions are one-on-one classes made just for you. They’re great if you want personal attention, have special needs, or simply feel more comfortable practicing alone. These sessions can be done at home or online, and the instructor will guide you through gentle stretches, breathing, and relaxation that fit your stage of pregnancy.

Because it’s just you and the instructor, everything is based on how you feel. If you have back pain, low energy, or need help with certain poses, they’ll adjust the session for you. You can also choose a time that fits your schedule.

Private classes are a good choice if you're new to yoga, have a high-risk pregnancy, or want quiet time to connect with your body and baby. With full attention from your teacher, you can move at your own pace, feel supported, and stay safe and relaxed during pregnancy.

Benefits of group prenatal yoga classes

• Sense of community: You get to meet and connect with other moms-to-be who are going through the same journey.

• Emotional support: Being around others who understand what you’re feeling can make you feel less alone and more supported.

• Motivation to stay active: A group setting can help you stay committed and show up regularly.

• Shared learning: You can learn from others’ experiences, ask questions, and exchange tips about pregnancy and birth.

• Positive energy: Practicing together in a friendly, calm space can lift your mood and help reduce stress.

• Affordable option: Group classes usually cost less than private sessions while still offering expert guidance and safe movements.

Benefits of private prenatal yoga sessions

• Personalized attention: The instructor focuses only on you, adjusting poses and techniques to match your body, stage of pregnancy, and comfort level.

• Go at your own pace: You can take breaks when needed, ask questions anytime, and move at a speed that feels right for you.

• Safe and customized practice: Every session is tailored to your needs whether it’s easing back pain, working on breathing, or building strength for labor.

• More comfort and privacy: If you’re not comfortable in group settings or have specific concerns, private sessions offer a quiet and relaxed space just for you.

• Flexible scheduling: You can pick times that fit your routine, making it easier to stay consistent even on busy or low-energy days.

• Build confidence for birth: With one-on-one guidance, you learn techniques that prepare both your body and mind for childbirth in a focused and supportive way.

Factors to consider when choosing between group and private sessions

Here are some key things to think about when choosing between online group classes and online private sessions for prenatal yoga:

• Comfort with being on camera:  If you're not comfortable being seen by others, private sessions offer a more relaxed, private space.

• Tech support:  In a private session, the instructor can help you if you're having trouble with your mic, video, or internet. In a group class, it's harder to get that personal help.

• Schedule flexibility: Private sessions let you choose the time that works best for you even if it changes each week. Group classes have fixed times, so you’ll need to plan.

• Focus and attention: In private sessions, the teacher is focused only on you. This is great if you need help with certain poses, have discomfort, or just want to go at your own pace.

• Social connection: Group classes can be a nice way to meet other expecting moms online and feel part of a community, even from home.

• Noise and distractions: In group classes, background noise from others can be distracting. Private sessions are quieter and more peaceful.

• Cost: Private sessions cost more, but you're getting one-on-one time. Group classes are more affordable and still led by a professional.

• Motivation: Being part of a group can help you stay on track and show up regularly. Private sessions give you more freedom, but you’ll need to stay motivated on your own. 

These small things can make a big difference in how supported and relaxed you feel during your sessions.

How to find prenatal yoga classes or instructors near you

Finding prenatal yoga classes near you is easy with a little research. Start by searching online for local studios or wellness centers that offer prenatal yoga. You can also check social media, where many instructors post schedules and class updates. 

Websites like Yelp or Google reviews can help you find highly-rated options in your area. If in-person classes aren’t an option, many instructors offer online sessions that can be done from home. Ask for recommendations from other expecting moms or your healthcare provider. No matter what, there’s a prenatal yoga class that’s perfect for you!

Final thoughts 

Both group prenatal yoga classes and private sessions offer great benefits for your pregnancy. Group classes provide support from others and help keep you motivated, while private sessions offer personalized attention and flexibility. Choose what feels best for you based on your schedule and comfort, and enjoy a relaxing, supportive experience during your pregnancy.

Online pregnancy yoga classes make it even easier to stay active and relaxed without leaving home. Whether you're tired, busy, or just want to avoid travel, you can still enjoy safe, guided movement and connect with your changing body. It’s a flexible, accessible way to care for yourself and your baby wherever you are.

Choose what feels best for you based on your schedule and comfort, and enjoy a relaxing, supportive experience during your pregnancy.