Do you pick your row by how you are feeling that day? I sometimes do. Typically I set up my mat in the second row. I can usually see myself well, and the energy feels good, as I am surrounded by yogis on all sides. I am centered in my practice in the second row. Sometimes, if I feel like I need to take it easy in class, I will head to the third row. I feel like there is less of an expectation for my practice in the third row, so maybe I give myself a little bit of a break.
More recently, I have been trying out the front row. The front row is nice! You have an unobstructed view of yourself, there is great energy from your fellow first row yogis, and that little bit of extra scrutiny pushes your practice forward. In the front row, I feel like I need to set a good example for the yogis behind me, particularly if there are new students in class, so I keep my wiping and fidgeting to a minimum, and I push myself to take each posture to my fullest expression.
I particularly like the view I have of myself in the first row. It helps me keep my knee more firmly locked in standing head to knee and gives me somewhere to look so my head doesn’t droop in balancing stick. It is also a nice treat to meet my own eyes in the mirror during toe stand in such an intimate way. Plus, the splashing of my sweat on the front mirror always gives me a much needed chuckle as I raise my arm in the set-up for standing bow.
I am glad I am experimenting with the rows. Each brings a new dimension to my practice and keeps me engaged and energized to see what comes next.
Experimenting with the rows has also helped me to see how the small choices we make each day can have a big impact on the type of experiences we have. Hiding in the back in life rarely leads to a peak experience, but sometimes it is necessary. The middle path can lead to a satisfying, yet fairly typical day. But taking the risk to be out in front can pay off handsomely, leading to a more energized experience and deeper connections with yourself and others. I like having a first row kind of day. Maybe I should try to do that more often.
Yogis, do you have a favorite row for your practice?
Hot Off The Mat ™ 
I do not feel worthy enough for the front row since there are so many things I am still working on in my practice and sometimes I still have to take a pause to sit. I feel like the front row is for more advanced yogis than I. I usually position myself in the third row, close to the podium, in the center of the room
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Don’t say that! – it is not about being worthy. Plus, I think as long as you are trying the right way you ARE worthy. But, I hear you. It may also depend on the studio norms, but it is fun to shake it up once in a while. In my studio I have seen people in the front row sit down at times and it was not a big deal. Maybe one day when you are feeling strong you could try the second row. : )
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I try to pick a different row and position ever time.
After my first 20 or 30 classes, I was asked to move out of the third row to make room for beginners which was a shock, but also exciting – “Really? You’re going to let others copy me?” Then finally, I was forced into the front row (by arriving late for a busy class) and I hated that “There’s no room to do all the postures”, until I realised I could step forward on back on my towel (seems so obvious in hindsight). Then I got to like front and centre and did over 100 classes in the same spot. However, this meant I could always tell if my back bends were better or worse than my best and my ego didn’t like that when I wasn’t improving.
So I now try to vary where I am every class: left a bit, right a bit; front row, 2nd row and even 3rd if thre aren’t too many beginners. Even up against the side walls if i’m late and now I don’t care (it only actually affects one pose.) This takes away my mental markers on the ceiling or back wall and so I’m just in the moment, doing the best I can on that day in every class.
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Mixing it up sounds like a good idea! Thanks for the comment!
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I always take the front row. Clear view of the mirror and it tends to be the warmest spot in the room. I don’t worry about setting an example. The front row helps me stay focussed
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Thanks so much for your comment! It is great to hear how others approach the hot room!
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