10 Common Excuses People Make About Online Yoga for Pain Relief (and Why They’re Holding You Back)

As a yoga teacher who specializes in pain management, I’ve heard them all. The truth is, these excuses often come from misconceptions about what yoga really is and how accessible it can be—especially online.

Let’s break down the most common reasons people avoid trying online yoga for pain relief—and why those excuses don’t hold up.

1. “I don’t have time.”

Many people think yoga requires an hour every day to make a difference. In reality, even 10–15 minutes of gentle, consistent practice can ease stiffness and improve mobility. Research shows that short, regular bouts of stretching and mindful movement can improve circulation, reduce muscle tightness, and boost joint health. Online yoga makes it even easier—you can press play whenever it fits into your schedule.

2. “I’m not flexible enough.”

This is like saying you’re too dirty to take a shower. Flexibility is not a requirement; it’s a result of practice. Online yoga is full of modifications, props, and beginner-friendly classes designed specifically for people who feel tight and stiff. Over time, gentle stretching actually lengthens muscles, improves range of motion, and reduces pain from tension.

3. “It won’t really help my kind of pain.”

Whether your pain comes from sitting too much, aging joints, or an old injury, yoga is adaptable. Numerous studies (including ones from Harvard Medical School and the Journal of Rheumatology) show yoga helps reduce chronic pain, especially in the back, hips, knees, and shoulders. Online options allow you to choose classes designed specifically for your needs, so you’re not stuck doing a one-size-fits-all workout.

4. “I need a live teacher to correct me.”

It’s normal to worry about “doing it wrong.” But online yoga teachers (myself included!) provide step-by-step guidance, modifications, and demonstrations so you can move safely. You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to move with awareness. Plus, many online programs offer live classes over Zoom, where you can still get real-time feedback if you want it.

5. “I don’t know where to start.”

The internet can feel overwhelming. But the beauty of online yoga is that you don’t have to search blindly—many teachers organize classes into beginner-friendly pain relief series. That way, you don’t waste time scrolling; you can start exactly where you are, with confidence.

6. “I can’t afford it.”

Here’s the truth: you don’t need an expensive membership or fancy equipment. There are plenty of free classes available online, and a supportive membership or course often costs less than a single physical therapy session. Plus, yoga can save you money in the long run by reducing doctor visits, medications, and treatments for chronic pain.

7. “I’ve tried yoga before and it didn’t work for me.”

Not all yoga is the same. If you’ve only tried a fast-paced flow or a generic class, it may not have addressed your pain. Pain-management yoga focuses on gentle stretching, mobility, and strengthening—all tailored for people who want relief, not acrobatics. The key is finding the right style and teacher for your needs.

8. “I don’t have the space or equipment.”

You don’t need a yoga studio setup to benefit from online yoga. A chair, a wall, and a little floor space are often all you need. Common household items like pillows, blankets, or even a towel can act as props. The accessibility of yoga is one of its greatest strengths.

9. “I’m too old / too injured / too out of shape.”

This one breaks my heart because yoga was designed to help people with these exact struggles. There are safe, gentle practices for seniors, for those recovering from injuries, and for people who have avoided exercise for years. In fact, yoga helps build strength, balance, and joint stability—all crucial as we age or heal.

10. “I’ll start when I feel better.”

Waiting until the pain disappears is like waiting for your house to stop leaking before fixing the roof. Yoga is not just for when you feel good—it’s a tool that helps you feel better. The sooner you begin, the sooner your body can start repairing and releasing tension.

Final Thoughts

Excuses often feel protective—they’re our mind’s way of keeping us in the familiar. But if pain and stiffness are already part of your daily life, staying the same isn’t really protecting you.

Online yoga gives you a safe, flexible, and affordable way to reduce pain, increase mobility, and feel more at home in your body. All you need to do is take the first step.

👉 Ready to try? Join me for gentle, pain-relieving online yoga sessions designed for real people with real bodies. Click here to get started today.