Bikram Yoga also sometimes referred to as Hot 26 & 2, is a fixed sequence of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises performed in a heated environment. The increased temperature in the hot yoga room allows an increase in stretching and flexibility and helps to prevent injury caused by stiff muscles. The hot yoga temperature combined with the hot yoga poses means that you will sweat a lot and burn calories during class. Your body will experience a huge detoxification as well. Drinking plenty of fluid before, during and after each hot yoga class is necessary.

In addition to providing a phenomenal workout, hot yoga heals the body holistically. Science has proven hot yoga’s positive impact on all body systems, and it has the added benefit of integrating increased mental aptitude into your practice. Students are often pleasantly surprised by things like their heightened ability to focus, reduced stress, and improved sleep patterns after consistently practicing hot yoga.

Hot yoga can help to improve flexibility and strength. Hot yoga can also help with the ability to deal with stress and to increase relaxation. Hot yoga can be a very effective way of losing weight and toning up. The body can experience complete energy alignment (Chakra balancing) when performed on regular basis and with proper posture (asana) alignment.

Wear light, stretchy clothes that still cover the necessities. While covering as little skin as you feel comfortable with is beneficial for learning about and understanding your body, keep in mind that you will be moving and twisting in many different directions, so your clothes need to stay put during the hot yoga class.

In order to prepare for a hot yoga class, drink as much water as you can before coming to the class. Also, avoid large meals at least three hours before the start of class. If you are new, make sure you arrive at the studio at least 15 minutes before the class begins, and set up your mat towards the back of the room so you can observe the experienced students. Listen to the instructors who will give verbal cues on how to approach the postures. Don’t worry if you get tired or overwhelmed by the environment. Just sit out for a few postures and know that it will get easier over time.

Absolutely! Hot yoga has an amazing ability to help heal injuries of all types. However, make sure you discuss a prior injury with your instructor before attending class. Once made aware, he or she can help you get the most out of your hot yoga practice while remaining attentive to your limitations. 

Yes! Hot yoga is unique in that it is a well-rounded workout that is healing to the body. In just a 60 or 90 minute class, students will receive a cardiovascular experience that also increases both strength and flexibility. Hot yoga is also a great complement to every sport.

Quite Possibly! A typical 90 minute hot yoga session will burn about 500 to 1000 calories, depending on a variety of factors, such as your weight, sex, and how consistently you practice hot yoga.   Hot yoga is an excellent cardiovascular workout and helps your digestive, endocrine, lymphatic and respiratory systems, work at an optimal level while heightening body awareness. These benefits help you crave better food choices and portions and many students find themselves living healthier lifestyles.

The elevated hot yoga temperature and humidity protects muscles by allowing for deeper range of motion, intensifies the cardiovascular workout, and detoxifies the body through sweating. As is true when adjusting to any new setting, the environment can be a formidable challenge for the new practitioner, but students adjust much more quickly than they expect. 

At a minimum, bring plenty of water and a change of clothes for after a hot yoga class. Yoga mats and towels are available for rent during class, as well as shower towels and amenities in our locker rooms.  If you have your own yoga mat and yoga towel, please bring them with you.  

There is no evidence that shows practicing hot yoga is harmful to do while pregnant.  There are modifications that can be given for pregnant women that will make certain poses more comfortable and safe for expecting mothers. However, we strongly recommend to consult your doctor for approval before practicing.  Let your instructor know if you are pregnant so they can give you the modifications. 

Contrary to popular belief, hot yoga is not all about bending yourself into a pretzel. Students typically find that their flexibility increases quickly the more they attend class.  If you think you can’t do yoga because you aren’t flexible, then you are EXACTLY who should come to yoga!