What is Bikram Yoga?

Bikram yoga or hot yoga started to become popular in the early 1970s. Derived from traditional Hatha yoga (which is focuses on the shape and poses held), hot yoga uses a set 26 poses and 2 breathing exercises in each session. In addition to the set yoga sequence this style is conducted in a specially heated room (hence its popular name ‘hot’ yoga). This encourages sweating and can help stimulate metabolism and the burning of fat. Generally it takes about 90 minutes to complete the yoga sequence.

Benefits of Bikram Yoga

Hot yoga offers a range of benefits to men and women. Some of the most common benefits include:

• Improved muscle tone and strength
• Aids weight loss
• Better response to stress
• Great way to get in shape
• Natural detox
• Stimulates metabolism

Due to the set poses and breathing exercises Bikram yoga is easy to learn (although some poses will take a while to learn). We advise that drink ample water before and after each session to prevent dehydration because of the specially designed heated room. Check your local yoga studio or gym to see if Bikram yoga is offered near you.