Everything you’ve always wondered about Hot Yoga

What is hot yoga?

Honestly, it really is just yoga, but in a hot room! You’ll sweat, you’ll stretch, you’ll strengthen. The room will get to around 40 degrees, with raised humidity, so it’s toasty. Our hot yoga class is the same sequence every time, so you get used to the poses and can focus on form, breath, and leaning into the session.

What are the physical benefits of hot yoga?

Hot yoga can really help with flexibility – hamstrings and lower back flexibility in particular. The heat warms up your muscles, easing you into a deeper stretch.[1] Hot yoga can impact cardiovascular health as it raises the heart-rate to moderate intensity which can positively impact endurance.[2] It also has an impact on your VO2max, a measure of aerobic fitness.[3] Sweating and moving can help with skin health and circulation, although this has not been robustly studied to date.

What are the mental and emotional benefits of hot yoga?

Heat plus breathwork lends itself to a very calming practice, despite the challenge of heat and balance. There’s something about the meditative space involved in holding a balance that really focuses the mind and allows the worries of the week to drop away for a moment.

Is hot yoga good for beginners?

Yes! Wayne is an expert at leading the class and suggesting adjustments for varying confidence. Come along and have a go!

What should you bring to class?

A yoga mat, water bottle, and yourself! Some people find it useful to bring a small towel, or a yoga mat towel with them to mop up when things get really hot and sweaty.

Anything I should be careful of?

It is a really hot class, and you will sweat, so there is always a risk of dehydration. Stay hydrated before and after class, and if you feel you need to you can always move into child’s pose or lie down for a few minutes to collect yourself mid-session. It’s your hour, and it’s always important to listen to your body.

In summary…

 If you have tight hips and shoulders, want to improve flexibility, are looking for calm alongside a challenging workout, want to deepen your yoga practice or just want to try something new ~ click here to book, we can’t wait to welcome you to the studio!

References:

[1] Tracy BL, Hart CE. Bikram yoga training and physical fitness in healthy young adults. J Strength Cond Res. 2013 Mar;27(3):822-30.

[2] Hunter SD, et al. The effect of Bikram yoga on arterial stiffness in young and older adults. Journal of Alternative Complementary Medicine. 2013 Dec;19(12):930-4

[3] Bourbeau KC, et al. Cardiovascular, Cellular, and Neural Adaptations to Hot Yoga versus Normal-Temperature Yoga. International Journal of Yoga. 2021 May-Aug;14(2):115-126