Let’s get straight to it what are the benefits of Bikram Yoga?

To know the benefits of Bikram Yoga let’s first think for a moment about standard Yoga. As we all know Yoga is series of stretches that make up various postures, or Asanas. It’s generally accepted that Yoga enhances a person’s flexibility and overall strength. While this doesn’t happen instantly over time almost all people experience a general improvement in balance, strength and flexibility.

Bikram Yoga pumps this up and adds in another component, massive HEAT. As if stretching your body into unusual and wonderful poses was not enough, Mr Bikram Choudhury (yes that’s really his name) decided he would fire up the heat.

Is it hot in here or is it just me?

The typical room temperature for Bikram Yoga is over 37.8C (100 F), this as you can imagine is hot. Of course this creates a huge amount of sweat much like a Swedish sauna. Just to make sure your getting the full experience a typical class is over 90 minutes long. One of the key benefits of Bikram Yoga is the heat, its designed to assist your muscles stretch further.

Bikram Yoga sounds full on, is it safe??

That question has been the topic of much debate however like all physical activity it’s always best to seek medical advice if you feel for some reason a super hot room and crazy stretching may not be for you. It is common for people to feel some  wooziness and nausea or vomiting especially if you aren’t accustomed to the extreme heat, as you get familiar with the environment this will gradually go away.

I’ll give it a go, what do I need to know?

Obviously it’s going to be hot, as in really hot. Just in case if you do have a health concern it’s probably best to seek some advice before having a go. However, if you are ok to go, you might want to drink plenty of water leading up to the training session. When you are there, it’s ok to drink some water however too much could make you feel sick.

Also, it is a good idea to bring a small towel and a specialized yoga mat. If you do bring a special Yoga mat it’s also a good idea to have a larger towel so you can stop squeaking while you move around on it when you’re all sweaty.

What to wear

You definitely don’t have to dress for the cold. For men it’s a good idea to wear shorts and tank top, for women tank tops, shorts or leotards would be the go.

Never suffer again

Mr Bikram Choudhury says that if the Bikram Yoga series is practiced in the right way, you’ll never suffer from any ailment in your life. Even though this is a substantial claim there is no doubt that Yoga is good for you.

However if you’re planning to turn up the heat and practice and get the benefits of Bikram Yoga just make sure you’re ready to sweat!