Hot Yoga: Vigorous Workout or Torturous Inferno?

Hot yoga is the newest workout trend – and by hot, I mean the 105 degrees kind of hot!

Hot yoga, more specifically Bikram hot yoga in this case, is an exercise performed under extreme heat and humidity. It is a 90-minute session in which 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises are performed to work the whole body. The workout is known for its muscle healing ability, as the heat and the postures work together to stretch the muscles and increase blood flow throughout the body.

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A few weeks ago, I joined a hot yoga studio, Bikram Yoga NYC, just to see what everyone was raving about. And I have to say, I’m starting to see what all the hub-bub is about.

I’ve been an athlete my entire life and have spent countless hours in the gym. But I have never felt quite so refreshed after a workout before.

I have to admit, I was a little apprehensive when I first went to a class. The thought of sweating that much seemed gross and, even though I had done yoga before, I believed I wouldn’t catch on quick enough. But luckily, I had a really great teacher my first day, Eddie, who made me want to keep coming back.

Throughout my years in sports, I have had a handful of injuries, both big and small, that have left my body feeling achy. And my asthma has never done me any favors.

But since starting Bikram yoga, my body honestly feels better. My knees don’t hurt the way they used to and I swear my breathing has gotten better. And I always leave the studio feeling refreshed and happy, even in this unbearable heat (I mean the one outside, not in the studio …).

This is not to say that it is easy though. It requires patience and discipline that I think comes the more you practice. But even in the short period of time that I’ve been practicing, I see my technique improving everyday, which gives me an

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extra boost of energy. This is also nice because I feel like you don’t see quite as much improvement so quickly with traditional exercise. Or at least, it’s less noticeable.

I will admit, it is a bit harsh on the wallet for an unlimited membership. But I’m thinking a 10-day pass with some other workouts will my ticket to success. I would definitely recommend trying this type of yoga. And give it more than one class, you kind of need to break yourself in a little to really appreciate all the benefits.

And get ready to sweat! You will feel good though, I promise!