What is Hot Yoga?

Yoga is great for your overall health, wellness, and weight loss. Its benefits are tremendous for your physical and psychological health. There are many different styles of yoga that are practised in the world. Hot yoga is one of these styles which has become intensely popular in recent years.

Hot yoga, also known as Bikram Yoga, was developed by Bikram Choudhury in Kolkata (India). Although “hot” and “Bikram” are used interchangeably, both are different. Hot yoga refers to yoga poses or exercises which are done in a heated room or studio. Whereas Bikram yoga only includes one style of hot yoga which is performed in a room heated to 105° F with 40% humidity. It includes a series of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises (pranayama exercises) which are performed in each 90-minute class.

The main purpose of hot yoga is to induce profuse sweating by performing vigorous yoga poses at high temperature. The heat and intense sweating are believed to cleanse your body and loosen your muscle.

Some tips and precautions before you join a hot yoga class

1. Since you will be sweating a lot, it is important to bring your own yoga mat and choose the right yoga wear.

2. Also, drink plenty of water before and during the session to stay hydrated. Also, it is recommended to eat 2 hours before your class.

3. The pregnant woman should avoid hot yoga as it raises the core temperature of the body.

4. If you have any chronic conditions, then consult your doctor first before joining the class.

Benefits of Hot Yoga

1. Increased flexibility and balance in the body.

2. Increased blood flow and circulation to the muscles.

3. Fat and weight loss.

4. Reduction in blood pressure and cholesterol.

5. Reduction in stress and improvement in overall mood.

6. Improvement in overall strength and fitness.

7. A release of toxins.

8. Stronger immune system.

9. Increased metabolism.

At Shapes Fitness Centre, we have long recognized the spiritual and health benefits of yoga. Our extensive variety of class types and the experience of our teaching staff will meet all of your yoga needs.  

With 6 heated studios, we help others realize the benefits of yoga as well. Our studios are located at Shapes Pembina Highway, Shapes Mcphillips, Shapes Nairn, Shapes Portage, Shapes Henderson, and Shapes Vermillion.

For more information and to take a look at our yoga rates to visit www.shapes.ca.