When you hear the term "hot yoga," it's easy for Bikram Yoga's style to come to mind. That's because this style has become such a popular and widespread one. But Bikram yoga is not the only type of hot yoga you can experience, so consider your various options or try them all to see which class you like or even whether you prefer the regular, non-heated variety.
Bikram Yoga
Hot yoga is only a Bikram yoga class if it follows founder Bikram Choudhury's set of 26 poses that are practiced for 90 minutes. Official Bikram yoga is only practiced in studios affiliated with Bikram yoga. This is the hottest type of hot yoga with temperatures that start at 105 degrees Fahrenheit with 40 percent humidity but often exceed those heat and humidity levels.
Try These Other Types
Hot yoga is really any type of yoga practiced in high heats, so you can find a variety of classes. Baptiste hot power yoga includes a blend of yoga styles with meditation included, and you practice it in 90-degree heat. Hot power yoga classes are usually general yoga classes that vary depending on the teacher and the studio, with heats ranging from 90 to 105 degrees.
If you're not interested in these more vigorous classes that give you an intense workout, try a heated slow flow yoga class. A benefit of a slow flow class is that it can minimize the risk of injury. Heat makes your body more limber, so it can be easy to push too far and injure yourself, but the chances of that happening are much lower when you perform the exercises slowly and carefully.
Many teachers and studios offer specials to new students so you might be able to try these different class styles for free or at a discount. See which style you like and which amount of heat you prefer. Comment and let us know your favorite type!
By: Alice Jennings (G+)