For many people, even the word ‘yoga’ is a scary one. People think that if they go to a yoga class it will be full of people who can put both legs behind their heads at the same time. Then putting ‘hot’ in front of the word ‘yoga’ makes that class sound even scarier! As a lover of yoga myself, I could not wait to try it when this new hot class started at my local studio and below I’m going to tell you all about it.
What Is Hot Yoga?
Hot yoga is basically your regular yoga class practiced in a room that is heated over 37 degrees.This is intense heat and is sure to make you sweat! There are many health benefits gained from practicing yoga in this heat. The main benefit being detoxification of the body. Ever used a face steamer to try and unblock pores on your face? This is the same thing except it’s your whole body that reaps the benefits.
Another benefit (for those who enjoy hardcore workouts and think that yoga is too gentle) is that the higher temperatures result in your heart rate increasing which also leads to an increased calorie burn. One benefit that I noticed myself whilst in the class is that my body felt a lot more flexible. It was as though I was melting into poses.
Is There Anything I Should Watch Out For?
Of course, practicing in a 37-degree room is not for everybody. A few of my friends that had tried it reported that during the class they felt light-headed and nauseous. It is important to keep this in mind and stay hydrated throughout the class. By sweating so much you lose a lot of water and important salts from the body. It is, therefore, important to keep yourself topped up. Isotonic drinks (which contain similar concentrations of salt and sugar as in the human body) and coconut water are great for this.
Another thing to watch out for is that you don’t over-stretch your muscles and cause yourself an injury. As I explained before, I got so much further than I’d ever imagined with my splits but caution needs to be taken when stretching that much if your body is not used to it. The heat helps to increase blood flow to muscles which makes you feel a lot more flexible than you actually are. You can easily go beyond your safe point and cause damage to the ligaments which can be painful. So please be careful!
Would I Recommend Hot Yoga?
Definitely! I’d recommend that you try it at least once. Make sure you take plenty of water and a towel (you’re going to be a sweaty mess). After the class I felt amazing, relaxed, completely stretched and as though I had accomplished something new. Thanks for reading!
