Things You Must Know Before Starting Bikram Yoga
March 04, 2010So what happens in a Bikram yoga class and what are the benefits? If you watch a yoga video or join a class you will see poses being practiced by the yogis. People will be sweating quite extremely and yet still continue to practice. This is all part of the way Bikram yoga has been designed. You will see the 26 postures done in sequence, each one being repeated twice. This kind of yoga is usually practiced in a hot room, hence the name 'Hot Yoga'. The heat and subsequent sweating increases the effectiveness of Bikram yoga.
You will notice in class that each step is practiced very slowly. This is not like an aerobics class with quick movements but requires deep focus and concentration. It's important to keep your fluids up and drink lots of water as the class usually runs for 90 minutes.
All people of all age groups can start doing Bikram yoga. The heat may be a factor for older people or young kids so speak to a qualified professional before beginning lessons. It's often a good idea to bring along a small towel to wipe your face and also a larger towel to put over your mat to stop it from becoming slippery, or otherwise take an anti-slip mat.
If you can not attend a class you can watch Bikram yoga on video. Most of the time enough detail is shown so that you can find the right clothes and copy the poses that they perform.
As this yoga is practiced in a heated room you should take this into consideration with the clothes you bring. This means wearing a minimum amount of clothing and avoid wearing clothes that will cause you to overheat. That being said, pick something that you will feel comfortable and confident wearing in front of other practitioners.
For the men it's best just to wear shorts and a tank top. It's best not to wear full sleeve shirts or long pants that may restrict your movement doing the poses. Cotton is best as it will absorb sweat easily.
For the women, tank tops, shorts or leotards are usually worn. Also look for cotton clothing, as this will help to absorb sweat during the workout.
Keep these tips in mind next time you attend Bikram Yoga, wear light clothing, keep water levels up, watch out for slippery mats and have fun.
These few tips will help get you started but for more Bikram Yoga Poses and Bikram Yoga Postures click here.
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