Frequently Asked Questions
A: First of all, we're so glad you've decided to take this major step toward your health. You'll find students at every different skill level, so don't be intimidated or think everyone is a pro at this. Everyone was a beginner at one point, so we all know how it feels.
Please plan to arrive at the studio 15 minutes before class to register. The room is kept at 105 degrees and 50% humidity, so be prepared to sweat!
Drink plenty of water so your body is properly hydrated. An empty stomach is ideal; try not to eat within 3 hours of class. If you need to eat, try fruit (bananas are great to keep your potassium levels up), yogurt or a granola bar.
Wear light clothing such as a sports bra and shorts, or lightweight yoga apparel. Avoid sweats or heavy, baggy clothing.
You'll need a yoga mat, large towel and water to drink during class. We have these items available for rent or purchase at the studio, just in case you forget.
This class is designed for all levels of fitness, but if you have special medical conditions, please consult your doctor first and inform our teachers.
A: Bikram designed this series of Hatha yoga to be practiced in 105-degree heat, to mimic the climate of his Native India. There are numerous benefits to practicing yoga in the heat, but here are a few of the main benefits:
- Your body burns fat more effectively in heat. Fat is redistributed and burned as energy during a session of Bikram Yoga. It is common to lose inches of shape in a very short time.
- Sweating promotes detoxification and elimination through the skin — your body’s largest eliminating organ. Detoxifying the body has been shown to improve a number of health issues like eczema, psoriasis and liver problems.
- The heat produces a fluid-like stretch, allowing for greater range of movement in joints, muscles, ligaments and other supporting structures of the body. Your body is actually more flexible in the heat!
- Capillaries dilate in the heat to bring oxygen to the tissues, muscles, glands and organs.
- The heat challenges you mentally — improving your willpower, self-control, concentration and determination.
- Similar to when your body raises its temperature (fever) to fight off infection, the heat improves T-cell function and your immune system.
A: Wear light clothing such as a sports bra and shorts, or lightweight yoga apparel. Avoid sweats or heavy, baggy clothing.
You'll need a yoga mat, large towel and water to drink during class. We have these items available for rent or purchase at the studio, just in case you forget.
A: Bikram Yoga is an intense cardiovascular workout. Practiced regularly, along with a sensible diet, it can certainly lead to weight loss. The number on the scale may be misleading, as you will be building muscle. But you should see the difference in your shape and how your clothes fit.
The following is a sample of how many calories burned during a 90-minute session of Bikram Yoga. To calculate your weight exactly, enter your information here.
| Bikram Yoga Calorie Counter | |
|---|---|
| Weight | Calories burned |
| 100 | 680 |
| 125 | 850 |
| 150 | 1,021 |
| 175 | 1,191 |
| 200 | 1,361 |
| 225 | 1,531 |
| 250 | 1,701 |
In addition to cardiovascular benefits, yoga is an aerobic activity. The active standing element of one hour of yoga can burn the same amount of calories as running an 11-minute mile.
A: You should always consult your physician or holistic health care provider before starting a new exercise program. When you fill out the registration form, you’ll note any health conditions and we'll take them into consideration when showing you how to do the postures.
Many people have made Bikram Yoga a part of their lives, because of the relief it has provided from chronic conditions. You can find specific conditions and success stories at http://www.bikramyoga.com/Testimonials
Here are just some of the conditions Bikram Yoga has been found to improve or lessen the severity of:
Arthritis
Back Pain
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Depression
Diabetes
Fibromyalgia
Heart disease
Hepatitis C
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Hypertension
Hypoglycemia
Insomnia
Kidney disorders
PMS
Sciatica
Scoliosis
Sinus Infections
Skin conditions
A: This is the most common misconception that prevents people from practicing yoga. The truth is, yoga is not about how flexible you are. It's about stretching your body and spine to your own personal capability. It's about breathing and staying present to the moment.
You'll find the heat allows your body a more fluid stretch, adding to your flexibility. Rest assured, if you maintain the correct form of the posture and work with effort, energy and enthusiasm, you will receive 100% of the benefits.
A: Yes. Bikram Yoga enhances your ability to be in the present moment. It also leads to better concentration and focus.
Yoga offers some obvious benefits in reducing the effects of stress hormones. The deep breathing and relaxation practiced in yoga help to reduce stress and lower blood pressure. And the feeling of accomplishment that comes with completing a challenging 90-minute workout does wonders for your self-esteem.
The ability to breathe through the safe stresses in the yoga room is a transferable skill your brain can use repeatedly in real life situations. Your body and brain are co-learning about your response to stressful stimuli. Pretty soon, when faced with a stressful situation, the brain reassures the body, “We've done this before,” and there's no reason to worry or fear.
Also, as we become more aware of our inner life, we notice how events, interactions and even the atmospheric pressure affect us. When we are aware, we can exercise choice in our response. This helps us balance our emotional life.
