Hot yoga is one of the hottest trends in fitness. It’s an intense form of yoga that takes place in a heated room, typically around 105 degrees F. This heat helps to relax your muscles and increase flexibility, leading to a deeper stretch and better results. But before you jump into hot yoga classes, it’s important to know the basics. Here’s what you need to know before starting hot yoga.
Equipment & Clothing
Hot yoga requires special clothing so it’s important to dress appropriately for the class. Choose lightweight clothing that allows your body to move freely and won't absorb sweat (like cotton). Avoid wearing heavy fabrics like denim or wool as they can cause you to overheat quickly. Additionally, bring water and a towel—you'll definitely need them in a hot yoga class!
Pace Yourself
Hot yoga is extremely intense so it's important not to get ahead of yourself or try poses that are too advanced for you. Start slowly and work your way up to more difficult poses as you become more comfortable with the practice. Remember that it takes time to build strength and flexibility in your body so don't be discouraged if certain poses seem too challenging at first. Just take your time, focus on proper form, and breathe steadily throughout each pose.
Focus on Your Breath
Breathwork is key when practicing hot yoga—it helps you stay focused and energized during class. Make sure you're taking deep breaths throughout each pose—inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling through your mouth—to get the most out of the practice and avoid getting overheated in the process!
Conclusion
Hot yoga can be an incredibly rewarding experience if done right! By following these tips and being mindful of your limits, you can look forward to feeling healthier, stronger, calmer, and more flexible after each session. Most importantly, don't forget to have fun! Hot yoga is a great way to challenge yourself while still enjoying every minute of it! So grab some clothes that let you breathe easy, keep a steady pace throughout class, focus on your breath work, and start reaping all of the amazing benefits hot yoga has to offer!