Studio Style. Insider Prices.
YOU'RE IN! GET YOUR REFERRAL DISCOUNT BY ENTERING YOUR EMAIL IN THE POPUP. ENTER CODE AT CHECKOUT.
GET 25% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH'S MEMBERSHIP BY ENTERING YOUR CODE AT CHECKOUT.

Bikram Yoga vs Hot Yoga: What’s the Difference?

What’s the difference between Bikram and hot yoga? Well, Bikram yoga is hot yoga, but hot yoga is not necessarily Bikram yoga. As clear as muddy water, right?

While these two styles of yoga seem very similar, there’s a few differences that set them apart. 

Bikram yoga: what is it?

benefits of hot yoga

The Bikram yoga method consists of 26 Hatha yoga postures and two breathing exercises in a specific sequence. This sequence is performed twice in 90 minutes in a room heated to 105 degrees fahrenheit with 40 percent humidity. It’s basically like doing yoga in a sauna. 

On top of class structure, Bikram yoga also calls for carpeted floors, mirrors at the front of the room, no music and no hands-on instructing, as well as a strict dialogue all Bikram instructors must adhere to. 

Hot yoga: what is it?

bikram yoga

While both Bikram and hot yoga are performed in heated rooms, Bikram yoga abides by a strict temperature and routine. Hot yoga, on the other can, varies in temperature and includes whatever sequence and yoga positions the instructor has prepared to teach.

Freedom of flow isn’t the only difference of hot yoga. Instructors are allowed to play music and give hands-on instruction. There isn’t one single way to practice hot yoga; each studio, teacher and class will be a completely different experience. 

Benefits of hot yoga and Bikram yoga

hot yoga

While doing yoga in a room heated to over one hundred degrees sounds nothing short of difficult, the benefits from the heat are immense.

Both hot and Bikram yoga provide a cleansing, toxic-riding sweat session that can leave you feeling euphoric far after you’ve left the studio. Plus, the heat allows for increased lung capacity, better circulation, enhanced flexibility (be careful with this one as it can lead to common yoga injuries), weight loss, enhanced lymphatic system and a balanced digestive system.

How often you should do hot yoga is a debated topic. Incorporating anywhere from one to three weekly classes into your workout routine will definitely enhance your practice. However, because you’ll sweat so much, it’s crucial to rehydrate and replenish after class. With that being said, if you have any medical ailments, it’s important to talk with your doctor before you try hot or Bikram yoga. 

If you’re not a fan of the heat, then no worries. Regular, non-heated yoga classes provide the same amazing benefits. So, do whatever is best for YOU and enjoy the journey!



About the Author

yogaclub tribe leader

Kristen Hopkins is a CYT 200 trained in Vinyasa, Hot and Restorative yoga with a variety of other fitness specialties from barre, TRX, yoga and cycle living. She currently teaches in Nashville, TN and strives to make her classes adaptable to all levels. Most of her free time is spent traveling with her amazing husband to support their three athletic children or getting all the cuddles from their 4 rescue pups.

Related Articles

Female Fashion Advice: How to Look Great in Whatever You Wear
Female Fashion Advice: How to Look Great in Whatever You Wear
It only takes a few seconds of scrolling on social media or browsing the web to uncover endless articles and columns on female fashion advice. It’s a subject that’s always changing, evolving, and b...
Read More
Features the Best Online Clothing Stores Should Have
Features the Best Online Clothing Stores Should Have
It’s no secret that eCommerce has become a dominant force in the fashion industry. By shopping online, you not only get the convenience of orders shipped directly to your doorstep, but you also hav...
Read More
Cute Legging Outfits that are Perfect for Your Next Yoga Session
Cute Legging Outfits that are Perfect for Your Next Yoga Session
Here we go again – time for another yoga class, and you’ve got nothing to wear? Okay, that might be an exaggeration if you have a wardrobe full of activewear, but we all know the feeling of being u...
Read More
What are the Most Breathable Fabrics? A Guide to Sweat-free Fabrics
What are the Most Breathable Fabrics? A Guide to Sweat-free Fabrics
Whether it’s the sweltering summer heat, a high-intensity cardio session, or a long and grueling yoga class, you’re going to want clothes that breathe easily. Fabric makes a substantial difference ...
Read More
What Does Athleisure Mean and Why is the Trend so Popular?
What Does Athleisure Mean and Why is the Trend so Popular?
No matter where you look or listen these days, it seems like athleisure has taken over. From magazine covers to reality TV and across social media, we’re seeing celebs and influencers embrace athle...
Read More
What Are The Basic Wardrobe Essentials You Need In Your Closet
What Are The Basic Wardrobe Essentials You Need In Your Closet
A tee with flexible, breathable fabric is so ideal. It can be worn for lunch out, an exercise class, or meeting your friends at a bar. If you haven’t got a sporty t-shirt to fill this gap, add at l...
Read More

BACK TO TOP
Sale

Unavailable

Sold Out