Some Like It Hot

Hot Yoga, that is.

In recent years, many people have faced challenges that impacted their overall health and well-being. It’s important to remember not to be too self-critical when working toward personal wellness goals.

The practice of yoga has shifted, with many yogis adjusting their routines to better fit their comfort levels. People have become more mindful of group classes and close-contact activities, often choosing to bring their mats and gear. Many studios have adapted by offering smaller class sizes, private sessions, and pre-registration options. Floors and shared props are sanitized regularly—often between sessions. If you’re unsure about a studio’s current policies, don’t hesitate to ask, and yes, it’s perfectly reasonable to request a little more space if needed. Even under normal conditions, if you can reach out and touch someone during a yoga class, you’re likely too close. Group fitness anxiety is real, and returning to a structured workout routine should be approached thoughtfully. Not only have gyms and studios evolved, but members have as well. Many are making healthier decisions, such as staying home when feeling unwell and actively contributing to a cleaner fitness environment.

If you're looking to ease back into an exercise routine, hot yoga is an excellent way to condition your body without overexertion. Hot yoga has grown in popularity and offers many of the same benefits as traditional yoga. The key difference is the heated environment, which can provide a more intense workout. Research suggests that hot yoga improves balance, full-body strength, and range of motion. The warmth helps increase flexibility and muscle suppleness, allowing for deeper stretches.

Evidence also indicates that yoga practitioners have more gray matter in multiple brain regions, which may help with managing chronic pain. Since chronic pain affects muscles, energy levels, and mindset, hot yoga may offer emotional relief, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve perceived quality of life.

The warmth helps increase flexibility and muscle suppleness, allowing for deeper stretches. While the terms “hot yoga” and “Bikram yoga” are often used interchangeably, they refer to different practices. Bikram yoga is done in a room heated to 105°F with 40% humidity, while hot yoga is typically performed in a room heated between 80° and 100°F. It’s important to note that a heated room does not necessarily lead to burning more fat. Instead, the purpose of hot yoga is to enhance muscle flexibility, increase blood flow, and improve mobility by creating a warm environment that allows for deeper and safer stretching.