You have probably guessed from the name, the way in which hot yoga differs from other forms of yoga is that classes are performed in temperatures that are as high as 105 degrees fahrenheit. The overall aims are the same; to increase flexibility, improve posture and achieve all over body conditioning. However, the intense sauna-like conditions created by the heat chamber provides a mentally challenging workout which leaves you with a feeling of immense achievement.
Hot Yoga provides a full body workout from the inside out, engaging every cell, tissue, organ, muscle and ligament to improve both physical and mental strength. It balances stretching and flexibility whilst increasing heart rate to deliver a cardiovascular workout too.
The Benefits of Hot Yoga?
- Weight loss and weight management
- Detoxification
- Joint lubrication to alleviate stiffness and discomfort
- Improved fitness, mental strength and overall performance
- Improved flexibility
- Relaxes the mind and helps releave symptoms of anxiety and stress.
- Boosts immune system
How it works
- The Heat – The hot studio is warmed using the same technology that is used to heat baby incubators, providing a hygienic, warm environment. The idea behind the heat is that warm muscles stretch further with reduced risk of injury and that as you sweat your body releases toxins. Whilst your body fights to stay cool, your pulse rate increases resulting in more calories being burnt. Heat also causes your capillaries to dilate, which allows oxygen to be more effectively and evenly distributed to tissues, muscles, glands, and organs, to help remove more toxins from your body.
- Sweating – As your body sweats in an attempt to stay cool, dirt is removed from your pores and waste excreted via your liver and kidneys. Sweating also stimulates your metabolism and immune system helping you to burn calories more efficiently and stay healthy.
- Concentration – The challenging environment makes it difficult for your mind to stay focused. As you fight to concentrate under the intense conditions, your ability to focus and your mental strength should improve.
- Breath Control – Any form of yoga improves your breath control as your breathing connects your body and mind to help you hold poses. By learning to breath correctly you can help to calm the body and mind and help circulate oxygen more efficiently through your body.
Visit the FAQ page for more information on what to wear, bring and yoga etiquette.
