Get Ready To Sweat

Yogis finishing up a Bikram class. Image courtesy of Bikram Hot Yoga Houston website.

Founder and creator, Bikram Choudhury, brought Bikram’s Yoga College of India to the United States. Bikram is now practiced all over the world and is a copyrighted and trademarked practice. Fortunately, Houston is home to two Bikram schools, one in the Rice Village and one in the Galleria area (also now in Sugar Land).

Bikram classes everywhere are structured exactly the same. There are no beginner or advanced classes, rather you work at your own pace. The room is heated to 105 degrees at all times of the year, much like our lovely Houston summers. Don’t let this discourage you! We promise, it’s not as bad as it sounds; it’s actually an incredible workout that leaves you feeling like no other.

When you take a class, you move through a series of 26 postures in 90 minutes that work your body from head to toe. You begin and end with a series of breathing exercises that bring oxygen into the body and heat your inner core. During the first half of class, standing postures both stretch and increase your heart rate preparing you for the next series. The second half of class contains a range of strengthening and stretching postures performed on the floor.

There are other “hot” yoga classes around town, but Bikram is one of a kind. Not only does practicing Bikram help you strengthen your body and mind, increase flexibility, lose weight, stimulate circulation, oxygenate your blood, and detoxify, it will help you acclimate to the summer heat!

If you go for a class, remember to bring your yoga mat, a towel, and plenty of water. Be sure to hydrate far in advance of class as well. Wear something comfortable that breathes and is non-constricting.

Be brave and give Bikram a try. You will work hard during class, but we promise making it through is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world!

For more information about Bikram Hot Yoga in Houston, visit the website.