Bikram Yoga (or hot yoga)

Bikram Yoga is a popular yoga style created by Bikram Choudhury in the 1970s. It is characterized by a sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises performed in a yoga studio heated to approximately 40°C. This yoga style is known for its intensity and health benefits, as well as its studio practice approach.

Origins of Bikram Yoga

Bikram Yoga was created by Bikram Choudhury, a former Indian yoga champion. Choudhury developed the method after an accident that

damaged his legs. He created this yoga style to accelerate his recovery and help rebalance his body. He decided to practice in a hot room to accelerate the effects of the practice on his body and improve flexibility.

However, over the years, Choudhury's career has been marked by numerous scandals, including accusations of sexual harassment, discrimination, and misconduct. As a result, many Bikram yoga studios were closed, and Choudhury lost his reputation as a yoga leader.

In 2016, Choudhury was sued for sexual harassment by six women and ordered to pay millions of dollars in damages. Since then, his career has largely been dormant, and he has been forced to leave the United States.

In conclusion, although Bikram Choudhury played a significant role in popularizing Bikram Yoga, his later career was marked by scandals that significantly tarnished his reputation.

A documentary on Netflix chronicles Bikram Choudhury's life and addresses the scandals.

How a Bikram Yoga class unfolds

A Bikram Yoga class usually lasts 90 minutes and includes a sequence of 26 postures, designed to work every muscle, joint, and organ in the body. The postures are performed at a sustained pace to increase blood circulation and body temperature, which can help eliminate toxins and improve flexibility. Each posture is associated with a specific breath that helps strengthen the respiratory system and improve concentration.

Of course, as the room is hot, suitable yoga attire is essential. For men, swim boxer shorts are perfect. For women, tight shorts are often preferred. In any case, you should bring your water bottle or flask.

Who is Bikram Yoga for?

Bikram Yoga is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their fitness level and physical abilities. However, it can be a little challenging for beginners, as it takes place in a hot room and involves many fast and intensive movements.

It is therefore important to remember that everyone can progress at their own pace and not compare themselves to other practitioners. The benefits of Bikram Yoga include improved flexibility, reduced stress, increased endurance, and improved blood circulation. It is an ideal practice for people looking to improve their general physical condition and mental well-being.

In conclusion, Bikram Yoga is an intense yoga style that focuses on sequencing postures in a hot room. This practice can be difficult for beginners but can offer many health benefits, including improved flexibility.

For a comparison of hot styles and other yoga practices, check out our complete guide to different styles.