There are significant differences between hot and regular yoga. Hot yoga is much more vigorous than regular yoga. That’s not saying that there aren’t vigorous regular yoga classes, but hot yoga is rarely gentle; it is generally athletic and intense. Regular yoga, conversely, is quite often peaceful and slow.

You may not lose weight in a regular style of yoga, such as Hatha or restorative yoga. But the heat and the intensity of a hot yoga class will mean that it will be much easier to lose weight.

So, read on as we give you an introduction to hot yoga. And then, we’ll list the 5 key differences between hot and regular yoga.

Later, we’ll talk about how hot yoga is good for your overall fitness. And then, we’ll talk about the benefits of practicing hot yoga in order to lose weight.

If you are looking for an intense, full body workout, hot yoga may be just your style. Keep on reading to learn more about this exciting and dynamic style of yoga.

What does hot yoga mean?

Regular yoga practitioners may be wondering what exactly hot yoga is. You may have heard of a hot yoga style called Bikram Yoga, but there are actually many types of hot yoga classes.

But, even though hot yoga classes vary, generally, as the name suggests, they are practiced in a yoga studio that has been heated up sometimes over 100 degF.

And the purpose of practicing yoga at such a high heat is that it will make you more flexible and will cause you to lose weight quicker. You’ll find that you become fitter, stronger and even calmer and happier from practicing hot yoga.

What to look out for

Things to watch out for when practicing hot yoga including overheating and becoming faint. If you’re planning to check out a hot yoga class for the first time, please make sure you are well hydrated. Experts suggest that you start hydrating days before your hot yoga class, just in case.

Hot yoga also is pretty hard on your heart, so if you have any cardio issues, you should avoid such an intense practice.

And, if you’re pregnant, hot yoga is not a good choice. Pregnant women should stick to gentler types of yoga to keep themselves and their babies safe.

But, even if you’re not pregnant, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before you take your first hot yoga classes. Make sure your heart and your body are healthy and can take a hot and intense workout.

Once you get a clean bill of health, then go for it!