Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is Bikram Hot Yoga?

Bikram Yoga is a Hatha Yoga developed by Bikram Choudhury into a series of 26 postures carried out in a heated room.

Why the heat?

The studio is kept at a temperature of approximately 105°F (40°C). The heat warms up your body facilitating safer stretching for your muscles. The heat also promotes sweating which in turn flushes toxins from the body.

What do I need for class?


A Mat (Bring your own or rent for £2)
Towels x 2 (1 for class and 1 to shower)
Bottle of water
We rent towels (£2.50 each) and sell water (£1.00)

How much does it cost?

All our prices, including special offers, are listed on the prices section of our website

Are there any special offers for new students?

We always have an introductory offer for new students. Please check the website for details of or current offer.

What are the main benefits of Bikram Yoga?

Bikram Yoga:

·       Works the whole body from head to toe
·       Aids the digestion and facilitates weight loss
·       Increases energy levels
·       Helps sport (and other) injuries
·       Improves posture
·       Eases and prevents back pain
·       Increases flexibility and strength
·       Reduces stiffening of joints
·       Boosts immune system
·       Detoxes and cleanse
·       Relieves tension
·       Relaxes the body and mind
·       Increases sense of wellbeing
·       Please see student testimonials page

What if I’ve never tried yoga before?

Yoga is for everyone. Each class is open to beginners and follows the same format whether it is your first class or whether you have been practising for many years.

It does not matter how well you do each posture, only that you try the right way

Will I gain cardiovascular fitness?

Whatever your fitness level you will find Bikram Yoga challenging (that’s why so many people come back for more). Bikram Yoga provides a strong cardiovascular work out. Some of the postures speed up the heart rate in the first few seconds thus strengthening the heart. A good sign of health is that you can speed the heart rate up quickly and then slow it down quickly. You will learn to practice the postures with your breath. The heat in the room also supports your cardio work out.

Can I lose weight?

With regular practice you will lose weight and develop muscle tone. Do not be surprised if at first you do not seem to be losing weight on the scales even though you look lighter, do not forget muscle weighs more than body fat. As you are losing weight you are building strength and stamina.

What if I’m not flexible?

What better reason to come to Yoga? This means Yoga is for you. This is one of the most common misconceptions that prevent people from coming to classes. Yoga is not all about how flexible you are, it is about stretching your body and spine in all directions. There are very few people that start Yoga perfectly healthy and flexible. You just need to try the right way and work with your own body and you will get 100% benefit. You will be amazed how quickly your flexibility can improve and the heated room provides a safe environment to do this.

Do I have to be fit?

Bikram Yoga is designed for all levels of fitness, but if you have special medical conditions or injuries, please consult your doctor first and inform your teacher before class.

Am I too old?

No! Never too old. Classes are open to everybody. Everyone can do the postures to the extend their body, fitness level, and flexibility allows, as long as you are trying in the correct way you will reap the many medical benefits of Bikram Yoga.

Bikram Yoga builds bone density and thus prevents the osteoporosis, which can only be appreciated at older age. So whether you are in your twenties or in your seventies your body gets fantastic medical benefits and what your body exactly needs to maintain its wellbeing at your given age.

How long are the classes?

The classes lasts 90 or 60 minutes.

Do I need to drink water before class?

Drink plenty of water before class and throughout the day. It is estimated that for optimum health you need at least 2 litres per day for normal body maintenance. If you are practising Bikram Yoga you should aim to drink more.

Should I eat before class?

Not directly before class. Preferably come to class on an empty stomach but not hungry. It is best not to eat anything heavy 2 hours before class.

What should I wear?

Avoid loose fitting clothes.
Women mostly wear sports tops and shorts or leggings.
Men wear shorts. T shirt optional.
We also sell yoga clothing in our studio boutique, for inspiration please visit our reception.