Bikram yoga is a type of hot yoga that involves 26 standard postures. Invented by Bikram Choudhury, Bikram yoga is typically performed in a studio with the temperature set at 105 degrees, making it impractical to wear shoes while practicing. For best results, call your local Bikram yoga studio and ask about its policy on wearing shoes in class.
Shoes
The Bikram sequence is a linear progression of 26 traditional yoga postures, many of which require gripping, holding or pulling at parts of the feet. Also, Bikram postures generally take place on a yoga mat and towel, both of which could become potentially hazardous if you are wearing shoes. Bikram Yoga NYC prohibits students from wearing shoes or socks to class.
Postures
Some of the postures practiced in Bikram yoga rely on balancing on one leg or standing on your toes. Wearing shoes during the poses can offer an unfair advantage, using the extra surface area of the shoe to help you obtain balance where you normally wouldn't. Also, postures such as rabbit pose and bow pose require gripping your feet with your hands to complete the stretch, potentially causing you to overextend due to the extra girth of your shoes.
Heat
Another hazard of wearing shoes during a Bikram class is the heat. According to Shari Waxman of "Yoga Journal," a standard Bikram studio has a temperature of 105 degrees with a humidity level of 60 percent, resulting in a head index of 149 degrees. By wearing shoes or socks, you are preventing your body's ability to release heat through your feet. This can potentially cause overheating during practice, resulting in dehydration or heat stroke.
Attire
According to Bikram Yoga Portsmouth, Bikram students are advised to wear nonrestricting clothing made of light, dry-weave fabrics. Shirts and long pants inhibit your ability to see your limbs in the mirror, making it difficult to provide corrections to your muscles, posture and alignment. Men are generally shirtless and wear runner's shorts or swimming trunks to start, while women opt for sports tops, tank tops and shorts. Shoes and socks are generally not recommended.
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