High temperatures and humidity are integral to a Bikram yoga class. Bikram yoga is performed in a carpeted room that is heated to approximately 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Bikram yoga classes last for 90 minutes and are led by a certified Bikram yoga instructor. Your class consists of 26 poses in a sequence and two breathing postures.
Bikram Yoga
Bikram Choudhury is the creator of Bikram yoga. Originally from India, Bikram developed his style of yoga to work every system of the body. His sequence of postures strengthens organs, muscles, veins, ligaments and tendons. The stronger each of these individual systems becomes, the better your body functions as a whole.
Temperature
The warmer your body is, the more flexible you are. When you can sink deeper into a yoga pose your range of motion improves so you receive greater strengthening and stretching benefits. According to "Yoga Journal," Bikram decided to heat up the yoga studios to mimic the temperature in India, which can be over 100 degrees.
Humidity
A Bikram yoga studio is required to have a 40 percent humidity level. The reasons for the humidity level include inducing a faster heart rate, which promotes cardiovascular health; improving blood circulation through thinning of the blood; and releasing tension in the muscles to allow for a deeper stretch.
Sweat
The combination of yoga poses, heat and humidity will increase your sweat rate. Bikram yoga's goal with increased sweating is to rid your body of toxins. The heat helps open the pores on the surface of your skin allowing the toxins to leave your body. This process promotes the flow of blood and oxygen throughout your body to cleanse and purify your immune system.
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