1. Comfort is the Key
Bikram yoga, also known as hot yoga, is performed in a room heated to 105 degrees to help warm the muscles and increase detoxification of the body through sweating. In order to be comfortable, you must know how to dress for Bikram yoga. Do not wear baggy clothes for yoga, as they can inhibit your body movements. Choose tight yet elastic clothing which allows your body to move freely and easily. This is particularly important for Bikram yoga, as baggy clothing will begin to stick to sweaty skin, which is uncomfortable and distracting.
2. Keeping it Cool
Cotton fabrics are best when choosing clothes for Bikram yoga, as they allow your skin to breathe. Most people find that tight shorts or thin leggings are the most comfortable and help you to remain as cool as possible. You may want to layer your clothing, wearing a tank top over a sports bra and shedding a layer as you begin to work up a sweat. Additionally, prepare to practice yoga barefoot, leaving your shoes and socks on the sideline, as you get the best grip and balance with nothing on your feet.
3. How to Handle Hair
Hair can really get in the way while doing yoga, particularly hot yoga which causes you to sweat up a storm. Wear long hair tied up high on the head so that it does not inhibit postures performed on your back. Additionally, you may find it helpful to wear a headband or even cover your head with a bandana, particularly if your hair is too short to tie back, as it will help to keep hair and sweat off of your face. You may want to carry a small towel with you as well and keep it next to your mat. Resist the urge to wipe sweat from your brow with your hands, as it will cause you to slip on hand-to-ground postures.
4. Clothes for After Yoga are Just as Important
The moment you step out of your cozy, heated room you will be hit with a cold draft and your sweat-soaked clothing will quickly chill you to the bone. Besides, let's face it, Bikram yoga is sweaty business, and most of us don't like to face the world while drenched in our own sweat. Bring along a quick change of clothes that you throw on after your session to help maintain your body temperature and allow you to step out into the world feeling refreshed and, well...clean.
Member Comments