How to Join a Bikram Yoga Class

Bikram yoga has grown in popularity in recent years due to an increased Western interest in yoga. Join a Bikram class and see if this style of yoga is right for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Yoga Mat
• Non-stick cover for mat
• Water
• Towels
• Layered clothing

Join a Bikram Yoga Class

1. Check with local Bikram yoga studios. Most Bikram yoga is taught at an official, sanctioned Bikram studio due to the specific nature of the practice.
2. Come prepared. Bring layered clothing which you can remove as you heat up. You should also have a good attitude, towels, a non-slip cover for your mat and water.
3. Think about your commitment level. If you are just experimenting to see if Bikram is the right kind of yoga for you, buy one class or a small class series. When you have decided that Bikram is your choice of study, most studios will allow you to purchase unlimited monthly classes, or an annual series.
4. Know that it's going to be very hot. Bikram classes generally heat the asana or practice room to 105 degrees F with 50 percent humidity.
5. Learn the routine. Bikram yoga follows a set sequence of 26 asanas or postures with 2 breathing exercises. This is always the sequence and there is no variation in true Bikram yoga.
6. Enjoy the all-level practice. Bikram classes include all levels and abilities in one room so you will likely practice with beginners and advanced students.

Find Bikram Yoga

7. Consider private study. Yoga instructors are available for private instruction or instruction of small groups. Of course, this type of instruction is also more expensive than taking a single group class.
8. Look for classes described as "hot" yoga. This is often a synonym for Bikram classes, and will likely carry similar sequencing and themes derived from Bikram teaching such as elevated temperatures.
9. Check yoga magazines. Magazines such as Yoga Journal have nationwide circulation and are easy to find. You can check the yoga listings or advertisements for Bikram classes (see Resources below).
10. Talk to other yoga studios. Studios focused on Iyengar, Astanga or Kundalini yoga may have references for local studios and teachers of Bikram.

Tips & Warnings

• Bikram yoga is by nature very hot. Heat lubricates the body and joints, sometimes encouraging a false sense of ability. Never go beyond your limit in yoga class as you may find that you have injured yourself afterwards.