Getting Hot and Sweaty- Bikram Yoga

• You do the same set of poses every class. This might get boring for some people, but I like the routine and knowing what to expect next, and it means you can really see the improvements in postures over time. 

• I've had various different teachers so far, who have all been great at encouraging newbies (of which there have been a few, due to the 30days for £40 offer at my studio) and offering plenty of verbals cues and guidance. They don't actually take part in the class though, which is different to any other yoga class I've been to, and sometimes walk around correcting alignment etc.

• I've been to 8 sessions so far, mostly after work. I went to a Sunday morning class once but it was so much harder, and I ended up feeling dizzy and sick. I think this was probably because I woke up dehydrated and didn't have enough time to hydrate properly before the class, whereas when I go after work, I've had the whole day to make sure I drink enough. All the other classes I've attended I've had no problems, although the teachers are really good at saying "make sure you sit down if you feel you need to". 

• Particularly in this weather I'm really enjoying going somewhere warm to work out! And the heat does seem to make some of the poses easier, as your body is already warmed up and (hopefully) more supple! I've still got a long way to go, but I'm happy to take things at my own pace and not feel intimidated by those people there who can wrap their legs round their ears...

• You do sweat a LOT!! There are showers at the studio I go to, but I tend to come out of the class looking like I've had a shower already! And it can be a little distracting having sweat trickling down your forehead while you're trying to concentrate. A good hairband and towel are essential items, and make sure you take a bottle of water to sip throughout the class. And be sure to keep hydrating for the rest of the day too. 

• Be prepared to do more washing, as you have to clean your sweaty gear after every session! Clothes-wise, I wear shorts and a vest top. You want comfortable but not baggy pieces, and I'm not confident enough to rock the sports bra only look yet! I also leave my mat unrolled in my lounge to air out after the class, and have bought some Manduka mat spray to give it a wipe down and stop any bacteria or unpleasant smells!

Once my introductory offer ends, I'm hoping to keep going once a week on a pay-as-you-go basis as I do think that in the short time I've been attending there have been improvements. And any extra stretching and flexibility work can only be a good thing!

Have you ever tried Bikram Yoga?

Beki x

NB: Photos from BYS website.