There's nothing like a hot yoga class.
If you've been, you know what we're talking about. It seems a little intimidating but it's the perfect choice for beginners and experts alike. We paneled our experts on your behalf and asked our guests on Facebook. Here are some must-knows for the sweaty and rejuvenating experience ahead. (Many yogis had similar suggestions so we know they're good. We expect you may have a few tips of your own to add.)
your gear
"Wear tighter fitting, breathable clothing. Baggy clothes will get heavy and uncomfortable. Guys , go shirtless." – Matt, Joe, Colin and Niamh
"Wear a headband. If you don’t need to worry about brushing the hair out of your eyes, you can focus more on your poses." - Carolyn
"Take your mat, a towel, and water. You’re going to sweat it out, so replenishing your fluids is important. If you’re a heavy sweater, bring two towels – one for your mat and one for you. Sound like a lot of baggage? Most studios provide mats and water for a small fee." – Sarah-Kate
before class
"Hydrate well in advance. I find that I feel the best when I've had plenty of water the day before I hit the studio. - Andrea
"Rinse your hair and face. No one wants goopy hair product (or make-up) running down their face. - Joe
"Eat a snack an hour before class and keep yourself hydrated. A piece of fruit can help keep your energy up during class without weighing you down and drinking plenty of water beforehand can prevent that gurgly feeling in your stomach during the class." – Carolyn, Joe, and Lina
"Take a buddy. You’ll be more motivated to go and have more fun during class if you have a friend there to support you." - Margaret
during class
"Position yourself near the door. It tends to be a little cooler." - Joe
"Breathe deeply. Deeper breathing equals stronger poses." - Matt
"Try not to fidget. It's easy to get distracted but your class will be way more rewarding if you focus on your breathing and not that sweat bead tickling its way down your neck." - Margaret and Elissa
"Listen to your body– it will tell you what it needs. It's normal to feel a little dizzy. Anytime you start to get the spins (or feel a wave of nausea), lie down on your mat." – Jenna and Lina
"Go easy. A hot class is similar to a marathon - it's a big endeavour and you'll want to pace yourself." - Sarah-Kate
after class
"Give yourself time after class to enjoy your much-deserved shower. Nothing is better after a hot class than a lukewarm shower with Dr. Bronner's peppermint soap. It's the ultimate in refreshment." - Elissa
"Refuel. Everyone has their post-class ritual. Mine is coconut water. It replenishes fluids and electrolytes." - Alana
Thank you Pat for the great outtakes from the shoot!
tips from our guests
Sibina recommends taking small sips of water instead of big gulps. She adds Emergen-C to her water to get her vitamins and electrolytes without the added sugar.
Alexandra reminds everyone that classes are often taught at mixed levels so it’s important to not expect yourself to do advanced postures right off the bat. “It took me a while of feeling less capable until I had this realization. Love it!”
Kristina’s words really resonated. “Keep your focus inward and remember yoga is about personal growth and not trying to do the pose the same way your neighbor can. You may never touch your toes but you may get closer and know that is enough.”
Jen recommends getting in the room at least five minutes early to get used to breathing in the heat and humidity.
Rachel says to leave your ego at the door. “Be compassionate with yourself and don’t try to be a hero.”
And finally, our favourite tip from Gus.
“Definitely put a towel under your back. I made the mistake of not having a towel in my sweaty hot yoga class and the suction of my lower back and the mat created a super loud and natural sounding fart noise. I'm known as the farter now in class I'm sure. ha ha.”
want more?
- Learn more about yoga in general on our Yoga 101 page.
- Check out our latest hot yoga offerings for women. We've got all
- Join the coconut water discussion. The blog's got people talking.
- Get all our guests' tips from our Facebook post.
If you're sitting on the fence, just go to a class! (Do one thing each day that scares you, right?) You'll leave feeling challenged and energized. Who doesn't need that?
