Hot Yoga vs. Regular Yoga: Key Differences Explained

Yoga is about balance between body, mind and breathing. But finding the best way to achieve that balance? This is where different yoga styles come into play.

Hot yoga is one example that has recently gained attention, as it increases the intensity of a standard yoga session in a heated room to 90 degrees or higher.

What are the benefits of hot yoga versus regular yoga? Is one better than the other? How do you decide which one will give you the best experience? Read on to compare the two practices and find out.

Hot yoga: turn up the heat

Hot yoga is practiced in a warm environment, typically between 90 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, adding a unique “sauna” element to your regular routine.

This increased heat is the main difference between hot yoga and regular yoga. Although this may seem like a small change, higher temperatures offer many benefits and considerations.

Benefits of hot yoga

Overcoming the extreme heat challenges your stamina, both mental and physical. Amidst the extreme temperatures and wet mats, you can also expect benefits such as:

• Potential to burn more calories Preliminary studies indicate that hot yoga significantly enhances fat burning compared to regular yoga.
• Increase flexibility – High heat helps “warm up” your muscles and improve blood flow, enhancing range of motion in major joints.
• Natural detox Excessive sweating is the hallmark of hot yoga, which can help eliminate toxins and heavy metals from the body.

Science aside, many hot yoga enthusiasts simply enjoy the soothing warmth, which makes every session feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

Considerations for hot yoga

As with any exercise, the benefits of hot yoga must be balanced with the risks. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your session:

• Stay well hydrated before, during and after your session
• Listen to your body and take regular breaks as needed
• Consider taking shorter classes if you’re new to hot yoga
• Talk to your teacher about any health conditions or other concerns

In addition, many experienced yogis recommend using anti-slip mats and one or three towels to get rid of excess sweat.

Regular Yoga: The Classic Approach

Again, yoga is about balance, and some may find that a heated room upsets that balance. Regular or room-temperature yoga aims to provide a more measured experience, one that focuses on gentle stretching, precise posture, and mindful breathing.

Note some benefits and considerations when choosing a standard yoga session:

Benefits of regular yoga

In the context of hot yoga versus regular yoga, the lack of heat offers some advantages:

• Focus on technology – Regular yoga may help you explore more techniques and focus on proper alignment without the distraction of a warm room.
• Adaptable and accessible While hot yoga requires a specialized environment, yoga can be practiced regularly anywhere – at home, in the park or in a studio.
• comfortable – Some may find hot yoga to be too sweaty and stuffy. And that’s good! Regular yoga may be preferable if you are sensitive to heat or are new to yoga in general.

Regular yoga offers something for everyone regardless of fitness level, allowing you to focus on fitness without the distraction that extra heat can cause.

Choose the right yoga for you

After comparing the differences between hot yoga and regular yoga, one question remains: which one is right You?

• Hot yoga -If you are looking for a new experience or want to maximize calorie burning and flexibility, hot yoga may be for you. While experienced yogis may enjoy the challenge, it’s best for beginners to take it slowly, taking plenty of breaks and consulting with your teacher about any health concerns.
• Regular yoga – If you prefer the flexibility of exercising anywhere and aren’t interested in the idea of ​​sweating on your mat, regular yoga may be the best option. It’s also ideal if you’re still learning proper alignment and technique, allowing you to focus on accuracy and alertness without the added challenge of heat.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your personal goals, fitness level, and preferences. Think about what you want from a yoga session, and try the yoga style that best matches those expectations.

Whether you’re hot or not, find your yoga flow with Chuze

the better How to know which type of yoga is right for you? Try both. Listen to your body, evaluate your fitness goals, and discover a practice that works for you.

Whether you prefer an intense, sweat-inducing session or a moment of cool clarity, the key is to maintain a regular practice that supports your health and well-being.

It’s all about balance, after all.

Another part of this balance is finding great yoga classes that won’t cost you a lot of money. That’s why, at Chuze Fitness Centers, our certified group trainers are committed to providing personalized instruction at affordable prices.

Curious how it works? Visit a location near you for a free trial, or check out our virtual membership program.

sources:

National Library of Medicine. Acute physiological effects of yoga in the heat on energy expenditure, range of motion, and inflammatory biomarkers. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7241641/

National Library of Medicine. Excretion of nickel, lead, copper and mercury in sweat under two states of sweating. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8998800/

CNET. Benefits of Hot Yoga: Is It Really Worth All That Sweat? https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/benefits-of-hot-yoga/

Reviewed by:

Annie is the Vice President of Fitness at Chuze Fitness and oversees the group fitness and team training departments. She has had over 25 years working in club management, personal training, group exercise and coach training. Annie lives with her husband and son in San Diego, California, and loves hot yoga, snowboarding, and all things wellness.