What Is the Difference Between Bikram and Hot Yoga?

Bikram Yoga and Hot Yoga are both styles of yoga that are practiced in a heated room, but there are some differences between the two.

Bikram Yoga is a specific style of yoga that was developed by Bikram Choudhury. It consists of a series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises that are performed in a room heated to 105°F with 40% humidity. The class is 90 minutes long and follows the same sequence of postures every time. The heat is intended to help warm up the muscles and increase flexibility, as well as promote sweating to help detoxify the body.

Hot Yoga, on the other hand, is a more general term that refers to any type of yoga that is practiced in a heated room. Hot Yoga classes can vary widely in terms of style, sequence, and temperature. Some Hot Yoga classes may be similar to Bikram Yoga in that they are structured and follow a specific sequence, while others may be more free-flowing and incorporate a variety of different postures.

In terms of temperature, Hot Yoga classes can range from around 80°F to over 100°F. The amount of humidity in the room can also vary, with some classes being more humid than others. The heat in Hot Yoga classes is also intended to help warm up the muscles and increase flexibility, as well as promote sweating to help detoxify the body.

While both Bikram Yoga and Hot Yoga can be challenging and beneficial for the body, Bikram Yoga is more structured and follows a specific sequence of postures, while Hot Yoga can vary widely in terms of style and sequence. Additionally, the temperature and humidity in Hot Yoga classes can vary, while Bikram Yoga is always practiced in a room heated to 105°F with 40% humidity. Ultimately, the best way to determine which type of yoga is right for you is to try out different classes and see which one you enjoy and benefit from the most.