Yoga has undergone significant changes in recent years. With advancement in technology, people are shying away from traditional yoga towards fancy studios with modern equipment. One of the most popular versions of yoga is hot yoga- a blend of traditional yoga asana with added heat in a humid chamber. In hot yoga, you perform a series of postures in a hot, humid environment to sweat out toxins and promote flexibility. Regular yoga, on the other hand, is practiced at room temperature without added humidity or heat. Both forms have their own benefits, but which one is better for your health?
1. Health Benefits of Hot Yoga
Hot yoga has many advantages for your physical and mental well-being. The significant benefit is weight loss. Since you work out in a heated room, it’s easier to sweat out those unwanted toxins while burning more calories. The increased heat also helps in promoting flexibility, as your muscles become more pliable. This results in a reduced risk of injury and faster recovery of sore muscles. The heat of hot yoga also makes it an excellent cardio workout that helps to improve blood circulation and lowers blood pressure.
2. Health Benefits of Regular Yoga
Regular yoga has been around for centuries, with proven health benefits. Practicing yoga regularly helps to strengthen muscles while improving flexibility, balance, and posture. It also regulates the nervous system, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. Regular yoga practice can help relieve stress & anxiety, improve breathing, and reduce back pain. It is also an effective way to improve sleep patterns and increase energy levels.
3. Risks of Hot Yoga: Is It Safe?
While hot yoga is popular, it’s not suitable for everyone. If you feel that Hot Yoga is something you want to try but you are not quite sure if you would be able to stand the heat, we recommend trying our class Warm* Gentle Flow at OM Yoga first because our Hot* Power Yoga and Hot* Core Fusion has added heat which can elevate the heart rate, putting a strain on the cardiovascular system. While there might be a lot of benefits for this, the intense heat can also lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, for some people with medical conditions or who are pregnant. Hot yoga classes are not recommended for first-time yogis, and participants should stay hydrated throughout the session.
4. Why Regular Yoga is a Better Option Overall
Overall, the benefits of regular yoga outweigh those of hot yoga. Regular yoga teaches fundamental postures and breathing techniques that can strengthen the body’s muscles and improve flexibility without the added stress of heat. It’s also safe for those who are pregnant or have medical conditions. Regular yoga can be done anywhere, at any time, without any specialized equipment, making it cost-effective. It can be customized to an individual’s skill level and goals.
Try Our HOT* Power Yoga and Yummy Flow to experience both!
Both hot yoga and regular yoga have their benefits, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, it is essential to listen to your body and avoid taking unnecessary risks. While hot yoga may provide an extra challenge, it is not suitable for everyone, especially those who are pregnant or have medical conditions. Regular yoga is a safer, cost-effective option with proven benefits that can be practiced by anyone, anywhere, anytime. Choose the type of yoga that makes you feel good, balanced, and healthy.