I’m not a big exerciser (I actually can’t stand it.) but one thing that I’ve found that I really love is Bikram Yoga. It’s a 90-minute class in a room heated to 105-degrees. Developed by Bikram Choudhury, the practice consists of a series of 26 postures done in sequential order. I love Vinyasa (or flow) yoga too, but the workout I get when doing Bikram yoga is very intense. It’s great for improving strength, balance, and flexibility, and it works every muscle in your body. And even though you are standing or lying down for the entire class (and not running or moving around quickly), it really gets your heart rate up as well. But I do have to say, it’s not for everyone. Many of my friends have tried it and decided they didn’t like the heat. Me, I love it.
The other great thing about Bikram is it’s exactly the same no matter where you take it. So if you travel a lot, you can search for a Bikram studio online and find a class wherever you go. (Click on Class Finder on the main Bikram website.)
I’ve been a little slack in my practice lately, so I’m trying to get back to going 2-3 days a week. Does anyone else do Bikram? If you’re looking for an awesome way to reshape your body, maybe you should try a class. I’d love to hear what you guys think about it. Leave me a comment in Feedback below. Good luck and happy sweating.
Note: As with any new strenuous exercise routine, I’d recommend you check in with your doctor before you start. Once you get the go-ahead, make sure to take your yoga mat, a large beach-sized towel, a hand towel, and a huge bottle of water.
— Hannah
Print | posted on Monday, July 21, 2008 2:52 PM