Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a Bikram Yoga class?
90 minutes, 105 degrees, 40-60% humidity, 26 postures, 2 breathing exercises, mirrors, carpet, a certified Bikram Yoga instructor and you.

Why does it matter if the instructors are certified or not?
All Bikram Yoga instructors go through a tough nine week training course with Bikram Choudhury, the creator of the Bikram Yoga series. Trainees attend two classes a day during the nine weeks and much of their other time is spent learning anatomy, physiology, and yoga philosophy and history. Bikram certifies each trainee himself, and these certified teachers are the only individuals allowed to teach in an authorized Bikram Yoga studio such as Yogagroove.

What are some of the benefits of Bikram Yoga?
Possible benefits may include some of the following: weight loss, increased strength and flexibility, improved stamina and endurance, injury prevention, healing of old injuries, regulation of blood sugar and blood pressure, lowered cholesterol, reduction of asthma symptoms, clear focus, mental determination, overall improvement in health, decreased pain, reduction of arthritis and other inflammatory symptoms, sweating leading to toxin removal, better functioning of all body systems, improved mood, reduced need for medications, learning to stay present in the moment, peace of mind. This is just a very short list! Everyone is different and responds differently to the yoga, so you may benefit in other ways not mentioned.

Why is the room so hot?
We like it hot for so many reasons! Just as a blacksmith needs to heat metal prior to forging, it is best for you to heat your muscles prior to stretching. Heating your muscles protects them from injury and allows for deeper stretching than is possible when your body is not heated up. Additional benefits of heat include cardiovascular efficiency, thinning of the blood, and reorganization of connective tissue and fats within the body. Heat also encourages your body to sweat, one of the greatest benefits of Bikram Yoga.

What’s so good about sweating?
The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and sweating encourages detoxification by opening the pores. It may be hard to believe, but sweating is also a cooling mechanism for your body! As soon as sweat reaches the surface and comes in contact with air, the effect is cooling of the skin. That’s why your teachers encourage you not to wipe the sweat away. It is best to rinse off body lotions, creams, sunscreen and makeup, to allow sweat to reach the skin's surface. It also makes it easier to "get a good, tight grip"!

What should I wear to class?
Less is actually more in the yoga room. You will sweat unlike you’ve ever sweat before. Because sweat is cooling for the body, the more exposed skin you have, the cooler and more comfortable you feel. When looking in the mirror, it is easier to see the muscles you are working when they are not covered up. Your teachers will be able to better see your muscles which will facilitate effective corrections for your body. If you are shy or feel uncomfortable about your body, just keep coming to class! Eventually you will feel strong and confident in your body and how you look and what you wear won’t even matter.

How often should I come to class?
Because yoga is restorative, you can come every day! For newer students, the more you come, the quicker you will appreciate the benefits and your body will start to change at an amazing rate. For those unable to come every day, Bikram suggests a minimum practice of three days a week to reap benefits.

Why are there so many “rules”?
Yoga is a discipline and Bikram Yoga is a very disciplined practice. Instilling discipline from the beginning creates a safe environment with the least amount of distractions so that all students receive maximum benefit from their time spent at the studio. Please arrive on time, leave your shoes in the lobby and leave your cell phone at home or in your car. Follow classroom etiquette so the shared space is comfortable for all students.

What is classroom etiquette?
Bikram Yoga classes typically have many participants. To create a safe and comfortable environment for all students, please adhere to standards of classroom etiquette. Show up on time. Bring only your mat, towel, and covered water bottle in the yoga room with you. Set your mat centered on the line on the carpet with your towel on top. Keep your water very close so that if you need to grab it, you can do so quickly without too much distraction to others or your own practice. Please do not talk in the yoga room. Yogagroove has plenty of comfy space in the lobby for conversations! Please drink only at “Party Time” when the teacher says it’s ok, and in between postures so that you are not a distraction to others doing their yoga. Please rinse off perfumes or scented body sprays.

Should I eat before class?
It is suggested that you do not eat a large meal within two or three hours of your yoga practice. Having a full belly does not make for a comfortable class! If you must have a snack, choose something light and easily digested.

How come I don’t feel so good after class?
No doubt about it, Bikram Yoga is a tough workout! Add in the fact that the practice is done is a very hot environment, and it’s no wonder you may not feel so good sometimes! One of the toughest parts of class to get used to is the heat. For newer students, this could take just a few classes or could take several months of a consistent practice. Bikram Yoga reorganizes every part of your body from the inside out, so it’s also normal to feel nausea, dizziness, or really tired as the reorganization process begins. With time and a consistent practice of three or more times a week, you will begin to feel better and better.

Can I practice Bikram Yoga if I’m pregnant or trying to get pregnant?
As long as you have a consistent practice of Bikram Yoga prior to getting pregnant and your doctor approves of a heated yoga practice during your pregnancy, you can continue to practice your yoga while pregnant. There are a few postures that are different in the series, so please let your instructors know so we can show you the pregnancy series to do during class.

I have pain or a serious injury in my back, knees, neck, shoulders, etc. Can I practice Bikram Yoga?
Please check with your doctor first! This is a very healing and restorative yoga practice, if done correctly. Please be sure to tell each of your teachers if you have any injuries or if you are unable to do the postures as outlined. We will be happy to work with whatever it is you have going on in your body.