Hot Yoga: The Bikram Trend

Inspired by Madonna’s zeal for Olympic body-challenging yoga positions, more and more "regular" people are bending over backwards to practice Hot Yoga.

But why, exactly, is Hot Yoga so hot?

It’s not just its celebrity appeal – it’s the heat.

Bikram yoga stands out because its founder, Bikram Choudhury realized in order to bend like a superstar, you need to be hot!

Hot Yoga is supposed to be practiced in a 105-degree room with 50 percent humidity, minimum.

Why? Because in a really heated room muscles will relax and achieve postures that defy gravity. Additionally, as you sweat, your body eliminates toxins. It's so sweaty and humid that some groups practice in the nude.

The entire exercise begins in a meditation position, with focus on two breathing techniques. Once you get that mastered, the boundaries are up to you! The most famous asana in Hot Yoga, is Padangustasana and it is truly unique. Known as the Toe Stand, which demands exxtreme balance, it also creates it. It strengthens the stomach muscles, hips, knees, ankles, and toes. It's great for relief of arthritic pain.

In all, there are 26 poses, or “asanas,” and with all that heat and moisture in the room, the risk of ache or injury is actually minimized.