FAQ’s & Common Misconceptions
Nope, never done yoga before. Maybe I should ask about the beginner’s class….?
All of our yoga classes with the exception of Hot Advanced and Hot Music are for beginners. The variety of postures taught in the various classes are accessible to all levels, no prior experience is necessary. However, as your understanding of the postures and stamina increase, so will your desire to accelerate and push to new levels. This is why hot yoga challenges everyone – beginners, intermediates, and experts.
Flexible, are you kidding me? I can’t even touch my toes!!!!
This is the most common misconception that prevents people from coming to a yoga class. Yoga is not about how flexible you are, it is about stretching your body and spine in all directions. If you simply try the right way, your balance, endurance and flexibility will naturally increase. You will be receiving 100% of the benefits.
Ok, so why’s it so hot in here?
The room is heated intentionally to warm muscles, which allows you to work deeper and safer, seeing results faster. Heat takes the trauma out of stretching, heals and helps prevent injuries. It also promotes sweating which helps flush toxins from your body, giving you a wonderful glow from head to toe. The heat rocks!
Water bottle, check. Mat, check, yogi toe, check. What am I forgetting?
You will want to bring a towel for after class, toiletries, fresh clothes and a bag to place your sweaty clothes and towel in. Oh yeah, bring your water, towel and mat! We sell yoga mats, yogi toes, water and some pretty cute clothes in case you ever forget your swag!
This is worse than getting dressed for a first date….
Don’t get nervous about what to wear. Remember, you want to be comfortable and the room will be heated so avoid loose clothing that will move around to much. Tighter fitting yoga clothes that stay in place during class will help eliminate the need to fidget and pull at clothing. It is important to see your knees, hips, and shoulders during class to adjust your alignment. It is also helpful to see your stomach as well. Shorter sports tops and bottoms afford the best views!
Did I hear that right? You want me to practice how many times a week?
Everyday! Well, beginners anyway. Come everyday for two months. These two months will be hard, tiring, emotional, and blissful—simultaneously! But you’ll be glad you did. A 60-day commitment will jump-start your metabolism, detoxify your body, and boost energy levels and mental stamina—just like hitting the reset button on your computer! You’ll be completely changed by the end of the 60 days. After that, settle into a routine of practicing 3-4 times a week. Trust us, you’ll get to a place where all you want to do is the yoga—because you feel so darn good!
I’m hungry, oh-so-hungry….
Big meals right before class aren’t a good idea. There’s nothing worse than practicing on a full stomach. Eat 3-4 hours before class to give time for proper digestion. If you’re taking an early morning class and are famished, try a light snack (like a banana). A steady yoga practice will actually curb your appetite naturally. You might find that you start to feel less hungry and crave healthier foods. Yippee!
Oh, and I’m thirsty, too!
It’s imperative to stay well hydrated when you are practicing hot yoga. Come to class hydrated and rehydrate after class. Drink plenty of water thought the day. Avoid heavy water drinking during class, though. If you start downing water during class you might get queasy. As your practice evolves, you’ll stop bringing water into class at all, as you’ll discover it’s simply a distraction.
I’m pregnant. But I heard yoga is awesome!
If you don’t have an established yoga regimen, you should start after your bundle of joy arrives! If you do, discuss continuing your practice with your doctor.
Did I tell you about the time I broke my ankle?
Most people coming to yoga have experienced some sort of physical trauma over the course of their lifetime. Often times a doctor, physical therapist or friend referred them to yoga. Hot yoga is highly therapeutic and can help in rehabilitation of various injuries as well as prevention of new ones. Practice the right way and take it slow. Tell you teacher about any injuries you are currently working with so they can help during class. And always ask your doctor for guidance on what is appropriate for your individual condition.
There is no way I can do this. No way…
Yes you can do this! Anybody can!! Come with an open mind, try honestly and be positive in your thoughts. The feeling of accomplishment after you finish your first class is indescribable. It is also very addictive! Every single one of us hot yogis has been there. So it is with great confidence that we tell you, yes you can and yes you will!!!!!
Ok Hot Dogs, slow down! This isn’t your ordinary workout.
You know who you are. Mr. Ironman. Miss Professional Dancer. You’ve spent your whole life training, but, don’t worry, you’ll still be challenged in class—we promise. Pace yourself so you don’t run out of steam in the first 20 minutes. Because it’s often the people who are in the best shape—those who come in with something to prove—that end up getting overwhelmed. But relax, its yoga.
Is it normal to feel this way?
Always follow your doctor’s orders and consult with your doctor if you’re on any medications or have any known health issues. Pay attention to your body during class, and if necessary, consult your doctor when your symptoms change.
Dizziness or nausea may occur during your class. If this happens, take care of yourself—meaning sit down, lie down, or rest as long as you need. And don’t try to work through this! Usually it’ll pass in a few minutes. These symptoms often relate to dehydration, and as you progress in your practice they’ll will disappear as your body adapts to the heat and as your fitness improves.
ºPeople have been known to experience euphoria, a sudden burst of energy, weight loss, improved sex lives, increased interpersonal skills, enlightenment … you name it. Just roll with it. See where this yoga thing takes you. You just never know until you try!