Bikram Yoga, founded by Bikram Choudhury, is a style of hot yoga that follows a specific sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises in a room heated to 105°F (40.6°C). The standardized sequence is designed to work every part of the body, providing a comprehensive and intense practice.

Fixed Sequence: Bikram Yoga adheres to a fixed sequence of postures, each performed twice during a 90-minute class. The consistent sequence is intended to promote physical and mental benefits through repetition and familiarity.

Hot Environment: The heated room in Bikram Yoga serves multiple purposes, including increased flexibility, enhanced detoxification through sweating, and the prevention of injuries by warming up the muscles.

Focus on Alignment: Precision in alignment is emphasized to ensure practitioners achieve the maximum benefit from each posture. The teacher provides verbal cues and corrections throughout the class.

Detoxification: The combination of heat and intense physical activity promotes sweating, aiding in the elimination of toxins from the body.

Improved Flexibility: The warmth of the room allows for increased flexibility, making it easier for practitioners to move deeper into the postures.

Enhanced Strength and Endurance: The challenging nature of the practice, coupled with the heat, contributes to improved strength, endurance, and cardiovascular health.

Bikram Yoga classes worldwide follow the same sequence, allowing practitioners to experience a consistent practice regardless of the location. The repetition of the sequence is intended to encourage mastery of the postures over time.

The challenging nature of Bikram Yoga, combined with the heat, requires practitioners to maintain mental focus and concentration throughout the class. This mental discipline is considered an integral part of the practice.

Bikram Choudhury and Bikram Yoga have faced controversies and legal issues, including allegations of sexual harassment. As a result, some studios and practitioners have distanced themselves from the founder while maintaining the practice itself.

Despite its challenging nature, Bikram Yoga is adaptable for individuals of various fitness levels. Beginners can start at their own pace, gradually increasing their intensity and depth in each posture.

Bikram Yoga often fosters a sense of community among practitioners who share the challenge and intensity of the practice. Studios typically offer a supportive environment for individuals to explore their physical and mental limits.

Bikram Yoga is characterized by its specific sequence, hot environment, and focus on precision and consistency. While controversy surrounds its founder, the practice itself continues to attract individuals seeking a rigorous, detoxifying, and mentally challenging yoga experience.