Bikram Yoga is a style of standardized hot yoga that consists of a fixed sequence of 26 postures (asanas) and two breathing exercises (pranayama), performed in a room heated to approximately 40 °C (104 °F) with 40 % humidity. The sequence was developed and popularized by Bikram Choudhury in the early 1970s.
Historical Background
Bikram Choudhury, an Indian-born yoga teacher, opened the first studio offering this method in Los Angeles in 1971. He named the practice after himself, and it quickly spread to other parts of the United States and internationally through franchised studios.
Structure of a Class
A standard Bikram Yoga class lasts 90 minutes. The instructor leads participants through the same 26 postures in the same order for each session, regardless of the participants' skill level. The heating of the studio is intended to replicate the climate of India and to promote increased flexibility, perspiration, and cardiovascular activity.
Philosophical Foundations
The system is presented as a means to improve physical health, mental focus, and overall well‑being. While it incorporates elements of traditional Hatha yoga, its emphasis is on the physical benefits of heat exposure and the consistency of the fixed sequence.
Trademark and Legal Issues
Bikram Choudhury registered “Bikram Yoga” as a trademark in the United States and other jurisdictions. Beginning in the 2010s, disputes arose over the ownership and use of the trademark, leading to lawsuits and the eventual loss of the trademark in several countries. These legal challenges have resulted in some studios rebranding or adopting alternative names such as “Hot Yoga.”
Criticism and Safety Considerations
Medical and yoga scholars have noted potential risks associated with the high‑temperature environment, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and exacerbation of certain medical conditions. Professional health organizations recommend that participants stay hydrated, listen to their bodies, and consult a medical professional before beginning a heated yoga practice.
Current Status
Despite trademark controversies and safety debates, Bikram Yoga remains a widely practiced form of hot yoga, with numerous studios continuing to offer the traditional 90‑minute, 26‑posture class worldwide. Studies on its specific health outcomes are mixed, and the practice is often discussed alongside other heated yoga styles in contemporary yoga literature.