Online Bikram Yoga - FAQ
What time should I sign in?
Our teachers start the Zoom meetings 15 minutes before each class for socializing and asking questions. We start class exactly on time. Arriving early will allow time to deal with any tech difficulties and enjoy a stress-free beginning to your class.
I’ve never done yoga before, can I come to any class?
Yes! Bikram Yoga is designed for beginners. Following the guidance of your instructor, simply approach every posture to the best of your ability and you will receive 100% of the benefits. For Zoom classes please let your instructor know if you're just starting, and we will try to "spotlight" experienced students in the Zoom room so you can get a visual on the poses. Check out THIS VIDEO for an introduction to all the poses in the series.
Is there an age limit? Do I need a parent to sign for me if I am under 18?
You must be 18 or have a parent or legal guardian agree to the terms of our online plan in order to practice with us online.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, flexible workout clothing that keeps you warm. Depending how hot you can get your practice space, that could be a sports bra and bike shorts, or leggings and a long sleeve shirt. Avoid baggy or loose-fitting clothing because the instructor will not be able to see your body to help you with your technique.
What should I bring to class?
CLICK HERE to check out our "DIY Hot Room" section of the website, where there are tons of tips for setting up for a home practice. The basics are: a glass or bottle of water and a yoga mat! Set up your device for Zoom classes in a way that the video shows most of your body.
How long is each class?
Each Zoom class is 90 minutes. For best results, plan to stay with us the whole 90 minutes. However if now and then you need to come in late or leave early, it is totally fine! If you don't have 90 minutes, check out our Quickies page of on-demand options from 5-45 minutes, included with your online plan. Some yoga is better than no yoga!
What about the heat?
Your average Bikram Yoga studio is heated to approximately 105 degrees Fahrenheit with 40% humidity. The heat helps keep muscles supple, allowing for safe stretching and increased flexibility, as well as improved blood circulation and a cleansing effect for the skin. At home, you may not be able to achieve these conditions! Just do the best you can. A bit of heat goes a long way! Check out our "DIY" pages for tips on heating up.
What if I’m inflexible or out of shape?
You’ve come to the right place! Bikram Yoga stretches and aligns your body to increase flexibility, strength, balance and coordination. You will feel challenged during class – everyone does! Always do your best, but listen to your body. It is always okay to sit down if you need to. It’s normal, especially as a beginner, to feel dizzy, nauseous or lightheaded. As you acclimate to the practice and the heat these sensations will fade.
Should I eat before class?
It is recommended to practice Bikram yoga on an empty stomach. As a general rule, refrain from eating 2 to 3 hours prior to class. Be sure to hydrate well before and after class by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Doctors estimate you need at least 2 liters per day for normal hydration. Double that if you are practicing in a hot room!
What if I have injuries or illnesses?
You are so in the right place. Please tell your instructor before class if you have had a recent surgery or any medical conditions or illnesses. You will most likely be able to practice, but the instructor must be aware so that he or she can help you stay safe and heal well.
What if I am pregnant?
Congratulations!! Check out more about Pregnancy Yoga here. We recommend waiting until after the first trimester to begin a new yoga practice. Always consult with your medical care provider before beginning any new exercise regimen. If you already have a regular Bikram Yoga practice, you can continue your practice seamlessly with Rajashree's Pregnancy Yoga. Recorded Pregnancy Yoga classes are available on-demand as part of our online subscription.
How often should I practice?
As often as you can. To see maximum benefits from Bikram Yoga, we suggest a regular practice of at least 2 to 3 90-minute classes per week. The more you practice, the quicker you will see the results!
Can I lose weight doing Bikram Yoga?
Weight loss is one of many benefits of Bikram Yoga. With regular practice, your endocrine, lymphatic and digestive systems will begin to work in harmony. Your appetite will normalize and unhealthy cravings will diminish. All of these results will help to maintain a healthy weight if you devote yourself to a regular practice and eat nutritious foods.
What if I feel sick or tired after my first class?
Don't scare! Give yourself several classes, ideally not more than 1-2 days apart, to start adjusting to the heat and the new activity. It is normal to feel a headache or some fatigue after class. Make sure you are well-hydrated before class, and take plenty of breaks during class to avoid over-exertion. Remember, there is no rush to do everything right away!
What about those bendy people on the screen?
Remember that everyone in our community once attended their very first Bikram Yoga class, even the people who have been coming for years. They make it look easy because they persevered, and you can too. This is a beginners' class not because you should be able to do every posture perfectly from the start, but because all the postures are safe for beginners to try, one step at a time. Don't discourage! Right where you are today is right where you need to be.
Our teachers start the Zoom meetings 15 minutes before each class for socializing and asking questions. We start class exactly on time. Arriving early will allow time to deal with any tech difficulties and enjoy a stress-free beginning to your class.
I’ve never done yoga before, can I come to any class?
Yes! Bikram Yoga is designed for beginners. Following the guidance of your instructor, simply approach every posture to the best of your ability and you will receive 100% of the benefits. For Zoom classes please let your instructor know if you're just starting, and we will try to "spotlight" experienced students in the Zoom room so you can get a visual on the poses. Check out THIS VIDEO for an introduction to all the poses in the series.
Is there an age limit? Do I need a parent to sign for me if I am under 18?
You must be 18 or have a parent or legal guardian agree to the terms of our online plan in order to practice with us online.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, flexible workout clothing that keeps you warm. Depending how hot you can get your practice space, that could be a sports bra and bike shorts, or leggings and a long sleeve shirt. Avoid baggy or loose-fitting clothing because the instructor will not be able to see your body to help you with your technique.
What should I bring to class?
CLICK HERE to check out our "DIY Hot Room" section of the website, where there are tons of tips for setting up for a home practice. The basics are: a glass or bottle of water and a yoga mat! Set up your device for Zoom classes in a way that the video shows most of your body.
How long is each class?
Each Zoom class is 90 minutes. For best results, plan to stay with us the whole 90 minutes. However if now and then you need to come in late or leave early, it is totally fine! If you don't have 90 minutes, check out our Quickies page of on-demand options from 5-45 minutes, included with your online plan. Some yoga is better than no yoga!
What about the heat?
Your average Bikram Yoga studio is heated to approximately 105 degrees Fahrenheit with 40% humidity. The heat helps keep muscles supple, allowing for safe stretching and increased flexibility, as well as improved blood circulation and a cleansing effect for the skin. At home, you may not be able to achieve these conditions! Just do the best you can. A bit of heat goes a long way! Check out our "DIY" pages for tips on heating up.
What if I’m inflexible or out of shape?
You’ve come to the right place! Bikram Yoga stretches and aligns your body to increase flexibility, strength, balance and coordination. You will feel challenged during class – everyone does! Always do your best, but listen to your body. It is always okay to sit down if you need to. It’s normal, especially as a beginner, to feel dizzy, nauseous or lightheaded. As you acclimate to the practice and the heat these sensations will fade.
Should I eat before class?
It is recommended to practice Bikram yoga on an empty stomach. As a general rule, refrain from eating 2 to 3 hours prior to class. Be sure to hydrate well before and after class by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Doctors estimate you need at least 2 liters per day for normal hydration. Double that if you are practicing in a hot room!
What if I have injuries or illnesses?
You are so in the right place. Please tell your instructor before class if you have had a recent surgery or any medical conditions or illnesses. You will most likely be able to practice, but the instructor must be aware so that he or she can help you stay safe and heal well.
What if I am pregnant?
Congratulations!! Check out more about Pregnancy Yoga here. We recommend waiting until after the first trimester to begin a new yoga practice. Always consult with your medical care provider before beginning any new exercise regimen. If you already have a regular Bikram Yoga practice, you can continue your practice seamlessly with Rajashree's Pregnancy Yoga. Recorded Pregnancy Yoga classes are available on-demand as part of our online subscription.
How often should I practice?
As often as you can. To see maximum benefits from Bikram Yoga, we suggest a regular practice of at least 2 to 3 90-minute classes per week. The more you practice, the quicker you will see the results!
Can I lose weight doing Bikram Yoga?
Weight loss is one of many benefits of Bikram Yoga. With regular practice, your endocrine, lymphatic and digestive systems will begin to work in harmony. Your appetite will normalize and unhealthy cravings will diminish. All of these results will help to maintain a healthy weight if you devote yourself to a regular practice and eat nutritious foods.
What if I feel sick or tired after my first class?
Don't scare! Give yourself several classes, ideally not more than 1-2 days apart, to start adjusting to the heat and the new activity. It is normal to feel a headache or some fatigue after class. Make sure you are well-hydrated before class, and take plenty of breaks during class to avoid over-exertion. Remember, there is no rush to do everything right away!
What about those bendy people on the screen?
Remember that everyone in our community once attended their very first Bikram Yoga class, even the people who have been coming for years. They make it look easy because they persevered, and you can too. This is a beginners' class not because you should be able to do every posture perfectly from the start, but because all the postures are safe for beginners to try, one step at a time. Don't discourage! Right where you are today is right where you need to be.
