Hot yoga, also known as Bikram yoga, is a form of yoga that is performed in a heated room with a temperature of around 105°F (40.5°C) and a humidity of 40%. This type of yoga was developed by Bikram Choudhury in the 1970s and has gained popularity in recent years due to its many benefits, including weight loss. In this article, we will explore how hot yoga can help you lose weight and the science behind it.
What is Hot Yoga?
Hot yoga is a type of yoga that is performed in a heated room with a temperature of around 105°F (40.5°C) and a humidity of 40%. The heat and humidity are intended to create a challenging and detoxifying environment that can help you achieve a deeper level of stretching, flexibility, and focus. Hot yoga is typically performed in a series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises, which are designed to work every part of the body, from head to toe.
How does Hot Yoga Help you Lose Weight?
Hot yoga can help you lose weight in several ways. Here are some of the ways hot yoga can help you lose weight:
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Increased Caloric Burn
Hot yoga can help you burn more calories than regular yoga due to the increased intensity of the practice. The heat and humidity of the room can also cause you to sweat more, which can help you burn additional calories. According to a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, participants who practiced hot yoga burned an average of 460 calories in a 90-minute class.
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Boosts Metabolism
Hot yoga can help boost your metabolism, which can help you burn more calories throughout the day. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, regular exercise can increase the number of mitochondria in your cells, which are responsible for producing energy. The more mitochondria you have, the higher your metabolism will be, and the more calories you will burn.
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Reduces Stress
Hot yoga can help reduce stress, which can help you lose weight. Stress can cause your body to produce cortisol, a hormone that can lead to weight gain, especially in the abdominal area. According to a study published in the International Journal of Yoga, hot yoga can help reduce cortisol levels and improve overall mood.
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Promotes Better Sleep
Hot yoga can promote better sleep, which can help you lose weight. According to a study published in the Journal of Sleep Research, regular exercise can help improve sleep quality and duration. Better sleep can help reduce cravings for high-calorie foods and help you feel more energized, which can lead to better food choices.
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Improves Digestion
Hot yoga can improve digestion, which can help you lose weight. According to a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, hot yoga can help improve digestive function and reduce symptoms of digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
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Builds Muscle
Hot yoga can help build muscle, which can help you lose weight. Muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue, even at rest. According to a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, participants who practiced hot yoga for 12 weeks had increased muscle strength and endurance.
Hot yoga is a challenging and detoxifying form of yoga that can help you lose weight. By increasing caloric burn, boosting metabolism, reducing stress, promoting better sleep, improving digestion, and building muscle, hot yoga can be an effective tool for weight loss. However, it’s important to remember that weight loss is a complex process that requires a combination of diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes. Hot yoga can be a valuable addition to your weight loss journey, but it should be used in conjunction with other healthy
