A word of warning before you step into a Bikram Yoga classroom – be careful. Listen to your body and if you feel even the slightest indication that you are becoming dehydrated or suffering the effects of heat exhaustion, stop immediately. In order to stay safe, practice the following safety precautions:

Acclimate and Modify
Take it slow. Allow yourself to get used to the elevated heat of the room. Even if you’ve taken plenty of hot yoga classes in the past, give your body the time it needs to acclimate to the temperature. This is even more important to first-timers. Avoid any major exertion of energy as you get used to the heat. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, ease into the class and the poses being taught.

Water, Water, and More Water
Two words: Stay Hydrated. Try to drink 16 ounces of water or more roughly an hour or two before you’re ready to step into the classroom. And don’t forget to bring your water bottle into the class with you, drinking as often as you can throughout the duration. When you’re finished, continue your water intake with up to three 16 ounce servings for each hour you participated in the class.

How To Get Started
So you’re ready to try a Bikram Yoga class. Remember, take it slow and find a studio that caters to first-timers. Even if you’ve taken a yoga class before, a Bikram Yoga class is a completely different experience with greater risks. But once you find the studio and the instructor that is right for you, you’ll be ready to sweat it out in no time!