Crank up the heat to 90 degrees, breathe, and go into downward dog.
People all over the world are participating in not just yoga, but hot yoga. Recently a new question has come to the surface about the practice of hot yoga with two opposing viewpoints. The divide lies between one side stating the major health risks, and the other side confirming its health benefits.
According to consumer reports, hot yoga has various risks attached onto it that many are seemingly unaware of. They state that problems can lead to heat stroke, joint and muscle damage, and that one must always drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Janet Hinson, wellness practice concepts professor at the University of Memphis and yoga lover, opens up about the practice of hot yoga.
“My perspective as a health educator is that yoga is a form of movement and it has countless benefits,” Hinson said. “It encompasses mind, body, and experience. That being said, any exercise above 75 degrees, according to American College of Sports Medicine, is where we see heat related injuries.”
Hot yoga can lead to dehydration, which could further onto heat exhaustion and heat stroke. When going into hot yoga, one must start drinking water at the start of the day in preparation for the practice. Like with doing any form of physical exercise there are risks that one must keep in mind.
“We here in this culture, do not live in that (hot yoga) temperature,” Hinson said. “Putting ourselves to these artificial conditions is not authentic.”
Not only are people participating in hot yoga, but also they are starting a new craze of various hot workouts. Hot classes are now being conducted in indoor cycling and Pilates.
“In exercise, people always want to see how far their edge is,” Hinson said. “I do not feel it is safe. The potential risks outweigh the benefits. Be mindful of the risks and hydrate yourself. People should enjoy exercise and know the risks involved with any activity.”
The American College of Sports Medicine states the keys to a safe yoga session, adding that warming up for the practice should include low to moderate intensity movements in order to increase your heart rate and blood flow.
While hot yoga can cause dehydration and heat stroke, it can also give you a good and sweaty workout. Elizabeth Heeren, certified to teach at Hot Yoga Plus and yoga instructor at the University of Memphis, states the benefits that come with the hot yoga practice.
“If you want a hard workout, hot yoga is good for that,” Heeren said. “You also get super limber in the room and are more flexible.”
Heeren has been doing yoga since 2007, and loves it. She’s well aware of the health risks that are attached onto it, stating that hydration is the key.
“If you are not hydrated, any sport can be harmful,” Heeren said. “It’s a choice to go to hot yoga. It’s hard but you get in a good workout.”
While you are releasing the toxins in the skin, you also burning calories and losing water. It is best to keep in mind the risks and benefits of the practice before going into it.
