Have you ever been a little chilly while stretching? The century-long spiritual practice of yoga has been recently transformed into a more intense workout – hot yoga. There are still aspects of meditation and introspection in the classes, but the heat-controlled environment ranging from 90 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit combined with 40% to 60% humidity allows for an even more significant increase in strength, flexibility and serenity. The intentional utilization of infrared heat penetrates into the body, increasing circulation in joints and muscles. These conditions quickly loosen the body, allowing for an easier shift from slow stretches to more rapid cycles of postures. The energizing music and communal motions will wake you up on those early Saturday mornings, motivating you to carry this productivity throughout the rest of the day.    

A crucial part of the hot yoga experience is going to a welcoming studio that makes its guests feel comfortable. While it is about a 20-minute drive, SoulFire Collective in Clarendon offers fun and engaging classes. These sessions are a bit pricey, but the cold lavender towels at the end make it worth the money. Another great option is CorePower Yoga in Merrifield. Many teenagers have enjoyed these classes because of the reasonable price and proximity to Vienna. CorePower Yoga also offers a free week trial, where you can try hot yoga with no pressure and charge to see if it interests you. 

“I went to CorePower in Merrifield,” Anusha Malhan (’25) said. “I really enjoyed my class because it was a new way to work out and was affordable. However, I recommend taking off your jewelry before so it doesn’t fall off.”

While I have only been to a few hot yoga classes, and each workout leaves me feeling even more physically drained, I have a few tips that will allow you to get the most out of each session. The first piece of advice falls under the arguably most important category: attire. Wearing breathable clothing makes one comfortable in such an intense atmosphere while enjoying one’s experience. Also, putting on confidence-producing matching sets or outfits will increase motivation and reduce personal stressors in a possibly anxiety-producing space. Generally, it is best to wear pants such as leggings to prevent slipping during growth poses, such as crow, where the feet and legs are lifted off the mat, and the knees rest on the back of the arms. This anti-slip concept relates to bringing a towel to lay on a mat. Many studios provide these microfiber towels, but some require clients to pay for them. This cost adds up, and it may be best to buy your mat towel. My third piece of advice is simple but important. Bring water and eat a good snack before going to class, especially if it is early in the morning. While the other people in the class will probably not hear your stomach grumbling over the loud music, the distraction could detract from your experience and cause light-headed or dizzy feelings. Given the hot climate, our bodies quickly lose fluids during this time. Hydrating with extra electrolytes before, during, and after each session is crucial. Lastly, go with a friend or two. Hot yoga is a great activity to do with friends and meet new people with similar interests – push yourself socially, too. 

While this type of environment seems intimidating, the class is unified during times when people may struggle to reach a pose or lose energy during a more extended set of postures. It is easy to just go through the motions with little concentration, but it is essential to be present and go at your own pace. Once you have pushed yourself mentally and physically for the entirety of a class, you will want to shower immediately but feel accomplished.