12 Things to Avoid While Practicing Hot Yoga

2. Skipping hydration

As you learn about hot yoga, you’ll learn that its environment is designed to raise body temperature and promote sweating. Now, you might be thinking, “Isn’t sweating the point of hot yoga?”.  Sweating helps to detoxify the body and increase flexibility. However, with that amount of sweat, you are also losing essential fluids and electrolytes.

Simply put, dehydration is when your body loses more fluids than you’re taking in. I cannot emphasize enough how dangerous this can be during a hot yoga session. You see, the body is about 60% water, and even a small reduction in that percentage can have noticeable effects.

first, as you become dehydrated, your blood volume said. When this happens, the heart has to work harder to pump oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. I’ve seen instances where dehydration led to fatigue, dizziness, and even fainting in the middle of a session.

Next, consider the impact on your muscles. Water acts as a lubricant for muscles and joints. When you’re dehydrated, you’re more susceptible to muscle cramps and strains. I bet you didn’t sign up for hot yoga to end up with an injury, did you?

The brain doesn’t escape the effects either. It’s highly sensitive to changes in water and electrolyte levels. Dehydration can lead to headaches, difficulty concentrating, and impaired judgment. Imagine trying to maintain a challenging pose when your brain isn’t functioning at its best!

Let’s also not forget about the skin. As the largest organ, the skin benefits immensely from hydration. In a hot yoga environment, if you’re dehydrated, you’ll likely experience dry skin, making it less resilient and more prone to irritation.

Finally,  I’d like to highlight the thermoregulatory aspect. In simple terms, water aids in cooling the body. When you’re already in a heated room, with an elevated internal temperature, lacking the necessary water to cool down can be risky.

So, what should you do? Here’s a quick guideline:

1. Hydrate well before you enter the session. Give your body a head start.
2. Listen to your body. If you’re thirsty, it’s a clear sign that you need to drink up.
3. After your session, replenish the lost fluids. Water is good, but sometimes an electrolyte solution can be even better.

Remember, while the heat and sweat are integral to hot yoga, ensuring you’re well-hydrated will make the experience safer and more enjoyable.  In the world of hot yoga, water truly is your best friend. So, the next time you roll out that yoga mat in a heated room, make sure you’ve got a water bottle in tow. Your body will thank you.

3. Overeating or eating immediately before class

Imagine this: You’ve just had a hearty meal and now you’re walking into a room that’s noticeably warmer than room temperature, ready to twist, bend, and stretch your body in various yoga poses!  If you think that sounds uncomfortable, you’re absolutely right.

When I talk about hot yoga, I often mention the importance of preparation, and diet plays a critical role in this. Now, let’s break down why overeating or eating just before a hot yoga session isn’t the best idea.

First and foremost, when you eat, especially a large meal, your body diverts blood to the digestive tract to help break down food. This means there’s less oxygen-rich blood available for your muscles. Now, add the challenges of hot yoga, and you can see why I’d advise against it. You want your body to be ready, with blood flow efficiently directed to muscles, facilitating smoother and safer movements.

The process of digestion also produces heat. Think about it:  You’re already stepping into a heated room. Add the internal heat from digestion, and you risk overheating. Overheating can lead to a host of problems, from dizziness to nausea.

Speaking of nausea, bending and twisting on a full stomach? That’s a recipe for discomfort. It’s not just about the risk of throwing up, though that’s certainly a concern. It’s also about bloating, cramping and general stomach distress. If you’ve ever tried to do a forward bend after a big meal, you know what I’m talking about.

In addition, digestion is an energy-intensive process. By overeating or eating right before class, you’re essentially setting yourself up for an energy tug-of-war. Instead of focusing solely on the demanding poses and maintaining balance, your body is also trying to digest food. You’ll likely feel sluggish and less focused, making it harder to reap the full benefits of the practice.

So, what’s my advice to you? Ideally, have a light meal about 2-3 hours before your hot yoga session. Think easily digestible foods like fruits, yogurt, or a handful of nuts. This way, by the time you roll out your mat, the food is well on its way to being digested, and you’re energized and ready to tackle the session.

Remember,  hot yoga requires mental focus as well as physical endurance. If you make sure you don’t struggle with the consequences of your meals, you’re setting yourself up for success both on and off the mat. So next time, eat smart and let your body get the most out of your workout without any digestive distractions.

4. Wearing inappropriate clothing

Hot yoga is a unique experience, and when I say “unique,” I’m emphasizing the intense combination of heat and movement. Given this, the clothing you choose plays a vital role in how comfortable and effective your session will be.

Imagine wrapping yourself in a thick, non-breathable fabric and then trying to perform strenuous poses in a heated room. Not only will you feel constricted, but the sweat won’t evaporate efficiently. And trust me, you’ll sweat more than you might expect. If you’re donning clothing that traps moisture, it becomes heavy, clammy and uncomfortable.

Some people believe that baggy clothing might be the way to go, given the heat. However, from my experience, you’ll want clothing that comfortably hugs your body without being too tight.  Loose clothing can get in the way of certain poses, and you might even find yourself tripping over an oversized shirt or pant leg. I’ve seen it happen more times than you’d think!

On the other hand, clothing that’s too tight can restrict movement, making it challenging to get into and maintain certain poses. You want that perfect middle ground: form-fitting but not restrictive.

Next, material matters. You’d want to opt for moisture-wicking fabrics. These are specially designed to draw sweat away from the body, allowing it to evaporate quickly. Not only does this keep you relatively dry, but it also aids in body temperature regulation. Materials like cotton, while soft and comfortable, tend to retain moisture, which can become problematic in a hot yoga setting.

Another aspect to consider, and I cannot stress this enough, is safety. Slippery, sweat-soaked clothing can be a hazard, especially when trying to hold certain poses or when transitioning between them. If your clothes are drenched and slippery, it can make it harder to grip your limbs in poses where it’s required.

To remedy this, I recommend investing in some good quality yoga wear made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials. Prioritize comfort and fit.  You want to walk into that hot room feeling confident, not just about your workout but about what you’re wearing. Remember, the goal is to enhance your experience, not detract from it. With the right clothing, you’ll be better equipped to face the heat and challenge, ensuring you get the most out of every workout.

You can also refer to: How to Choose the Right Yoga Clothing

5. Not bringing a towel

The first time you walk into a hot yoga session, you feel the warmth enveloping you as you step into the practice room. Within minutes, as you begin to do the poses, you’ll feel a familiar sensation: sweating. And it’s not just a little sweat; we’re talking about its seeds that form on your forehead, back, limbs – basically everywhere. This is where the trusty towel comes into play.

In my experience, and I can’t stress this enough, forgetting to bring a towel to a hot yoga class can dramatically affect your workout. Here’s why:

1. Slip and slide: As you start sweating, your mat can quickly become a slippery surface. This is especially problematic in poses that require stability and balance. A small slip can lead to strains, sprains, or worse. A towel, particularly one designed for yoga, can provide a grip-enhancing layer between you and the mat, ensuring stability and safety throughout your practice.
2. Distraction:  Believe me when I say, constantly wiping away sweat with your hands or arms is not only ineffective but also incredibly distracting. It breaks your concentration, interrupts the flow of your practice, and can even become a nuisance to you and those around you. Having a towel allows you to quickly dab away sweat, ensuring that it doesn’t become a barrier to your mindfulness and focus.
3. Hygiene: Hot yoga studios are warm and humid environments, making them a potential breeding ground for bacteria. While studios typically maintain high standards of cleanliness, it’s still a shared space. Using a towel acts as a barrier, minimizing direct skin contact with the mat and reducing the risk of skin irritations or infections.
4. Comfort: There’s something about the sensation of sweat dripping down your face or pooling around your hands and feet that can be discomforting. With a towel at your disposal, you can manage this moisture, ensuring that you remain comfortable and can fully immerse yourself in the practice.

So, you should remember to check your tool bag to see if you already have a towel. Whether it’s a dedicated yoga towel or just a regular towel, carrying it with you can be a game changer.  It’s one of those small preparations that can have a significant impact on the quality of your training. It’s not just comfort; It’s about safety, hygiene, and getting the most out of your hot yoga experience. Trust me, you will thank yourself for it!

6. Overexertion

In a typical exercise environment, pushing yourself might result in some muscle soreness or fatigue. But in hot yoga, overexertion can have more immediate and serious consequences. Let me break down why.

Firstly, the elevated temperatures in hot yoga can already stress your cardiovascular system. Your heart works harder to pump blood to the skin’s surface to dissipate heat.  If you push yourself too hard, adding more strain to an already taxed heart, you risk overloading the system. This can manifest as dizziness, shortness of breath, or even fainting.

Next, let’s talk about dehydration. Sweating is the body’s natural mechanism for cooling down. However, in a hot yoga class, you’re losing fluids and essential electrolytes at an accelerated rate. Overexertion exacerbates this fluid loss. If you push too hard without adequately hydrating, you risk severe dehydration, which in turn can lead to muscle cramps, fatigue and even heatstroke.

Then there’s the topic of injuries. I’ve always believed that yoga, in any form, requires a keen sense of self-awareness. You need to know your limits. In the warm environment of a hot yoga class, your muscles and ligaments become more pliable. This might make you feel more flexible than you truly are, leading you to overstretch or strain yourself. Overexertion, in this sense, can result in sprains, strains, or even more serious injuries.

Now, it’s not all doom and gloom. I share this not to scare you, but to prepare you. The benefits of hot yoga are myriad, from improved flexibility to detoxification. But like any exercise, there’s a balance to be struck.

Therefore, listen to your body. Realize the difference between a healthy challenge and pushing yourself to the edge. If you feel a pose is too stressful,  you can modify it or take a little rest. After all, yoga is about unity and harmony, including the relationship between your body and mind. By avoiding overexertion, you will ensure that your hot yoga experience remains a positive and beneficial one.

7. Neglecting proper breathing

Breathing, or “pranayama” as it’s known in the yogic lexicon, is central to any yoga practice, not just hot yoga. Yet, in the challenging environment of a hot yoga studio, the importance of proper breathing becomes even more pronounced.

From my observations, here’s why neglecting proper breathing can drastically affect your hot yoga experience:

1. Oxygen delivery: Each breath you take is an opportunity to send a fresh supply of oxygen-rich blood to your muscles. When you’re stretching, twisting, and holding poses, your muscles demand more oxygen to function effectively. If you’re taking shallow breaths or holding your breath, you’re essentially starving your muscles of this vital resource. Over time, this can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and even muscle cramps.
2. Temperature regulation: Let’s not forget you’re in a heated room! Proper breathing aids in regulating body temperature. Exhaling helps release excess heat, ensuring you don’t overheat during the session. If you neglect your breathing, you risk raising your internal body temperature to uncomfortable and potentially harmful levels.
3. Focus and calmness: I’ve always believed that breathing is the bridge between the mind and body in yoga. Deep, rhythmic breathing centers your mind, enhancing focus and concentration. When poses get tough, and the heat gets intense, it’s your breath that can anchor you, providing a sense of calm amidst the challenge.
4. Detoxification: One of the benefits of hot yoga is its detoxifying effect. Through sweating and, yes, breathing, you help your body expel toxins.  Each exhale is an opportunity to rid your body of carbon dioxide, a waste product of metabolism. Neglecting proper breathing means you’re not maximizing this detoxification process.
5. Enhanced stretch: Ever noticed how a deep exhale can deepen a stretch? That’s no coincidence. Breathing into a pose can facilitate a deeper release, allowing you to get the most out of each movement.

Never underestimate the power of your breath, especially in hot yoga. Start each session with a few minutes of focused breathing to set the tone. Whenever you find yourself struggling, return to your breath. Let it guide you, sustain you, and empower you.

Remember, hot yoga isn’t just about flexibility of the body, but also the adaptability of the mind. And central to this adaptability is the rhythm of your breath. So, breathe deeply, breathe consciously, and let every inhale energize you and every exhale ground you.

8. Ignoring physical discomfort or warning signs

At its heart, yoga is about connection: connection to the body, to the mind, and to the present moment. Hot yoga amplifies this by introducing an element of intense heat and humidity. This elevated environment amplifies the demands on the body, making it all the more crucial to remain attuned to how you’re feeling.

Here’s why I firmly believe that ignoring physical discomfort or warning signs during hot yoga is a path you don’t want to tread.

1. The body’s language: I’ve always said that our bodies are incredibly intuitive; they speak to us, constantly sending signals about what’s right and what’s potentially harmful. Ignoring discomfort or warning signs is essentially turning a deaf ear to this internal dialogue. Doing so can escalate minor discomfort into a full-blown injury.
2. Risk of injury: Hot yoga makes the muscles and ligaments more pliable, which can lead you to feel more flexible than usual. While this is one of the benefits, it’s also a potential pitfall. If you push past discomfort, you might overstretch or strain a muscle. Remember, just because you can push deeper into a pose doesn’t always mean you should.
3. Heat-related illnesses: The heated environment of a hot yoga class accelerates the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke. If you feel dizziness, nausea, a headache, or extreme fatigue, these could be your body’s way of waving a red flag. Ignoring these signs could have serious health implications.
4. Long-term setbacks:  Let’s say you push past a warning sign today. You might get away with it once, maybe even a few times. But over time, consistently ignoring these signs could lead to chronic issues or injuries. This isn’t just about the immediate session; it’s about your long-term health and wellness journey.
5. Mental well-being: One of the pillars of yoga is self-awareness. By disregarding physical discomfort, you’re also sidestepping an opportunity for mindfulness and introspection. Over time, this can detract from the mental and emotional benefits of your practice.

There’s a cultural narrative that champions pushing through pain, equating it with strength or dedication. But in the context of hot yoga, and I’d argue in most fitness disciplines, this narrative can be counterproductive, even dangerous.

Therefore,  I advise you to listen to your body. Cultivate a practice rooted in self-awareness and respect for your body’s limits. You can challenge yourself but it’s equally important to recognize when to back off.

Remember, yoga is a marathon, not a sprint. The goal isn’t to achieve a picture-perfect pose today but to cultivate a sustainable, nourishing practice that serves you for years to come. By honoring your body’s signals, you’re not only protecting yourself but also deepening the authenticity and richness of your yoga journey.

9. Not electrolytes added

Hot yoga isn’t just a workout; it’s an intense experience that challenges both your body and mind. One of the inevitable side effects of practicing in a heated environment is profuse sweating. But, sweat isn’t just water leaving your body; it’s also a cocktail of essential minerals, most notably electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Here’s why I always stress the importance of replenishing these electrolytes.

1. Maintaining fluid balance: Electrolytes play a vital role in maintaining the balance of fluids in and out of cells, tissues, and organs. When you sweat profusely, and you don’t replace those lost electrolytes, you risk throwing off that balance, which can have a slew of repercussions.
2. Muscle function: Ever experienced a muscle cramp during or after an intense workout? That sudden, sharp pain is often linked to an electrolyte imbalance. Muscles need the right balance of these minerals to contract and relax properly. Not having electrolytes added to your hydration plan can set you up for those painful cramps or even muscle weakness.
3. Nerve function: Just as muscles need electrolytes to function correctly, so do nerves. Electrolytes transmit electrical signals in the body. An imbalance can affect these signals, leading to symptoms like tingling, numbness and even tremors.
4. Acid-base balance: Our bodies have a delicate pH balance, which electrolytes help maintain. This balance supports vital processes, including energy production and oxygen delivery to cells. Ignoring your electrolyte levels can hinder these essential functions.

Now, I get it.  You might think that drinking lots of water before and after a session would be enough. But here’s the kicker: overhydration without adequate electrolyte replacement can dilute your blood, leading to a condition called hyponatremia. Symptoms can range from nausea and headaches to seizures and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening.

So, my straightforward advice to you is don’t just focus on hydrating with plain water. Incorporate drinks or foods that help replenish lost electrolytes. Whether it’s sports drinks, electrolyte tablets, or natural sources like bananas and coconut water, make them a part of your post-workout routine.

10. Not cleaning equipment and neglecting hygiene

Hygiene and cleanliness aren’t just about courtesy or aesthetics. In the steamy confines of a hot yoga studio, they become integral to your health, well-being and the overall experience.

1. Bacterial playground: I’ll be straightforward with you. The heat and humidity of a hot yoga studio create an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive. If you’re not diligent about cleaning your equipment, such as mats and blocks, you’re giving these microorganisms a free pass to proliferate. Over time, this can lead to infections, skin irritations or fungal conditions.
2. Odors and distractions: Let’s face it. A yoga studio that doesn’t prioritize hygiene can quickly become unpleasant. Odors can be distracting, taking away from the meditative and focused atmosphere that’s vital to your practice. Every time I step onto my mat, I want it to feel like a sanctuary, and I bet you do too. Unclean equipment and surroundings disrupt that sanctuary.
3. Allergens and respiratory concerns: Unclean yoga equipment and spaces can accumulate dust and allergens, which, when combined with the room’s humidity, can irritate the respiratory system. If you’ve ever tried to maintain a deep, rhythmic breath amidst a sneezing fit, you’ll know it’s not ideal!
4. Skin health: You’re often in close contact with your yoga mat. If it’s not clean, residues of sweat, dirt, and bacteria can clog your pores, leading to breakouts or rashes. Proper skin hygiene isn’t just about glowing post-yoga; it’s about avoiding unnecessary skin problems.
5. Community responsibility: Hot yoga, like all communal activities, comes with a shared responsibility. By ensuring cleanliness and hygiene, you’re not only protecting yourself but also your fellow yogis. It’s a matter of mutual respect and collective well-being.

Make cleanliness a ritual. After each session, take a few moments to wipe down your equipment with appropriate cleaning agents.  It’s a simple act, but it carries weight. Not only does it maintain the sanctity of your practice space, but it also safeguards your health and that of others.

Lastly, personal hygiene matters too. A quick shower before class, using antimicrobial sprays or wipes, and ensuring you’re using clean workout clothes can make a world of difference.

You know that! The beauty of hot yoga goes beyond the poses and the heat; it’s about cultivating an environment of purity, both within and around you. And trust me, when you step into a clean, fresh-smelling studio, your practice will feel all the more invigorating and sacred.

11. Neglecting rest days

I’ve seen it time and again: the initial exhilaration of hot yoga, that intoxicating blend of sweat, stretch, and serenity, can often make one want to dive in headfirst, practicing day after day.  But here’s the golden nugget of wisdom I’ve come to appreciate: sometimes, doing less is doing more. Here’s why neglecting rest days in hot yoga can be a misstep:

1. Muscle recovery: Every time you engage in hot yoga, you’re putting your muscles to work. Like any form of exercise, this causes microscopic tears in the muscle fibers. I always stress that it’s during rest that these fibers repair and grow stronger. Without adequate downtime, you’re denying your muscles the chance to rebuild and become more resilient.
2. Avoiding burnout: The intensity of hot yoga, both mentally and physically, can take a toll. You might feel invincible initially, but trust me, continually pushing without breaks can lead to fatigue, decreased motivation, or even aversion to the practice.
3. Reducing injury risk: Overuse of muscles and joints, especially in the heated environment of hot yoga, heightens the risk of strains, sprains, or more severe injuries. By taking regular rest days, you’re not just rejuvenating; you’re actively safeguarding your body.
4. Mental reset: Hot yoga isn’t just a physical journey; it’s a mental one. Just as your body needs breaks, your mind does too. Continual practice without rest can cloud the clarity and mindfulness that yoga aims to cultivate. Sometimes, stepping away for a day or two brings fresh perspective and deeper appreciation.
5. Listening to your body: The ethos of yoga revolves around attunement—to your body, your breath, your limits. By bulldozing through without rest, you might inadvertently drift from this principle, neglecting the subtle cues your body offers about its need for recovery.

My advice to you is to embrace the balance. As you enjoy the sweat and serenity of hot yoga, realize the value of stillness and rest. Rest days are not a sign of weakness or lack of commitment. Completely opposite. They signify a deep respect for your body’s needs and rhythms. Incorporate rest days into your routine and you’ll likely find your actual training days more energetic, focused and passionate.

12. Comparing with others

You see, hot yoga, like many communal activities, offers numerous opportunities to glance sideways—observing your neighbor’s deep stretch or their seemingly perfect pose.  It’s human nature to compare, but here’s why it’s vital to keep your gaze inward during your practice:

1. Personal journey: Yoga is an individual journey of self-discovery and growth. I’ve observed countless students, and each person’s body and mind react differently. What might be easy for one can be challenging for another, and vice versa. Your path in hot yoga is uniquely yours.
2. Different starting points: You never truly know someone’s story. The person next to you might have years of experience or a background in dance or gymnastics. Comparing your beginning to someone else’s middle is not only unfair to you but also misrepresentative of your progress.
3. Risk of injury: Here’s a crucial point. In an attempt to emulate or outdo someone else, you might push your body beyond its current limits. The heated environment of hot yoga already intensifies each stretch and pose. Adding undue pressure to match others can lead to strains, sprains, or worse.
4. Mental distraction: Yoga, particularly hot yoga, requires a certain degree of mental focus and introspection. When your attention drifts towards others, you’re detracting from the meditative, mindful aspect of the practice. I’ve always believed that where your attention goes, energy flows. Don’t let it flow away from your journey.
5. Undermining self-worth: Each time you measure your worth or progress against someone else’s, you’re subtly telling yourself that you’re not enough. Over time, this erodes self-confidence and can sap the joy out of your practice.

Here’s my golden advice for you: Turn your focus inward. Celebrate small victories, acknowledge challenges, and appreciate your body’s efforts. Every time you step on the mat, it’s an opportunity to connect with yourself, not to compare yourself to others.

So, next time you’re in the class, amidst the heat and the sweat, remember this: your mat is your universe. It’s a space of growth, introspection and self-love.  Let others inspire you, but never let their journey overshadow or define yours. Yoga is about unity—unity with oneself. Trust in your path, relish each moment, and recognize that you, just as you are, are enough.