Hot yoga is definitely one of my favorite types of yoga. For me, there is no better feeling than a big sweat. Hot yoga rids your body of toxins, opens your muscles and makes you more flexible, and allows Shavasana to feel even greater. There are some things you should know before entering your first hot yoga class and some things you should be aware of.

• Bring a small towel. You will get very sweaty. Use this to wipe off your face and the sweat on your body! Trust me, this will be very useful throughout the class.
• Put a towel over your yoga mat. I got mine from Target for a relatively inexpensive class. Having a towel over your mat prevents your hands and feet from slipping.
• Drink water beforehand and during your practice. Staying hydrated is the key.
• Don’t push yourself too hard. Pace yourself throughout your practice. Go to the child’s pose when needed and don’t hesitate to take a break at any time.
• Wear leggings! I highly advise wearing leggings over shorts to hot yoga. It is much easier to hold crow while wearing leggings as your legs won’t slip.
• Don’t compare your practice to the person next to you. Some people have been doing hot yoga for a very long time. Remember to focus on your own practice and growth. The only person you need to be worried about is yourself.
• If you need to leave the class because you feel lightheaded, just tell the teacher. There is no shame in needing to step outside the class for a few minutes. Your well-being is far more important!
• Don’t eat anything too heavy before a class. My favorite pre-yoga foods are smoothies, rice cakes with peanut butter and banana, granola bars, oatmeal, or Greek yogurt. Being full throughout a practice is never comfortable.
• Don’t be afraid to just wear a sports bra. You will get very hot. Wearing just a sports bra in hot yoga is totally okay and not frowned upon. In fact, it is more comfortable than wearing a tank top.
• Inform the teacher that it is your first hot yoga class. Letting the teacher know this will give them a heads up that you are new to this and may need to take a break here and there.

Hot yoga is one of my favorite yoga practices. At first, it was quite the challenge for me and left me feeling exhausted. But over some time and with practice and perseverance, it has grown to be so enjoyable for me. If you struggle at first, don’t give up! Give this practice a chance before making any judgments against it, and remember all these tips before trying your first class. Get ready to have fun and get your sweat on!