A Bikram yoga mat is designed to provide enough friction to prevent slipping during hot yoga practice, where sweat can make the mat slippery. It can be made of synthetic or natural materials and should be washable. Bringing towels is also recommended.
A Bikram yoga mat is a yoga mat suitable for Bikram yoga. Also known as “hot yoga,” Bikram yoga involves gently moving through a series of yoga poses in a heated room. The heat is supposed to increase the depth of the stretch while also stimulating the body to sweat, which some people believe contributes to the release of toxins from the body. While it is not necessary to use a specialized mat for hot yoga, there are some considerations to keep in mind when purchasing a mat for the purpose of attending Bikram yoga classes.
The main concern with mat selection is that Bikram yoga makes people sweat a lot. This is desirable and part of the goal of Bikram yoga practice, but it can be a real problem on the mat, as sweat can make the mat slippery. A sweaty mat can make someone unsteady during challenging poses. Some people solve this problem by placing a towel on the mat, but this can interfere with traction. A Bikram yoga mat is designed to provide plenty of friction, even when damp with sweat.
A good Bikram yoga mat won’t get slippery when someone is sweating, and it may also be too large in size to not need to be adjusted during your yoga routine. Depending on the taste of the yogi or yogini, the mat can be thick, providing more support and cushioning, or thin, allowing a firmer connection to the ground. The mats also come in a range of colors and patterns.
Some people like synthetic mats made of materials designed to be breathable so they don’t become slippery. Foam yoga mats are very common. You can also use mats made from natural materials such as cotton and bamboo, or use a Bikram yoga mat, a woven mat designed for practicing yoga. In all cases, the mat must be washable, otherwise it can become unsightly with use.
People who want to practice Bikram yoga should bring at least two towels along with their Bikram yoga mat. A small hand towel for wiping your hands is helpful, as is a full-size towel for patting the body or placing on the rug if it starts to slip. Many people also like to shower after Bikram sessions, in which case a third towel and a complete change of clothes are highly recommended.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
