Bikram in the Lanes

That’s it, I’m addicted to Bikram Yoga!
I’ve always wanted to like yoga but have quite often struggled with it in the past. When I dedicate time to exercise, I want to work up a sweat and feel like I’m really getting the benefit. And as lovely as it is to lie on the floor, feeling the connection with certain parts of my body, I just don’t feel like I’m getting value for my time and money.
Bikram, however, is different. This is a 90 minute yoga class completed in a room heated to 45 degrees that works muscles in your body that you never knew existed. Boy, did I ache after my first couple of classes! The session involves 2 breathing exercises and 26 postures, all of which are repeated twice. You move between the postures quite quickly, and with the addition of the heat you get a really good cardiovascular workout, at the same time as improving your core strength and flexibility. The class is designed to balance and strengthen every system in the body, to promote weight loss, prevent injury and illness, and limit the effects of aging. At the risk of sounding very new-​worldy, it’s also supposed to promote mental clarity and reduce stress by developing concentration, self control, patience and determination.
All of the teachers at BITL are fantastic. They are very knowledgeable and encouraging. They learn everyone’s name quickly and will help you reach the correct postures during the class to make sure you are getting the maximum benefit without the risk of injury. They are also always available before and after the class for a chat and advise if needed.
The room here is spacious and the front wall is lined with mirrors which really helps you to connect and focus during the class. The room can be a little smelly and it’s best not to think of the volume of sweat that is soaked into the carpet! There are shower rooms and communal showers for use afterwards although these can get busy. Maximum class size is about 30 and there is a good mix of ladies and gents.
Classes are quite expensive, about £13 for a drop in session, but you can also bulk buy classes or get an unlimited monthly package. They also have great discounts on introduction packages. There are usually four classes spread throughout the day so it’s easy to fit into most schedules. There are mats and towels to rent, and drinks, snacks, books and kit available to buy.
Bikram is a yoga revelation for me. It feels like you are getting a complete detox as well as a good workout. It’s even encouraged me to eat healthier and reduce my alcohol intake — this probably won’t last, but might as well make the most of it while I’m motivated!
The only negative for me is the location. The studio is right in the centre of town so getting there can be a nightmare, especially at weekends, and parking is an extra cost on the already pricey classes.

Bikram Yoga is named after Bikram Choudhury, a Calcutta born yoga guru who practiced Yoga for up to 6 hours per day. Bikram famously injured his knee and was told he would never walk again and used yoga to heal himself back to full health.
The Yoga which contains 26 postures is performed in rooms heated to a temperature of 105 degrees farenheit. The thinking behind the hot room is that you become more flexible, you are able to stretch with less risk to muscles and the body in general and that also you sweat out toxins.
I went to the new studio in Brighton (
). Simon & BA made me feel very welcome. The instruction was very inspiring and encouraging. After two classes i could physically see the improvement in my body tone. I can even see my abs coming back which is a miracle as i have begun to resemble the michelin man.
The heat was great just the thing to warm your cockles on a cold Brighton morning. You do get incredibly hot, to the point where your clothes are dripping (wear a bikini or trunks) and you must drink a litre of water.
The class lasted for one and a half hours and I enjoyed manipulating my body into all those positons especially eagle pose which always makes me feel energised as well as the controlled breathing.
Just one class got rid of stress but its recommended that you go back regularly to get the full benefit. When you complete the class, you feel as if you have achieved something.
Bikram Yoga gives me a sense of well being. In today’s technology driven world is important to have mechanisms to switch off. I would advise people that if you enjoy taking care of your mind, spirit and body Bikram is worth the sweat!