TheHotYogaDoctor

Hi Everyone,

I have been discussing the possibility of practicing Bikram Yoga as suggested by my personal trainer.  I am in pretty good shape (at least I think so).  I work out 5 days a week, and I’m currently training for my 3rd marathon.  I also do a lot of weight training.  My concern is that I currently weigh about 123 lbs and I’m 5’ 5 1/2” .  I struggled when I was young trying to gain a few lbs so needless to say when I reached my ideal weight I was thrilled.  I know this must sound sickening to some, but thin women have their share of struggles too.  We get called names and also share in insecurities.  After many years I have learned to love myself, because God loved me first.  I do know however, that I am not willing to lose weight.  Yes I pretty much eat what I want and as much as I want, but it gets burned off easily.  I’m 41, and would appreciate any suggestions since I have not yet set foot in the “Hot Room”.  I’m excited, but apprehensive at the same time. Any suggestions on what to expect and if this is the style for me.

Heck, I did a hot yoga 30 day challenge in June and despite completely controlling my calories (I’m TRYING to lose weight), I lost all of 1 pound! And I’m 43 and female (but I don’t hate you thinnies out there! hahaha)...SO, just eat what you feel your body needs, regulate your weight by weighing routinely and up the calories with healthy whole foods as required!

Freia

I am 5’9” and weigh around 120 lbs.  I definitely didn’t want to lose weight doing hot yoga and it hasn’t happened!  All that has happened is the small amount of excess fat I had on my body has shrunk and I’ve gained muscle, so the weight has just balanced out on my body.  All of my clothes fit me still, just in a different way because my body shape has changed.  I wouldn’t worry about losing weight doing hot yoga.  I have heard that the yoga will change your body to the most ideal shape for YOUR body, so no matter what your body is like now, it will balance everything out.

here here !!!! LOL

Hi Carole

I have had students in my studio with the same query. Only one of them ever had to supplement their diet - but she was NOT an athlete - and it was temporary. I guess it is for you to try the yoga and monitor your shape (not necessarily your mass (what it says on the scales )- commonly talked about as weight). I think you will be pleasantly surprised.

Come back and tell us what happens to you. And if you need help we are here for you. However I am sure that there are thousands of triathletes and marathon runners who go to hot yoga studios around the world who use this yoga to supplement their training with excellent results.

Namaste
Gabrielle

what???!!!!! i’ve been doing hot yoga in an attempt to lose fat/weight.  especially thighs, hips, butt.

Never fear yogafan

We are only talking about people who have a wiry or athletic shape that don’t want to lose any more shape!!! The important thing is that one loses from a larger shape, and/or replaces fat with muscle (which is heavier than fat).

How are you finding your progress in your desired areas?

Namaste
Gabrielle

Hi Everyone….

Thank you for all of the support and encouragement.  My first session was on Saturday and needless to say I was extremely anxious once I got there, simply becaus I appeared to be the only newbie in the class.  And I was.  Once inside, I thought…oh I won’t last 5 minutes.  Surprisingly I stayed the entire hour and a half…bowing out of only 2 poses, which I felt were a little challenging for me.  I did as instructed and used my mat wisely….after lying down and allowing my body to calm itself…I felt total ease.  I look forward to my next session and eventually in the future mastering some of the poses.  My husband will be joining me next week….Have a great week everyone.

That’s wonderful news. I can sense a newly addicted ‘Inspired’ hot yogini. Please keep us updated to your thoughts and experiences. Can’t wait to hear.

Namaste
Gabrielle

Hi all!
I am in the same boat as Inspired. I am a small framed athlete in my late 20’s(5’5 @ 117lbs). I’d like to know if Gabrielle can share her advice(since she has had student’s inquire at her own studio)on what a yogi can do to avoid losing weight. I had to implemented a diet of eating much more to keep myself in my “ideal” weight range, and I have also cut back my 4-5 a week schedule to 3 days of yoga. I have been practing for 3 years and have noticed a change in the overall shape of my body- more lean and defined- but if I do not eat mass quantities of food, I will drop weight. I feel great, sleep wonderfully, rarely get sick, and I am in the best shape of my life because of Bikram! I am in superb health- I just got blood work done and my doctor had absolutely no complaints. Yes, as Inspired described it sounds like a perfect situation to be in(to lose weight without trying), but when you are an athlete not so much. I would love your feedback Gabrielle, and any and all constructive criticism and advice from my fellow yogis. love and light

Hi Sarah

I guess it gets to a point where you just can’t keep eating.

May I ask if you eat masses of food or if you supplement with anything else? What do you choose to eat after meals, in between meals, as snacks?

Namaste
Gabrielle