Let's face it, there are so many different types of yoga out there that it's really hard to differentiate between what means what and which class you're best suited to. And then beyond that, there are also a whole load of hot yoga classes to try and get your head around too.
If there's one thing we've learnt it's that every yoga session will differ depending on who teaches it, and most of the time it'll be regardless of whether or not you're repeating the same fixed movements. With hot yoga the temperature can really vary too, as can the style of the class. We ventured over to the yoga haven that is Triyoga to give one of their open hot yoga classes a go to see a) what it's like, b) if we could handle the heat, and c) how much sweat constitutes actually needing to take a shower afterwards because: be arsed.
Here's how it all went down...
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First thoughts?
Jazmin: Bloody love a stretch, I do. But a slow, gentle, far from laborious stretch. Once upon a time that’s what I thought yoga was. I’ve since learned that it’s not. So, I’m mildly prepared.
Lucy: The entrance, which is hidden in a carpark in Camden, didn't prepare me for how swish this studio is and how slick the yogi's lounging barefoot in the lobby-come-cafe would be.
How difficult is it?
Jazmin: The pace was nice and gentle, to begin with, but once we got into the sort of poses that actually engage secret muscles I stopped being able to blag my way through with my ex-dancer flexibility and really struggled. Also, you know, the heat makes everything a little bit harder if you’re not good at the steady, controlled breathing thing.
Lucy: I'm going to level with you, I've spent years practicing Bikram yoga, so stretching in a heated room is something I've acclimated to. As the class wasn't as warm as a Bikram, I never felt truly tested. However, the pace of the poses kept me engaged (and sweating).
Do I need a working knowledge of exercise beforehand?
Jazmin: For an open class where lots of the people seem really good, you might feel a bit more comfortable if you know your warrior one from your king pigeon. That said, the instructor is there for a reason so mimic and ask all the questions (quietly so not to disturb everyone’s zen).
Lucy: It would help to have a vocabulary of yoga poses in your locker, but strictly speaking it's not necessary as the instructor was informative and happy to reposition yogis who haven't found their inner warrior.
Can I fit it into a lunch break?
Jazmin: Lucy and I did it! Albeit we made it back to the office a little late because it takes a full hour, but it’s definitely possible. You might prefer a morning class though.
Lucy: No clue what Jaz is on about...the class takes a full hour and it would be unkind to your colleagues to return to work without showering.
Could I take a mate?
Jazmin: I always find this a difficult one to answer because yoga is all about looking inwards, right? But also life’s more fun with a pal to voluntarily drench themselves in sweat alongside you.
Lucy: Yes. While conversation is frowned upon it helps to have moral support while you both fluff the pigeon.
Would I need to shower after?
Jazmin: Let’s put it this way – I went back to the office without showering on account of being super dedicated and stuff (and not being bothered at the time, but let’s not talk about that bit) and by the time I sat at my desk I was so conscious of how disgusting I was I couldn’t actually do any work. So please shower. For your own sake. And your colleagues.
Lucy: Sending side-eye to Jaz right now. I had to shower, but maybe I value cleanliness more.
Was it fun though?
Jazmin: Oh yeah I had a whale of time when I could do the poses. Got a bit grumpy when I couldn’t.
Lucy: I loved it. For anyone who enjoys a stretch and timeout from staring at the screen, this is for you.
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Follow Jazmin on Instagram @JazKopotsha
Follow Lucy on Instagram @lucyalicemorris
This article originally appeared on The Debrief.