He added that people enjoy hot yoga because it allows them to feel more flexible.

"But as far as physical benefits," which he said include muscular strength, endurance, flexibility and balance, "you can get those from a standard yoga class".

For the study, the hot yoga was conducted in an average temperature of 92 degrees Fahrenheit (33 Celsius). Bryant said in classes, including the popular Bikram style, where the temperature rises to 105 Fahrenheit (40.5 Celsius) or higher, further study is needed.

"Many folks want to know what happens in that really extreme class," he said. "Our study says you don't have to be at those extreme temperatures to get all those benefits."

New York-based yoga instructor Taj Harris likens a hot yoga class to a physical therapy session with heat packs or a massage with hot stones.

"The heat allows the body to be more supple," said Harris, who teaches 60-, 75- and 90-minute classes at Crunch fitness centres. "It increases joint lubrication as well as flexibility in muscles."

Harris said the heat, which can range from 92 (33 Celsius) to 100 (38 Celsius) degrees Fahrenheit in her classes, eliminates the need for the extended warm-up of a traditional class.

"People like to sweat, they enjoy the way their body feels after a nice heated stretch," she said. "I have had the pleasure of watching some students work through tightness, strains and pains with a regular hot yoga practice."

Harris encourages her yogis to drink water during class, bring plenty of towels to wipe away their excess sweat, and tells them that if they need a respite, it's always cooler on the floor.

Bryant said when doing any activity in a hot environment it's crucial to maintain hydration and to watch out for early danger signs.

Read more from the original source:
Hot yoga 'is no better workout than normal yoga'