Hello new yogi!
Many people who come to hot yoga for the first time are a bit intimidated. These feelings are very normal. Don’t let that keep you from trying our classes. Yes, it’s hot. Yes, it’s humid. Yes, it’s difficult! Come give it a try. It might just change your life!
Before Class
- If you are a new student, please arrive 15 minutes early to your first class to fill out forms, talk with your teacher, and find the perfect spot in the room.
- Dress to be comfortable! Typically, women wear shorts or yoga pants, and sports bras with or without a tank. Men usually find that shorts and a t-shirt (or not) are the most comfortable. Avoid sweat pants, long sleeved shirts, and 100% cotton clothing.
- Drink plenty of water before class and bring water with you in a non-breakable container. Avoid eating for a few hours prior to class.
During Class
- Take short breaks and sips of water as necessary.
- Concentrate on breathing to help you focus and relax.
- Know that it is common to become dizzy or nauseated as well as overwhelmed. If this happens, feel free to lay down on your mat, breath, and relax. Rejoin the group when you are ready.
After Class
- If you are heading off to work or to an appointment, you may want to take advantage of our fully stocked locker rooms. We have spacious showers and the amenities you will need to get ready for your day.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day. You may consider electrolyte-rich fluids to replenish your body.
- You will be hungry after your class so keep a snack handy.
- You may feel tired and sore after the first few classes. Rest assured that the more you come to yoga, the more invigorated you will feel.
Class Etiquette
As with most activities, there is a certain etiquette that will make everyone, including yourself, more comfortable. Please read through the Yoga Class Etiquette. If you need further explanation, speak with one of the instructors.
Honor Yourself
- Challenge yourself in your practice but respect where your body is today. Never move into pain. Don’t compare yourself to other practitioners.
- Stay in the room. If you are feeling overwhelmed, come to your mat in child’s pose or savasana. If you must leave the room, make eye contact with your teacher to let them know you are okay or that you need assistance.
- Enjoy savasana, the final resting pose that brings closure to your practice. It helps to calm the mind and still the body.
Honor Others
- Arrive to all classes early or on time. Please don’t enter the room once class has started.
- Remain quiet in the room and reception while classes are in session to allow everyone a peaceful practice.
- Please avoid perfumes and other fragrances. Don’t avoid deodorant.
- Please leave your cell phone in your car or in the locker room.
- Shower quickly so that others may also get cleaned up.
Honor Your Teachers
- Don’t move ahead of the teacher’s cues even if you know what is next. The teacher may have reason to hold a posture for a certain amount of time.
- Let your teachers know if you need modifications due to an illness or injury.
Honor the studio
- Help keep the studio clean and in order.
- Fold your blankets and return them to their place.
- Leave studio mats, blocks, and bolsters in the room so they can be properly cleaned.
- If you sweat heavily, please bring additional towels into the room to wipe your area and to wrap around yourself as you leave.
- Place dirty towels in the hampers in the bathrooms.
- If there is an issue with cleanliness or safety in the studio, please make your teacher aware of the situation so it can be quickly corrected.
Got Questions?
What is traditional hot yoga?
Hot Yoga is a sequence of 26 yoga postures performed in a room heated to 104° with ~ 50% humidity. The heat allows for greater stretching and flexibility and helps to prevent injury. We do offer other heated and non-heated options so take a look at our schedule and class descriptions to find the right class for you.
Can i try yoga even if I am not flexible?
Most people believe that you need to be flexible in order to do yoga. Flexibility is not a perquisite. With regular practice most people do become more flexible. In the meantime, our teachers can help modify poses and may suggest the use of props to support your practice.
Where is the best place for me to set up in the room?
If you are new to yoga, you may want to place your mat in the middle or back of the room. This way if you need to, you can sneak a peek at other students to see how the pose is set up. Make sure that you have a clear view of yourself in the mirror (Even if you don’t want to look at yourself, the mirror will become a great learning tool!) Try different spots in the room for a fresh perspective every class.
What do I bring?
You will need a yoga towel, mat, and a bottle of water. You may also like to have a hand towel to wipe the sweat during class and a bath towel if you plan to shower. First time students and members will be provided towels and a mat for each class. Rentals are available if you forget yours.
What ShOULD I WEAR?
Our Hot 60- and 90-minute classes are heated to 104° with 40%–50% humidity. Our Signature Haute Flow classes are heated to 98° with 60%-70% humidity. We suggest dressing in light and stretchy synthetic material. Cotton is not recommended as it absorbs moisture and becomes heavy.
If you are comfortable, women should wear a sports bra and shorts. This allows you to see that you are properly aligned in your postures as well as seeing if your muscles are contracting. If you do not have this comfort level, it is perfectly acceptable to wear yoga pants and tank tops.
Men should practice hot yoga without a shirt. Shorts only are preferred but you may also wear a t-shirt or tank.
Should I eat and drink before class?
It is not recommended that you eat a large meal before you attend class. It is much better to have a small snack or light meal a few hours before class. Please come to class well-hydrated.
Should I practice yoga if I have an illness or injury?
This is a question best answered by your physician. Many people believe that yoga can help those rehabilitating from and injury or illness. It is always advisable for you to refrain from moving into any pain. If you need modifications or props to support your poses, please let your teacher know.
Is hot yoga safe for pregnant women and children?
If you are new to hot yoga and are pregnant, check with your physician before starting a heated class. Hot yoga is not recommended for children who have not reached puberty. Students under 16 years of age will not be permitted to enroll in the heated classes. Students ages 17-18 may participate with the signature of a parent or guardian. There are other offerings that may be more suitable during pregnancy and for students under the age of 18.
How often should I practice Yoga?
Students who practice yoga 3 or more times per week receive the most benefit. You may also practice more than once per day if it suits you. HYC will be running 30 day-challenges in which students practice 30 classes over a 30-day period. This is a great way to reinvigorate your practice, find your outer strength and inner peace, and earn a sweet t-shirt or other great prizes for finishing.
Is it okay to practice yoga if I participate in other athletic programs?
Absolutely! Combining your yoga practice with other forms of exercise maximized the benefits of both. Yoga can increase strength and agility while training the mind to completely focus on the task at hand. Coaches are beginning to use yoga with all types of high school, college, and professional athletes.
Should I say Namaste?
Many students are hesitant to end their class by saying Namaste. Translated, “The light in me honors the light in you” allows the teacher and student to express gratitude for each other and brings closure to the class. If you are comfortable, say Namaste!
READY to join?
We are so excited that you have decided to take a class at Haute Yoga Colorado. While most of our classes are performed in a hot or heated room, we do offer non-heated options as well. Check out our schedule and class descriptions to pick the class that is right for you. We have great discounts for new students. Military, teachers, and first responders, bring in your ID to receive your discount.