Does Heating Type Affect Hot Yoga Practice?

Yes, the type of heating can significantly affect the quality and feel of a hot yoga practice. While both methods will make you sweat, practitioners often have a strong preference for one over the other, with infrared heating being the modern favorite for several reasons. The primary benefit of infrared heat is the quality of the warmth. It penetrates the body directly, warming the muscles, joints, and tissues from within. This can lead to a feeling of deeper, more accessible flexibility and can help to soothe aches and pains. The air itself remains less heated, making it easier to breathe deeply and comfortably throughout the class. This creates a 'cleaner' feeling heat that many find less suffocating and more energizing. In contrast, forced-air systems heat the air, which can lead to a stuffy, oppressive environment that some people find challenging to breathe in. The air can feel dry and heavy, and the system can create drafts and uneven hot spots in the room. While perfectly functional for creating a hot environment, many yogis find that the radiant, silent, and deeply penetrating warmth of an infrared system enhances their ability to focus, breathe, and move with intention.