Why Are Bikram Yoga Classes 90 Minutes Long?

The 90-minute class length is a foundational, non-negotiable pillar of the traditional Bikram method. It is not an arbitrary duration but a crucial component of the sequence's therapeutic design, intended to facilitate a comprehensive and systematic recalibration of the entire body. The sequence is structured to take the practitioner through a full range of motion, systematically working the body from the bones to the skin. The 90-minute timeframe allows for each of the 26 postures to be performed twice. The first set is often seen as a warm-up for the pose, allowing the body to acclimate to the shape. The second set is where the practitioner can safely work deeper, holding the posture for its full duration to realize its maximum benefits. This repetition with a brief rest in between is key to the method's effectiveness. Furthermore, this duration is a test of mental endurance and concentration. It requires the practitioner to stay present and focused through fatigue and challenge, transforming the physical practice into a powerful form of moving meditation. While shorter, 60-minute versions of the sequence exist, purists of the Bikram method argue that they compromise the integrity and therapeutic arc of the original 90-minute class, which was designed to be a complete mind-body overhaul.