Bikram Yoga vs Vinyasa – What Are Its Differences?

There are various types of yoga out there. Some are more challenging than others.

One of the most popular forms of yoga is Bikram Yoga. Some people claim Bikram Yoga is the best type of yoga. 

Other people say it's not even yoga at all but a challenging exercise routine. So what's the difference between Bikram Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga? 

In this article, I will explain the main differences between Bikram Yoga and Vinyasa. 

Hopefully, after reading this, you will be able to make an informed decision as to which style of yoga is best for you.

Vinyasa yoga

Vinyasa yoga is known as “flow yoga” because it focuses on continuous exercises paired with breathing techniques. Vinyasa yoga is a fast-paced, energetic kind of yoga that is great for cardio. 

Vinyasa stretches and tones muscles while increasing flexibility. During a Vinyasa yoga class, expect to execute at least a dozen poses in fast succession.

 In Vinyasa, controlled breathing is just as crucial as a bodily movement. Breathing in and out helps reinvigorate your body and clear away any toxins that accumulate throughout the day. This type of yoga is often done as a series to create a full-body workout. 

Bikram yoga

The most well-known hot yoga is Bikram yoga. Bikram Choudhury, a yoga instructor, devised this unique yoga style, consisting of 26 poses and two breathing exercises conducted in a chamber heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Within a 90-minute session, this routine is repeated twice. This complete exercise is intended to be a full-body workout that will strengthen and tone muscles while making your body more supple. 

In addition, these sessions provide emotional and physical cleansing for some Bikram yoga practitioners. 

The goal of Bikram yoga is to improve posture, deliver a more robust immune system, and increase flexibility both mentally and physically. To accomplish this, you will need a high level of commitment and mental fortitude. 

It’s no secret that working out in a sweltering room can be challenging. However, you have to be inspired enough to see it through despite any obstacles you may face along the way. 

One of the main reasons people choose Bikram yoga is because it's pretty effective in detoxifying your system.

Benefits

Even though Bikram and Vinyasa are two very different types of yoga, they both have similar health advantages. 

Students sweat due to the heat in a Bikram yoga classroom and the heat generated by their bodies during a Vinyasa yoga practice, which helps cleanse the body of toxins. 

Both techniques aid in the development of flexibility, endurance, and strength. These routines also help to relieve the stress of modern life. 

Both types of yoga are beneficial to people with health issues, such as back problems, depression, and even diabetes.

Critical differences between Bikram and Vinyasa yoga

• Bikram yoga positions are much more intense than Vinyasa. 
• Bikram yoga involves 26 poses, while Vinyasa only includes about half of that.
• Bikram yoga involves two breathing exercises, while Vinyasa doesn’t have any breathing techniques.
• Bikram yoga is relatively newer than any other type of yoga, and it is more popular than others. 

Which one is best for you?

Both are very effective in their way. However, it’s really up to you to decide which style of yoga you want to practice.

Whether you choose Bikram or Vinyasa, you must stay committed no matter what happens. 

Don’t get discouraged if something is difficult at first. If you have a desire to better yourself through yoga, it will be worth every effort. 

Conclusion

Although Bikram yoga is more popular, there are plenty of people who prefer Vinyasa. The benefits of each style are clear, so it’s really up to you to choose which one is better for you. 

If you desire to become healthier and stronger physically and mentally, then Vinyasa or Bikram yoga will help you do just that. 

Whether you want to lose weight, gain muscle tone, or feel better about yourself in general, it’s worth giving yoga a try!