After your first Bikram class, what was your impression?

I thought there was a pretty good chance I would be the first person to die in the middle of a class! I didn't really account for the heat and pushed myself way too hard. I've since learned to pace myself better and to take a break when I need it.

What drives you to continue to practice? What keeps bringing you back?

I LOVE the workout. It's incredibly strenuous without being jarring. I've done endurance sports for years - distance running, triathlons, cycling - and, as a result, have had a fair amount of chronic pain. This yoga allows me to work as hard as I ever have while actually
healing my joints and muscles, not aggravating old injuries or creating new ones.

I also love that it's the same thing each and every time. Now that I know the sequence of the postures I find the class meditative.

What are some of the benefits and changes you've seen in yourself?

Definitely better muscle definition all over my body - additionally, my balance and flexibility are improving. I can go much further into poses than I could when I started.

What advice can you give to a 1st timer after they complete the class?

Hang in there. It definitely gets better with time - and, once you know the sequence of the postures, the class really flies by.

Is there anything you would like to add?

The is the best thing I've ever done for myself, bar none. The yoga itself is great - and there's a warm comaraderie among the students, something clearly fostered by Miranda. I can see myself doing this for years and years to come!