Hot yoga is a great way to get your heart rate up and sweat out the toxins in your body. But what should you wear when you take part in a hot yoga class? With the right clothing, not only will you be comfortable throughout the session, but you’ll also be able to move and stretch with ease. In this article, we’ll dive into what to wear for hot yoga so you can get the most out of your practice.
Introduction
Explanation of hot yoga
Hot yoga is a type of yoga that is typically done in a heated environment, usually between 95 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. This type of yoga helps to warm the muscles and ligaments, making it easier to stretch further than in an unheated environment. Hot yoga can also help with detoxifying the body as sweat is produced more quickly due to the heat. It’s important to note that it’s best to practice hot yoga in a well-ventilated area.
Importance of proper attire
It’s important to wear the right clothing when practicing hot yoga as it can make or break your experience. The clothes you wear should be lightweight, breathable and made of natural fibers such as cotton, bamboo or hemp. It’s also important that your clothing fits snugly so that you’re able to move freely without having to constantly adjust it during practice. Additionally , you should avoid wearing anything too loose as it can get caught on your body or the mat while you’re in poses.
Characteristics of the Best Attire for Hot Yoga
Breathable Fabric
Breathable fabrics are essential when it comes to hot yoga. It’s important to select clothes that will allow your skin to breathe and help keep you cool in the heated environment. Fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, and hemp are all breathable options that will help keep you comfortable during your practice. Moreover, look for garments that have a loose fit so that air can flow freely around your body and you won’t get too hot.
Moisture Wicking Properties
Moisture wicking properties are another important characteristic to look for in your hot yoga clothing. Moisture wicking materials will help to draw sweat away from the skin and keep you feeling dry throughout your practice. Fabrics such as performance synthetics, wool, and certain cotton blends are all great options as they are designed to absorb moisture quickly and efficiently. Additionally, some fabric blends offer an added cooling effect that can help you stay comfortable in a heated environment.
Stretchable materials
Stretchable materials are an important factor to consider when selecting hot yoga clothing. Stretchable materials can help you move more freely and comfortably during your poses and stretches. Look for fabrics such as polyester, spandex, and Lycra that are specifically designed with four-way stretch technology. Additionally, some blends of cotton or bamboo may offer a bit of stretch as well. When selecting stretchable materials, make sure to choose ones that are lightweight and breathable as well.
Lightweight and Durable
Lightweight and durable fabrics are an important factor to consider when selecting hot yoga clothing. Not only should the garments be lightweight and breathable, but they should also be durable enough to withstand the heat and frequent stretching. Look for materials such as wool, nylon, and polyester that are known to be more resistant to wear and tear while still being light enough to keep you comfortable. Additionally, some blends of cotton and bamboo may also be lightweight and durable.
Things to Avoid
Cotton
Cotton is a common fabric used in hot yoga clothing. However, it’s important to be aware of the fact that cotton tends to hold onto sweat and can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet. Additionally, cotton does not have any natural built-in stretching capabilities which can make it difficult to move freely during practice. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid wearing 100 % cotton when practicing hot yoga.
Heavy fabrics
Heavy fabrics such as denim, wool, and some synthetic blends should be avoided when selecting clothing for hot yoga. Although these materials may offer protection from the heat in other forms of exercise, they can become quite uncomfortable in a heated environment. As the fabric becomes saturated with sweat, it can weigh down on the body and make it difficult to move freely during practice. Additionally, heavy fabrics tend to be less breathable and may cause you to become too hot during your practice.
Loose clothing
When selecting clothing for hot yoga, it’s important to choose pieces that have a loose fit. Loose fitting clothing allows air to flow freely around your body and helps keep you cool and comfortable during your practice. Look for garments such as shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, and capris that are lightweight and breathable but also provide a bit of extra room . Moreover, it’s important to avoid clothing that is too tight or restrictive as this can cause discomfort and make it difficult to move freely during your practice.
Types of Clothing to Wear
Yoga Pants
Yoga pants are a great option for hot yoga as they provide a perfect balance between comfort and mobility. Look for yoga pants that are lightweight and breathable, such as performance synthetics, spandex, and Lycra blends. Additionally, some versions are designed with four-way stretch technology to help you move freely during your practice. It’s important to choose ones that fit comfortably but not too tightly as this can restrict your movement.
Sports Bra
Sports bras are an essential piece of clothing to wear when participating in hot yoga. Look for sports bras that provide adequate support and coverage without being too tight or restrictive. It’s important to choose a sports bra with built-in ventilation panels to help keep you cool and comfortable during your practice. Additionally, some brands offer moisture-wicking properties to help draw sweat away from the body more efficiently.
Tank Tops
A tank top is a great option for hot yoga as it provides coverage without being too restrictive. Look for tank tops that are lightweight and breathable, such as those made from cotton or performance synthetics. Additionally, some versions are designed with four-way stretch technology to help you move freely during your practice. It’s important to choose ones that fit comfortably but not too tightly as this can restrict your movement.
Sweat-wicking t-shirts
Sweat-wicking t-shirts are an ideal option for hot yoga as they provide excellent breathability and moisture management. Look for t-shirts that are constructed from performance synthetics, such as polyester or nylon, which are designed to draw sweat away from the body more efficiently. Additionally, some brands offer advanced sweat-wicking technology that helps keep you cool and comfortable during your practice.
Conclusion
When selecting clothing for hot yoga, it’s important to choose pieces that are lightweight and breathable yet provide adequate coverage and support. Cotton is a common fabric used in hot yoga clothes but can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet. Heavy fabrics such as denim, wool, and some synthetic blends should be avoided as they can become quite uncomfortable in a heated environment. The best clothing to wear for hot yoga includes items such as shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, and capris that are lightweight and breathable yet provide a bit of extra room. Additionally, sweat-wicking t-shirts are an ideal option for hot yoga as they provide excellent breathability and moisture management.