Hot yoga - Marilyn Barnett

Hot Yoga is based on Bikram Yoga. Bikram yoga is a system offering a series of 26 postures, designed to restore vitality, heal, and help prevent a range of common chronic ailments. It differs from traditional yoga, as it performed in a heated room, equipped with mirrors - hence the name hot yoga (which Bikram himself does not use).

The room is heated to at least 100F (38C). The postures are easy to learn, and can be approached from any level of strength and flexibility. The theory is that when the body is cold it is difficult to move. Warmed up muscles make the body more pliable, so that you can achieve a deeper stretch. The heat also helps to flush out toxins and impurities.

'Stretching in the heat is actually very comfortable and I sensed my body opening up in a way it simply can't do at lower temperatures…In short, I am addicted.' Evening Standard, February 2000