Taking your first BikramMethod Yoga or Inferno Hot Pilates class is a big step toward greater health, strength, and well-being. We’re here to ensure your experience is positive, safe, and empowering. Here’s everything you need to know before you step into the hot room for the very first time.
The Setting:
All BikramMethod Yoga classes follow a set sequence of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises, with PowerHour and PowerHour Plus classes adding first and second level postures towards the BikramMethod Advanced series. The Inferno Hot Pilates classes are interval training using Pilates principles. All classes offered at Yoga Maui are practiced in a room heated by infrared panels to varying and appropriate degrees. The heat helps you stretch safely, flush out toxins, and focus your mind.
The Experience:
Expect to sweat—a lot! The first classes are about acclimating to the heat and the postures. You may choose to simply focus on staying in the room for the entire class! Every practitioner, from beginner to advanced, works at their own pace. You are encouraged to rest when needed and do your best.
The Community:
Our classes are welcoming and non-judgmental. You’ll be surrounded by people of all ages, body types, levels of health, and backgrounds… all working toward their own goals. Remember, everyone was new once, and our supportive ohana is here to help you succeed.
Hydrate Well:
Begin drinking water several hours before class—hydration is crucial for your safety and comfort. Coconut water or electrolyte replenishing foods and drinks can be especially helpful if you’re prone to sweating a lot. If you are coming for a morning class you may consider waiting on your caffeine wake up until after class.
Eat Smart:
Avoid eating heavy meals at least 2–3 hours before class. If you need a snack, choose something light and easily digestible.
Dress Appropriately:
Wear light, moisture-wicking clothing such as a leggings, tank top or bra top, shorts and tshirt, or swimsuit. Avoid loose and baggy clothing.
Pack Your Bag:
Bring:
A yoga mat
A large towel to cover your mat
A full water bottle (we also have a structured water refill station, sell coconut water and draft Maui Kombucha kombucha)
A change of clothes for after class
A second shower towel
We offer mat rentals and towel purchase if you need them.
Arrive Early:
Arrive 15–20 minutes before your first class. This gives you time to check in, ask questions, meet your instructor, and get comfortable in the room. The doors close at class begin time so please prepare for any traffic or possible delays.
Skip Perfume/Lotion:
Avoid strong scents and lotions before class. Fragrances can be overwhelming in the heat and may distract you and others, most lotions sit on your skin holding heat and sweat in, which will make you feel hotter.
Listen to Your Body:
The most important thing is to tune into your body. At any time, sit or lie down on your mat and focus on your breath. It’s normal to take breaks, especially in your first few classes.
Focus on Your Breath:
Calm, steady breathing will help you manage the heat and monkey mind. Instructors will guide your breath throughout the class.
You are Perfect because you are doing your best every class:
Everyone is at a different level every day. Your goal is simply to try your best and stay present. Progress comes with practice—comparing yourself to others does not serve you.
Let Yourself Sweat:
Sweat cools your body naturally and is the largest eliminative organ in/on your body. Bring a towel for your mat and let your body do its thing.
Embrace Savasana:
The resting pose, savasana, is The most important posture in the series. Use these intervals to relax, reset, and let your body begin to integrate the postures.
Hydrate Again:
Drink water and/or an electrolyte beverage after class and throughout the day to replenish fluids and minerals lost through sweat.
Eat Light:
A healthy snack or meal after class will help you recover and refuel.
Rest and Reflect:
Take a few moments to notice how you feel—physically and mentally. Set an intention for your day or week based on your experience.
Plan Your Next Visit:
The first class is often the hardest. We recommend attending 3–6 classes every week to truly acclimate and see the benefits.
Absolutely! All classes are designed for all levels and all bodies. Flexibility and strength will come with consistent practice. Treat the postures/moves as a journey rather than a destination
That’s perfectly normal. Most of us are not ‘good’ at yoga , but the feeling you take with you after class is what you will come back for! Treat the postures/moves as a journey rather than a destination and just try your best, rest when needed, and focus on staying in the room. Every class is progress.
The set sequence addresses every part of your body from the inside out, builds mastery and discipline, allowing you to track your progress and deepen your understanding of yourself and your body through the postures.
Practice as often as you can, like, and are able to fit into your schedule —for life changing results, many students practice 3-7 times a week. Consistency is key to seeing benefits, but always listen to your body and rest as needed. Please always keep in mind… one class is better than none!
Our community is supportive and body-positive. Most students are focused on their own practice, and you’ll quickly find that comparisons and self-consciousness melt away in the heat and focus of class.
Yes, you will lose weight IF you need to lose weight for your optimum health. Your body will quickly begin to change/heal. Not only may you lose weight, your weight will be better distributed throughout your body. Your body and health will transform itself! Your will naturally and effortlessly gravitate to healthier food choices, your body will become more efficient in burning calories and regulate your metabolism. The more often you do you practice the better you will feel!
Ready to begin? Reserve your spot, bring your best effort, and welcome yourself to the Yoga Maui ohana. We look forward to seeing you on the mat!
Drink coconut water the night before a morning class for extra hydration1.
Bring an open mind and a sense of humor—everyone has a first class!
Don’t be discouraged if you find it challenging. You will leave feeling more confident and peaceful.
Ask questions—our instructors love helping new students.
Ready to begin? Reserve your spot, bring your best effort, and welcome yourself to the Yoga Maui ohana. We look forward to seeing you on the mat!
