I already ran. I strength train. And when I’m training for triathlons, I add cycling and swimming to the mix.
With a workout schedule that’s already full, adding another form of exercise wasn’t exactly high on my priority list. But as someone involved in Salem’s professional and business community, I’d gotten to know the owners of several local yoga studios over the years. After hearing about hot yoga enough times, I finally decided it was time to see what it was all about.
I’ll admit, I was a little anxious walking into my first class. Most of the sports I enjoy are things I can do on my own, so any type of group fitness class feels outside my comfort zone. I worried about showing up unprepared, falling behind the other students and struggling to breathe in the heated room.
The first studio I visited was Common People Yoga, where founder Lorissa Addabbo first introduced me to the idea of hot yoga. Although I’d visited the studio several times before, this was my first experience taking a class. The peaceful environment, welcoming instructors and blend of meditation with physical movement made it an enjoyable introduction.
Next, I visited The Hot Loft for a Heated Strength class led by Chip Addabbo. I expected another traditional hot yoga class, but instead found an interval-style workout that combined strength training, cardio and core work. Chip encouraged everyone to work at their own pace while still challenging themselves, and I left the class feeling sweaty, energized and accomplished.
My final stop was Powerhouse Hot Yoga. Founder Meg Boyd has created another welcoming studio with its own personality. During the Power Flow class, the dimly lit room helped create a calm, focused atmosphere, while the instructor encouraged us to both listen to our bodies and gently push beyond our comfort zones.
One thing I appreciated at every studio was how welcoming the experience felt for someone trying hot yoga for the first time. Equipment like yoga blocks and blankets was available to borrow, the instructors clearly explained each movement, and I never felt like I was falling behind.
Perhaps my biggest surprise was that breathing in the heated room wasn’t difficult at all. That had been one of my biggest concerns before attending my first class, but it never became the obstacle I expected.
While each studio offered a different experience, they also shared some common themes. As a triathlete with a routine built around running, strength training and discipline, I appreciated having dedicated time to slow down, focus and be intentional with both my body and my mind. Whether it was a strength-focused class or a more traditional yoga flow, each experience offered something a little different.
One visit to each studio also reminded me that “hot yoga” isn’t just one thing. Each studio offers a variety of classes with different levels of heat, intensity and movement, making it easy to find something that fits your goals, experience level and interests.
If hot yoga has been on your radar, don’t let uncertainty or assumptions keep you from giving it a try. Every studio and every class offers something a little different. The only way to know whether it might be the missing piece of your fitness routine is to experience it for yourself.