Losing Weight With Bikram for Men

Bikram yoga is a hot exercise trend -- literally. According to the American Council on Exercise, Bikram yoga studios are typically heated from 105 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. While this may sound uncomfortable, it's worth it if you want to lose weight. Men can expect to burn plenty of calories with Bikram, making it a great choice to shed some pounds.

  1. Calories Burned

    • As with any exercise, the number of calories that you burn doing Bikram yoga will depend on your weight. In a typical 90-minute class a 180-pound man will burn 1,225 calories according to the University of New Mexico. A lighter, 160-pound man will burn just 1,089 calories in the same class. On the other hand, a 200-pound man will burn 1,361 calories in a 90-minute Bikram yoga class.

    Weight Loss

    • To lose a single pound of fat you'll need to burn 3,500 calories. For a 160-pound man this will take the equivalent of just over three classes. A 180-pound man can expect to burn enough calories to lose a pound of fat in just under three typical classes. A 200-pound man will burn enough calories to lose a pound of fat in about two and a half classes.

    Diet

    • You'll only lose weight from Bikram if you also control your diet. If you simply eat back the calories you burn you won't see any weight loss. According to the McKinley Health Center you should aim to create a daily calorie deficit of between 500 and 1,000 calories per day through diet and exercise. A typical Bikram yoga class will likely burn more than 1,000 calories so you may need to actually add some calories on days that you work out. But on days that you don't work out, or days that you do a shorter class you'll need to cut calories from your diet.

    Cautions

    • Always consult a physician before starting an exercise or weight loss program. Bikram yoga is generally safe and is considered a low-intensity exercise, but only your doctor can tell you if it's right for you. According to the American Council on Exercise there is no additional risk from the heat used in a Bikram yoga class, but you should stay hydrated to allow your body to regulate its core temperature.

      Be sure to consume enough calories even when trying to lose weight. According to the McKinley Health Center, men should never consume fewer than 1,800 calories per day.