Bikram Yoga became famous in the early 2000s. It was known for its 26 postures, 2 breathing exercises, and the heated room. But after some controversy surrounding its founder, many people began to ask: Is Bikram Yoga still popular today?
Let’s explore the real story behind the trend. We’ll look at how people feel about it in 2025, who still practices it, and why this style of hot yoga continues to matter.
What is Bikram Yoga?
Bikram Yoga is a type of hot yoga. It uses the same sequence of 26 poses and 2 breathing exercises, practiced in a room heated to around 105°F (40°C) with high humidity. Each class lasts 90 minutes.
The routine never changes. You always do the same postures, in the same order. That’s what makes it different from other styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga.
This style was created by Bikram Choudhury, who brought it to the U.S. from India. He opened many studios and trained thousands of teachers.
Why Did People Love Bikram Yoga?
In the beginning, people loved Bikram Yoga for many reasons:
- Structure – You know what to expect in every class.
- Detox – The heat makes you sweat a lot, helping release toxins.
- Mental focus – Repeating the same poses helps build discipline.
- Physical benefits – It improves flexibility, balance, and strength.
Athletes, celebrities, and everyday people all practiced Bikram Yoga. It grew fast across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Australia.
What Happened to Bikram Yoga?
In the 2010s, the founder Bikram Choudhury was involved in legal problems, including lawsuits and serious allegations. A Netflix documentary titled “Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator” exposed his behavior to a wide audience.
As a result, many studios dropped the name “Bikram” and switched to “Hot Yoga.” Some yoga schools also stopped offering teacher training programs under his name.
But here’s the interesting part…
Even after all that, the practice itself didn’t die.
So, Is Bikram Yoga Still Popular Today?
Yes. Bikram Yoga is still popular in 2025, but in a different way than before.
Here’s why:
1. The Practice Works
Many people say they feel amazing after class. The routine may be hard, but it helps with:
- Stress relief
- Increased flexibility
- Weight loss
- Better sleep
When something works, people stick with it — even if the founder’s name is no longer used.
2. Studios Still Teach It
Across the world, hundreds of studios still teach the original 26&2 sequence. Some call it “Hot 26,” “26&2,” or “Original Hot Yoga.”
Some examples include:
- Jiwa Bikram Yoga Bali – Bali, Indonesia
- Bikram Yoga Harlem – New York, USA
- Bikram Yoga San Jose – California, USA
These studios are busy. They have loyal communities and even offer Bikram-style teacher training.
3. Teacher Training is Still Active
Programs like YogaFX and a few others offer Hot Yoga Teacher Training that follows the same 26&2 method. Some include online options, making it easier for students worldwide to join.
In fact, new generations of teachers are trained each year, helping to keep the tradition alive.
4. Hot Yoga Is Booming Again
After COVID-19, people are looking for stronger ways to build health. Hot yoga is growing again. While not all hot yoga is Bikram, many people prefer the original 90-minute, structured class.
What Changed Since the Controversy?
The biggest change is this:
Many people now separate the practice from the man.
They enjoy the method, the heat, the sequence — but they don’t use the founder’s name. Studios are owned by new teachers, with fresh energy, and often stronger ethics.
Some changes include:
- Using inclusive language in class
- Offering shorter 60-minute options
- Adding music or extra breathing work
- Focusing more on healing and safety
In short, Bikram Yoga evolved.
Who Still Practices Bikram Yoga?
1. Dedicated Practitioners
People who fell in love with the practice years ago still attend regularly. Many say it’s the only workout that works for them.
2. Newcomers
Surprisingly, many people new to yoga try Bikram because it’s clear, simple, and consistent. They don’t need to learn fancy flows. Just follow the teacher and breathe.
3. Athletes and Performers
Dancers, runners, and sports professionals use Bikram Yoga to build core strength and recover from injuries.
What’s the Future of Bikram Yoga?
The future of Bikram Yoga depends on one thing: the community.
Teachers, studios, and students keep the practice alive. As long as people find value in the 26&2 sequence, it will continue to be taught — with or without the original name.
In 2025, we’re seeing more:
- Hybrid programs (online + in-person)
- YouTube classes and mobile apps
- Independent teacher trainings around the world
The truth is, Bikram Yoga isn’t “trendy” anymore — it’s timeless.
Final Thoughts
So, is Bikram Yoga still popular?
Yes — not in a viral TikTok way, but in a lasting, loyal, and global way. The practice has survived controversy, criticism, and even a pandemic. That shows how powerful it really is.
If you’re looking for a hot yoga style that’s simple, strong, and structured, Bikram Yoga (or 26&2) might be perfect for you.
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