What to Wear to Your First Bikram or Hot Yoga Class

For your first hot yoga class, choose clothing that feels comfortable when you bend, reach and sweat: fitted leggings or shorts, a sports bra with suitable support and, if you prefer, a close-fitting top. Bring a change of clothes for afterwards and check your studio’s instructions about mats, towels and water.

Bikram and hot yoga: check which class you have booked

The traditional Bikram series consists of 26 postures and two breathing exercises in a 90-minute heated class. Hot yoga is a broader term: the sequence, pace, room temperature and length can vary. Read the class description so you know what to expect.

Your clothing can make movement more comfortable, but it does not make heat suitable for everyone. If you have concerns about exercising in heat, seek medical advice before booking. During class, stop and tell the instructor if you feel dizzy, faint or unwell.

Choose fabric for movement and sweat

A heavy cotton T-shirt can hold moisture and feel clingy as you sweat. A lighter stretch fabric may feel more comfortable, but the fibre name alone does not tell you how a garment will perform. Look at the composition, construction and care instructions for the specific item.

Dragonfly uses Italian performance fabrics with LYCRA® fibre for stretch and shape retention. During fitting, check that the fabric follows your movement without pulling at seams or making you feel restricted. A snug fit should not mean a waistband that hurts when you fold forward.

Leggings or shorts?

Leggings offer more coverage over the legs. Choose a waistband height you enjoy rather than assuming high rise is always best. Adriana leggings have a mid-rise waist, while Adele leggings sit high on the torso. Bend and sit to see where the top edge lands on you.

Shorts leave more skin uncovered and may feel less enclosed in a warm room. Check the crotch and back coverage in a squat and a comfortable wide stance. Mandy shorts offer a mid-rise option; Emma shorts have a high waist and adjustable side drawstrings.

Neither choice is a beginner requirement. Pick the coverage you feel good in and adjust after you have experienced the class.

Check opacity and fit without relying on a label

Fabric can look different depending on its colour, how much it stretches and the lighting. Check the garment in your size while bending, with the underwear you intend to wear. Avoid stretching it beyond its intended fit. Follow the return conditions when trying on a new item; a wet test may affect whether it can be returned.

Dark colours may make sweat marks less noticeable, but colour is a personal choice. You do not have to hide the fact that you sweat in a heated class.

A sports bra or a longer top

Choose support according to your body and the class, rather than cup size alone. Raise your arms, lean forward and twist gently to check the neckline, underband and straps. You should be able to breathe comfortably without repeatedly repositioning the bra.

The Nicole sports bra offers medium support and a double-layered front. For more torso coverage, the Christine tank has a built-in sports bra. A separate crop top does not necessarily provide support by itself; check its construction before wearing it as your only top.

What to pack for your first class

• Your chosen outfit and a dry change of clothes.
• A mat and mat towel, if the studio asks you to bring them.
• A water bottle and a small towel.
• Anything else listed in your booking instructions.

Arrive with time to introduce yourself and ask about breaks, drinking water and the room setup. Follow the instructor’s guidance and take the session at your own pace.

Explore Dragonfly clothing for Bikram and hot yoga, compare your measurements with the size charts and follow the care instructions after class.