Bikram vs Sumits Yoga vs Hot Yoga: What’s the Difference

sumit685
2 days ago
3 min read

If you’ve practiced hot yoga—or are thinking about starting—you’ve probably heard terms like Bikram Yoga, Hot Yoga, and Sumits Yoga used interchangeably. While they all involve practicing yoga in a heated room, they are not the same.

The biggest difference comes down to one word: structure.

Let’s break it down.

Bikram Yoga: The Original Set Sequence

Bikram Yoga is a fixed sequence of 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises, practiced in a heated room.

This sequence was created by Bikram Choudhury, who learned traditional Hatha Yoga from his teacher Bishnu Ghosh, the younger brother of Paramahansa Yogananda. Bikram took the therapeutic foundation of Hatha Yoga and made two key innovations:

A specific, repeatable sequence
The addition of heat to support flexibility, circulation, and detoxification

Because the sequence never changes, Bikram Yoga offers:

Consistency
Measurable progress
Deep physical and mental discipline

For many practitioners, the repetition becomes a powerful mirror — you don’t chase variety; you refine awareness.

Hot Yoga: A Broad Category

Hot Yoga is not one specific system.

It simply means yoga practiced in a heated room, and it can include:

Vinyasa
Power Yoga
Fusion classes
Teacher-created flows

Most hot yoga classes do not follow a set sequence. The experience can vary greatly depending on:

The teacher
The style
The day

Hot Yoga offers:

Variety
Creativity
Different experiences every class

For some, this keeps the practice exciting. For others, the lack of structure can feel inconsistent.

Sumits Yoga: Structure Meets Evolution

Sumits Yoga was created from experience, lineage, and curiosity.

After studying and teaching Bikram Yoga for years, Sumit deeply respected what the set sequence offered:

Discipline
Consistency
Transformation through repetition

At the same time, he was also influenced by Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga, which emphasize:

Flow
Breath-linked movement
Creative transitions

Sumits Yoga was born by taking the best of both worlds.

What makes Sumits Yoga different:

A set sequence (like Bikram) — so students can build familiarity and depth
Flow and transitions inspired by Ashtanga and Vinyasa
Music to support rhythm, breath, and presence
A balance of strength, flexibility, balance, and mindfulness

It’s structured — but not rigid.Challenging — but accessible.

Why Set Sequences Matter

Both Bikram Yoga and Sumits Yoga share something most hot yoga classes don’t:

👉 A consistent sequence

This allows students to:

Track progress
Develop discipline
Learn their bodies deeply
Experience growth beyond novelty

When the sequence stays the same, you change.

Which One Is Right for You?

There is no “better” practice — only what works for you right now.

Choose Bikram Yoga if you value precision, discipline, and repetition
Choose Hot Yoga if you enjoy variety and different styles
Choose Sumits Yoga if you want structure and evolution

The best practice is the one you’ll return to consistently.

Practicing in Scottsdale, Arizona — and Beyond

At Sumits Yoga, our main studio is located in Scottsdale, Arizona, where we proudly offer both:

Bikram Yoga
Sumits Hot Yoga

In addition to our studios, Sumit has trained teachers and influenced yoga communities across the U.S. and around the world, sharing a practice rooted in lineage, experience, and thoughtful evolution.

Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or going deeper into your journey, you’re invited to experience both styles and discover what resonates most with you.