With the January detox well under way, Marc West turns turns up the heat at his first session of Hot Yoga

With the weather far too unpleasant to run this time of year (that’s my excuse anyway), I’ve been looking for an activity to complement my Dryathlon throughout January and flush out all the toxins of the festive season.

Recommended to me by a (former indie rockstar) friend, it’s the exercise regime so hot right now that countless celebrities swear by it – but, it’s actually been practised for many thousands of years. So, I bought myself an exercise mat with the store voucher I got for Christmas (thanks, Uncle Paul) and stepped out for my first Yoga session… of the Hot variety!

Located just off Cowley Road, Yoga Venue is Oxford’s only purpose-built studio – a dedicated space for students to study and enjoy their practice. Beginners learn a series of 26 positions and breathing exercises in a heated room where temperatures soar to 40 degrees – so be prepared to sweat LOTS!

Each posture stretches, strengthens and prepares the body for the next to maximise oxygenation and detoxification. With regular practice, you can gain muscle strength, improve flexibility and achieve weight loss. And it’s also said to help develop concentration, patience, determination and self-control. Don’t expect to master it overnight, but I can vouch for the fact you’ll sleep like never before and feel fantastic the following day with a healthy glow that belies this time of year.

Our friendly teacher Ian, top right, gave an introduction to this ancient practice that was somewhat unique. In the midst of refurbishing his house in 2004 and faced with the dilemma of not having a bathroom for a week, he thought he’d try Bikram Yoga at his local studio – conveniently located around the corner. Not only would this provide a bathroom, but also a hot place to stretch as a bonus. Despite the home amenities issue being quickly resolved, Ian continues his practice to this day.

“It’s an amazingly sharp tool,” he says, “that is both versatile and universal when it comes to restoring the body and calming the mind.”

Right now, they’re offering an introductory package of unlimited visits to any class for two weeks at the bargain price of only £30. So, with all that rainy day money you’ve saved this month, you’ve no excuse to not sign up now – especially if you’re refurbishing your house! Visit yogavenue.co.uk for all details. And, if (like me) you’re dying to get back into your regular running routine, here’s something to focus on for the very near future.

Previous years have seen thousands of runners, run thousands of miles and raise hundreds of thousands of pounds to help make a difference to thousands of young lives across the county and the UK.

Now in it’s 12th year, the annual OX5 Run – in aid of the Oxford Children’s Hospital – is looking for supporters of all abilities who can run, jog or simply walk the stunning five-mile course around the grounds of Blenheim Palace in Woodstock.

Entry is only £10 in advance and all details can be found at ox5run.co.uk. Every penny counts, so be sure to register now and put your best foot forward on March 30 to help raise this year’s target of £100,000. See you at the start line!