Jim Harron, 53

I am a long term government employee with an interest in insects. Also, like Eric, I have found that wine and all its subtle nuances makes for a fun hobby.

How often? Usually 2 times per week

How long? 3 Years

Benefits: For years, I have had back problems. I tried many of the usual things to find relief (chiropractors, muscle relaxers, analgesics, physical therapy) with little success. Further, years of running and not stretching left me with iron hamstrings and no flexibility. After a few weeks of Bikram yoga I started noticing less and less pain. Now, I am relatively pain free, can sleep better and do not pop ibuprofen like candy.

Challenges: When I first started, I found out I had TERRIBLE balance and that I had to use the back wall to balance in several of the postures. Gradually, the balance has greatly improved. I am still working on the flexibility.

Many of my postures may not be picture perfect and I still struggle with many of them. However, for me, being relatively pain free after many years is certainly worth it. Bikram yoga may not help all back problems, but it did mine.