Former NBA player Joe Johnson has transitioned from basketball to opening a hot yoga studio, describing it as a deeply meaningful pursuit.

Joe Johnson, a former NBA All-Star, has built a reputation for himself as a skilled basketball player. However, there is another side to this sports legend that many may not be aware of - his love for hot yoga. In fact, Johnson has become a prominent figure in Atlanta's hot yoga scene, earning the nickname "Iso Joe" along the way.

In a recent interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE, Johnson opened up about how he first got into hot yoga. It all started when he was facing injuries and severe inflexibility in his knees and Achilles. His trainer, Wally Blase, recommended hot yoga as a form of physical therapy, and Johnson decided to give it a try. To his surprise, the practice helped him recover in less than a week, and he has been hooked ever since.

Despite retiring from the NBA in 2022, Johnson continued his daily practice of hot yoga. And in late 2023, he took his passion to the next level by opening his own hot yoga studio, Iso Yoga, in Atlanta. The studio's grand opening was met with much enthusiasm from the city's residents, who saw it as an opportunity to release their sweat and tension in a therapeutic way.

Hot yoga, also known as Bikram Yoga, has gained popularity in recent years, with its roots dating back to the 1970s when controversial instructor Bikram Choudhury first taught it in Japan. It involves practicing traditional yoga poses in a heated room, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees. This challenging form of exercise not only benefits the body but also the mind, as it can lead to improved flexibility, reduced stress levels, and better cardiovascular health.

To spread the word about hot yoga, Iso Yoga holds community days every week, offering reduced-price classes to attract new students. The studio has also partnered with organizations like HBCU Elite to encourage Black collegiate athletes to incorporate hot yoga into their fitness routines.

One of the unique aspects of Iso Yoga is its diverse team of instructors, who reflect the city's population. Brandon McIntosh, a former military man and one of the studio's teachers, is breaking down stereotypes and encouraging more Black men to join the practice. He takes pride in being a Black male teacher and enjoys sharing the mental and physical benefits of hot yoga with others who may have never considered it before.

For Johnson, Iso Yoga is more than just a business venture; it's about helping his community and fellow athletes. He believes that no matter one's background or athletic ability, everyone can benefit from hot yoga. And he has seen firsthand the positive impact it can have on people's lives.

As Iso Yoga continues to grow in Atlanta, Johnson remains dedicated to diversifying the yoga space and providing a new outlet for people to get active and take care of their bodies. He encourages everyone to give hot yoga a try, even if they have never done it before, because the rewards are worth it.

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