Hooked on the focus required and the heat, which hovers just below 40 degrees, he went on to do a challenge: 90 minutes of Bikram yoga every day, for 60 days.

Bikram studios often offer intense 30- and 60-day challenges to extend regular yogis beyond their weekly routine, and to a state where the challenge becomes a lifestyle commitment. Phelan credits the challenge with transforming his mind and body.

After a year of Bikram, he decided he wanted to teach. He learnt from a master in Palm Springs USA, the revered yogi Bikram Choudhury, who developed his style of 26 postures and two breathing exercises.

Phelan looks comfortable holding a lengthy pose for a photo in Yoga Tree’s Powerflow room in Elsternwick. The room is gently warmed but does not hit the traditional high of a Bikram studio – about 37–40 degrees. Even in a heatwave, Phelan has found himself accustomed to the temperature. ‘‘It’s actually easier because you’re coming into the room already warmed,’’ he says. ‘‘It’s not like walking in during the middle of winter and feeling a shock to the body.’’

Embracing yoga also led to him becoming vegan. What was more of a challenge than eliminating animal products and alcohol was having friends get used to the change.

‘‘I did have one friend who took it very personally that I wasn’t drinking any more because we used to have a few bottles of wine and then dance around the house,’’ Phelan remembers. Eventually, his friends grew used to his lifestyle and these days, Phelan doesn’t miss having a drink.

Phelan recently completed advanced training with Bikram himself on the Gold Coast. His experience was enhanced thanks to his fellow teachers’ shared passion for the practice.

Phelan shares the rewards of Bikram yoga by teaching at five clubs in Melbourne. He has taught all over the world, and encourages anyone who has never tried Bikram to give it a go.

‘‘It’s simply one pose at a time, and then you move on to the next, and we always tell first timers they can rest on the floor at any stage. Don’t over-think it – if you want to try it, just do it.’’ ■