09/08/08

Best yoga studios in New York

by K3vin

Bikram NYC provides proficient and altruistic yoga instructors that are available to teach in 4 different locations every 2 hours starting at like 6 am - so there is a time, a place, and an instructor for everyone. Instructors are human and therefore have individual personalities, so to expect that you will like every instructor equally is probably not realistic but there is no group of instructors more concerned for the well-being of others anywhere in Manhattan. Regular members reflect the optimistic and encouraging personalities that have been shaped and reinforced by consistent practicing.

As a beginning student, I am reminded by instructors that there are no expectations placed on a student to advance at a certain pace, yoga is a process that takes many years, not months, and therefore progress is not made immediately. Be honest with yourself, properly do whatever you are able to in class, come consistently and regardless of your baseline body shape, metabolism or athletic ability and self-improvement is inevitable.

• Pros: Ability to use any of the 4 studios anytime. Thoughtful staff and members.
• Cons: None

07/22/08

Amazing, most of the time

by nolagirl06

I had never done yoga before and was extremely skeptical about the benefits. My first class at Bikram was the first-timers class and it was wonderful. The instructor was very encouraging and informative, as well as truly calming. I loved it instantly and decided to go back. My second class, however, was less than great. The instructor knew it was my second time and was rude about my lack of skill. She told me I "had a lot to live up to" at the beginning of the class and continued to pick on me throughout (and not in a constructive manner). The entire class was nerve-wracking and I was unable to focus. I'm sure this was just a fluke, but my advice is definitely try it but come with a thick skin and be wary of the instructor. A bad one will ruin your experience.

• Pros: Lovely staff, clean environment, friendly network of students
• Cons: Potentially discouraging instructor

09/07/06

amazing

by Chapaev

Great yoga for anyone willing to challenge themselves. The review below about "disgusting" men wearing skimpy shorts is just too ridiculous for words..its a 105 degrees in the room, they are supposed to wear what exactly? Yoga is not really the place for puritan values..

Overall, depending on the instrucutor, of course..it's an amazing experience.

• Pros: great exercise