My HAPPY place! it is a safe place filled with joy! All the teachers have unique talents and commitment in healing. I cannot imagine my life without my Chicago Hot Yoga. We have gone through transitions in the past few years and now we have a brand NEW space with showers. We are stronger together! ‍ from one proud member since September 2022 read more

I have been coming to yoga here for 2 years now and it has changed my body, mind and spirit. That probably sounds trite but it is completely true. The brand new studio space is peaceful and spacious. Yes, it's also very hot. That is part of the experience. The teachers are the best. Welcoming of all abilities, friendly, and supportive. If you let them know about a specific body issue you have such as a painful lower back, they will help you make accommodations during the poses. The poses: a series of 26 poses with two breathing exercises. Doing the same set of poses during a 90 minute class over and over sounds like it may be boring, but it is anything but boring! Each class is different, how your body feels, how your mind feels. I feel calmer and less anxious, and my body feels stronger and more capable due to my yoga practice at this studio. I highly recommend. read more

Best hot yoga studio in the city IMO. I started at the Andersonville location a couple of years ago and followed Kat and team when they relocated to new spot in Ravenswood. The classes are challenging but the instructors create a very welcoming and friendly environment for all levels. read more

Hot yoga is really helpful with reaching new limits in your practice, and the instructors are all exceptional and patient.

Love this place. The teachers are amazing I truly love the way they've helped my me improve my practice.

So let me preface this by saying that I have a moderate-severe form of social anxiety. This was my first time coming to a yoga class on my own, as part of an excise my therapist recommended. My review is as follows: the employees at this yoga studio made me feel really uncomfortable almost from the moment I arrived. I had called prior to reschedule my class and was moved to a later class. At no point was I told that this was an advanced level class. Obviously I don't have the yogi abilities to do well in a course like that. In any case, I checked in for the class and paid for a yoga mat. One of the employees asked if I was new to vinyasa and I said yes. She then replied: oh, well this is a very challenging class for beginners, good luck. I felt very judged and condescended at that moment and decided I would just go home where I felt most safe and comfortable. It's disheartening to me that this would take place at a yoga studio, a practice that is supposed to impart greater awareness and sensitivity on your life. As a woman of color, spaces like these are especially crucial to have. In summary, I have a really tough time recommending this studio to anyone. Please work on creating a more inclusive and respectful space at your studio so others don't have to experience what I did. read more

I didn't love it. As a beginner, I definitely needed to be able to hear the instructor's instructions, which wasn't possible here. It was even worse during the evening class, where the instructor had a very thick accent and spoke quickly. I spent most of my time being confused and trying to copy other people who looked like they knew what they were doing because I understood only about 5% of what she was saying. They definitely need to invest in some sort of mic. read more

Ok, back to the 2009 resolutions... "Do one month of Bikram yoga." Ahem, what exactly was I thinking with this one!? I digress. I am going to do it. And, I am going to do it at Bikram Yoga Andersonville. Perched at the northern end of Aville, parking is a cinch, and the studio is settled on the sunny second floor. (No parking in Akerdash lot, though). The carpet threw me off a bit, but I suppose it does provide a bit more traction than wood floors...awww, but how I love wood floors. The teacher was kind and friendly, and discussed the method and it's benefits. $29 beginner special: unlimited for 30 days. DO IT. Today, Day One. I nearly died. Ok, maybe not actually...but whatever influenced me to attend a yoga class in 105 degree temps fairly dehydrated at 930am without coffee (hello caffeine headache) was an evil, evil notion. Hello, Colleen...prepare. Tips for newbies: 1. Bring your own towel. Or two. (rental: $2) And mat (rental: $3) 2. BYOB: bring your own BASIN. (ok, water). (buy: $2) There are two water fountains...free refills! 3. Sit AWAY from the front mirror, or everyone will watch you as you awkwardly try to wipe away sweat from your eyeballs and twist in ways that aren't flattering. 4. They have showers. Praise the Lord. 5. It's 90 minutes. 6. It's VERY hot. Not like, "oh it's a bit on the warmish side," and more like "Ok, my muscles just got melty and it's...ehhh, humid!?" Yes. Prepare yourself. Ok, so yes...I did survive day one. On March 16th, if I am still writing reviews....I win! p.s. drink water. Like, a ton of it. Now. Don't go if you can't spare about 15 buckets of sweat to be left there... ::::glug, glug, glug:::: read more

Chicago Hot Yoga - Yoga Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I'm not sure why I haven't reviewed Be Yoga before, I've been coming here off and on for 3 years since moving to Andersonville, and since vaccinations last spring much more regularly. What an amazing place. Cat the owner has created a welcoming, loving community with teachers who meet you wherever you are in your fitness and zen journey ;) The healing power of this yoga, coupled with this incredible group of teachers is just astounding. You will love this place! read more

Truly a great yoga studio for all levels. Cat is my favorite instructor but every instructor I had was awesome. What I love: 1) clear instructions from the instructors 2) they care about every student - they always find opportunities for you to improve the posture throughout the class and do their best to remember your name starting from your first session 3) everyone is very respectful and focused 4) always start in time - I've been within 3min late to classes and I couldn't get into the practice room because the door is locked at start time, and I don't mind it because it means there won't be people entering late to the class when I'm in the class 5) a good variety of classes - even when I'm in more intermediate class the instructor always gives alternatives to a posture that I can work on I sit in front of my laptop all day long for work, and my whole body feels so much better after each practice, and it also helps relieve stress and my hearing loss has improved a lot since I started practicing. I even convinced my husband to start practicing and he enjoys it too. Highly recommended!! read more

I came here for 3 days for a yoga training with Mary Jarvis called ShapeShifting. I found the people to be extremely welcoming, friendly & hospitable. My main take away is how deeply they cherish their yoga practice here and how passionate they are to continue that commitment in & outside of the studio. The owner Cat so perfectly embodies a spirit of humility and grace that seems to mark the community. I truly wish I lived closer so I could practice here regularly. If you are in driving distance to the studio, I would say you are blessed! Matt D read more

The studio is clean, full of light and love. I am so grateful to have found such a wonderful place to practice my yoga. Cat, (the owner) I Just wanted to say thank you for all of your help and assistance and keeping me up to date! I learn so much from your classes and really enjoy them. Thanks again. read more

The instructors are nice, and it's good that they're encouraging me while my legs are shaking and it feels like maybe I've overextended myself literally and figuratively. I've done yoga a few times before-vinyasa and a yoga sculpt class which I thought gave me enough experience that I wouldn't be lost. I still was though; The place was clean bright but I still find it weird that no one else brings shower shoes-yes we take of shoes right before you even enter but I just don't like going barefoot in new strange places where new strange people sweat a lot, but I got the weird-passive aggressive 'I'm not saying anything but it's a definite no-no' look. I brought a big water bottle with me so I wouldn't dehydrate myself but it was strange that they discourage water at certain times. Granted, I was sweating profusely during the 'breathing exercises' and I reached down to get my water bottle and BAM! Verbal smack on the knuckles about not drinking water too soon because it distracts other people-I think it would be distracting if I pass out. Definite minus for me, I mean they encourage everyone to go at their own easy pace but not drink water? Weird I just don't really like the Bikram way of doing things-we do each pose twice but in between a block of poses you get supine then do it all over again-I really think that it's distracting. In order to be called Bikram you have to do the poses-in a room to exact specifications. It's hard to separate how friendly the staff and the facilities are but if the only thing you do is Bikram yoga and I don't like it then my review will reflect such. I like the idea of hot yoga but I think I'll try a non-Bikram yoga program. read more

Recently I celebrated my one year anniversary as a member of Be Yoga. It is because of my practice at Be Yoga that I am happier, healthier and more flexible than I have ever been at any point in my life. It all starts with the instructors. These professionals are incredibly motivating and inspirational--everyone from Cat, who is the heart and soul of the studio and carries forth with the inspirational teachings of Aura, Charles, Morita, Sergio, Michael, and on and on. They are the biggest reason I come back time and time again. This quaint, clean, intimate studio is truly a must for every person and every body type. I can attest as I do not have what one would consider a "yoga body," but it is because of this that come to improve flexibility, relieve stress, improve wellness and in addition to this I'm treated to all the residual benefits that come from practicing Bikrim yoga with improved blood circulation, digestion, and clarity of mind to name a few. Someone else mentioned the "no judgement zone" which is completely the truth. Additionally, this studio provides many supplemental classes beyond Bikrim such as meditation which I have taken advantage of--all making my life fuller and more enjoyable. Thank you, Be Yoga and I'm excited for my next year of practicing here! read more

Really focused room and kind fellow yogis. They have social events once in a while to build community. Yoga-related art from other students are hung. The instructors are clearly experienced and passionate about what they do. I've found myself giggling in more than one class due to a teacher's earnest mindfulness. Be Yoga has been a big part of my recovery process from nerve related injuries in my neck, back, and shoulders: gentle yet challenging work. A lot of classes offered throughout the day, so it's easy to get one in with a hectic schedule. Clean facilities! 10/10 recommend read more

I have an extremely low tolerance to heat. During the summer, anything over 75 degrees can make me testy and irritable. Constant perspiration, nausea and headaches do not help the issue either. (which is weird, right? I mean, I can eat the spiciest food known to man and all I do is crave more, but a little issue like 90 degrees can put me out of commission for days. Don't understand it!) Anyway, so my idea to build up my tolerance was to sign up for a bunch of Bikram classes. If you don't know what Bikram yoga is, it is yoga performed in a superheated room, for approximately 90 minutes. I have done Bikram before, and loved how calming and loose you felt afterwards, but I had never tried to do it on a regular basis. BYA is close to my house, so I thought it was a great idea. Problem 1): the classes are packed. So much so that even though I tried to arrange myself as far away as possible from other people, I still thought I might accidentally kick someone in the mouth. Problem 2): The carpeted floor holds on to a lot of smell. Which is to be expected since the whole purpose of the room is to have people sweating non-stop all day, but it is a shock when you first walk in, and a little hard to adjust to. I much prefer hardwood. Problem 3): The instructor (and I had several different ones) stands in one place the whole time and hollers out to people instead of going over to them and addressing them. Maybe its due to Problem 1, but it makes it hard to concentrate (especially when the name being called is YOURS and suddenly you are super self conscious and feel like all eyes are on you). Problem 4): Because of the heat-tolerance thing, I would stop frequently when I thought I was bringing on a headache or started feeling dizzy. And then my name would be called out "CAROLYNNE - DON'T KNEEL DOWN." "CAROLYNNE - DON'T STOP." "DON'T DRINK WATER". So then I would freak out and keep going just so they would leave me alone. And that caused a problem the last time I was there. I started to feel faint, and even though I stopped and knelt down, the combination of the heat and the smell just overcame me and I had to go out in the hall. Of course when I come back in do they leave me alone then? No! I can't even sneak in quietly! I get hollered at because the door to the room doesn't close all the way on its own, you have to pull it shut. Which no one ever told me. And now I feel like I just ruined the class for everyone. Ugh. I still love Bikram. Just not here. And too bad too because I still have a bunch of unused classes. But I can't leave a class more stressed out and ill than when I came in. So sorry BYA, I will search for a new place. read more

I love this studio so much. There's another Bikram studio much closer to my house, but the instructors, the facilities and the attitude at that place are unpleasant, and I much prefer to come to the Andersonville studio, see familiar faces, do yoga in a sea of tattoos and body shapes, sweat and meditation, and rainbows of mat and towel colors. I actually enjoy when we cram a few more students in the class, learn not to be distracted by the people around us, and become utterly comfortable staring at ourselves in a full-sized mirror for 90 minutes straight (on a side note, my body acceptance went through the roof after being forced to look at myself in the mirror for that long over and over. I couldn't see myself going out there in just a sports bra when I started, but it has long sunk in that all of our bodies are doing great things in that room, and we really are all fabulous in that mirror) while surrounded by sweaty strangers in hardly more than swimwear. Some of the reviewers here seem to be the most turned off by everyone else's bodies and sweat - I wonder if it might be worth striving for a bit more focus on your own body, your own postures, your breathing and meditation, rather than letting yourself be bothered by what is going on around you. But if indeed you would rather have a 10 feet safety zone around your mat, see no other people, remain unnoticed by even your instructor, and not hear, smell or feel that you are in a group workout environment, then maybe this studio is not for you. Two years after my first Bikram class here, I've recommended this studio to people left and right as they complain about the Chicago winter and not moving their bodies enough during the cold months. I think the Chicago winter and Bikram yoga were truly made for each other, and there really is nothing like stepping out from 105 degrees to 10 degrees with a glowing red face. Try to get THAT from your yoga DVD. read more

I'm almost finished with my first month of bikram, and here's the breakdown: - I am not some fit athletic person (at all), but I gave it a try and really liked it! - It's extremely challenging to stand the intense heat, and hold the awkward positions, but just push yourself and make it through the first one- it feels great afterward. - The instructor will call you out by name to encourage or correct you. She has the right mixture of niceness and toughness. - You might just surprise yourself! I've come to crave the heat a little... ew! - If you have bad knees, tell the instructor because it can be a little rough of the knees. I would go here everyday if it was closer and cheaper after the first month! read more

Jessica, Thank you for your reply. Apparently we continue to have miscommunication. My problem is not with my inability to interpret the groupon correctly (true) or your inability to make an exception (also true, and also something I didn't ask for-- I only wanted clarification on the issue). My problem was in your treatment of me at that time. Your condescending manner was rude and unnecessary. As a person who also works in a client-based field, I could never imagine speaking to someone in the way you spoke to me. I appreciate leaving your lucrative career to follow your passion. Not everyone is lucky enough to make that decision. I would think in making this choice to serve the public and thus the landlord, utility companies, the cleaners, etc, you would also treat those who financially help you with this endeavor (your clients) with respect. As far as your "sadness" that I didn't learn anything regarding your studio, we weren't even able to have that dialogue-- you cut it off before any communication could occur by dismissively calling me "hon." Audra read more

Grouponer here. This studio was a great introduction to Bikram for me and I'm hooked. I used up my groupon and if I hadn't moved to San Francisco I would absolutely sign up for the monthly auto-debit. I found all the instructors to be encouraging, nurturing, and personable. If you're hesitant to get started with Bikram because you think the class will be full of super skinny and bendy 20 somethings please think again. I saw every kind of person at the classes here from pregnant ladies, to your grandma, to a guy who probably works as santa clause during the holidays, to a Roseanne look-alike... seriously all kinds. I was really nervous and self-conscious but once I got there quickly realized everyone is too busy doing their own thang to notice your muffin top. The studio is super clean. The carpets get shampooed regularly. Of course there are lots of human smells going on but the primary scent in the classroom was usually eucalyptus. The locker rooms don't actually contain any lockers, rather, a bunch of cubbies. I personally wouldn't bring anything too valuable. The toilets, sinks, and showers were sparkling clean. Each instructor has their own style which can vary, but there were a few common themes I noticed here. They highly discourage people from drinking water during the class. This may sound crazy, but I think this is the correct way to practice Bikram. Stillness between poses is one of the hardest and most beneficial things you can learn to do. If you're drinking water, you're not breathing. If you're not breathing, you're missing the point of yoga. They also strongly discourage anyone from leaving or entering the classroom once the class has begun. So if you're late you get locked out. And if you have to pee or think you might die you WILL be told to stay in the room anyway. And you won't die ;) I'm writing this review after having been to several other bikram studios in order to have some perspective and it is really one of the best. I miss you Girlstown bikram! read more

I don't care how often they log on and say correct Bikram should be carpeted for safety and it is "medical grade." It reeks in this studio. If you're on your mat, or on one of those fancy soak-up-a-ton-of-sweat towels, you won't slip. Maybe it should be cleaned more often?? Aside from the disgusting stench in the room, the teacher in my class was like an auctioneer. She would not stop chattering. Maybe this is for the beginners in the room, but it's distracting and not even helpful. Lots of the poses did not seem like they were being held long enough either. Finally, it was too too crowded. Let less people in, provide direction, walk around and assist as necessary instead of shouting out people's names from the stage in the back. That $40 Groupon was money down the drain. And before anyone feels the need to respond, yes, I was able to meditate and rock it out regardless of these annoyances. This place was just not my cup of tea. Back to my regular studio. read more

Be sure you bring water as they don't sell it. The first day I joined ($30 for the first month) I forgot mine but assumed that I could buy water there. I was told I had to purchase a $5 aluminum water bottle & fill it with water since they're environmentally conscious & don't have water sold in plastic bottles. As much as I respect that a bikram yoga studio where the heat is set on hell should at least indicate that they don't sell water on their website; I told the gentleman at the front desk this as well & asked that he relay that to the owner. I go into class with no water but have done bikram for years & thought that if I took it easy then I'd be ok. Not smart but I accept that. There was a point where I truly felt I could use hydration. Since it's part of the practice to stay in the room in the past I've asked instructors at other studios for water when I run out & they get it quickly since a safe practice is paramount. When I asked the instructor (happened to be the owner) for a coconut water, which they do sell, she began to describe how my body doesn't really need the water... utter, complete & total nonsense. I couldn't believe that an owner she wasn't concerned about patron safety & liability. I finished the class but was incensed from that moment on. The smell didn't bother me as much & I was surprised that the carpet didn't bother me either. The classes are large & it was hard to find space where someone isn't dripping sweat on your towel. But after trying 2 classes I decided that was enough & kissed the $30 trial goodbye. Aside from the cold, unfriendly vibe of the place & lack of common sense caring, I also couldn't get past the non-stop talking in the studio. Before class begins it's a time for silence to meditate & get spiritually prepared for practice. However you choose to use that time the studio should still be silent. But people talk inside the studio as if they're out on the street. The staff instructors who are taking class with you actually talk more as if the rules don't apply to them. I've been to awesome bikram yoga studios throughout the city & Evanston & am used to a level of welcome & common sense professionalism. It's a shame to provide an unfavorable review. For those new to bikram yoga you may not have a frame of reference to judge what is somewhat standard at other studios. But for those with more experience I feel that you may not appreciate how this studio operates. And I hesitated even to write this review but after that water incident I feel others that consider Bikram Yoga Andersonville should know what they're signing up for. read more

HAWT YOGA! So I was pretty nervous before my first class...I am by no means a Yoga expert and I don't do well in extreme heat, but my workout needed a serious change-up. I loved it! The heat felt wonderful, the instruction was clear. Great attention from instructors and after about four classes I could start noticing my progress in poses. The other participants are all shapes and sizes (as a previous reviewer aptly described) and were very friendly. The class size varies, but they seem to be getting more popular so arrive early to stake your spot. The cons, I guess it can't really be a con actually, but Bikram is the same 26 poses repeated twice...fine for me as I'm starting out, but I think it would get a bit monotonous after a while. Also, the first two times I took the class the heat was perfect, then I had a couple of classes that weren't as hot. Last, the changing room is super tiny, and the classes get pretty packed so when they let out, that's a lot of sweaty nekkid women in the way (sounds seksy, right? No.) Intro month is only $29 for 31 days of unlimited classes...you cannot beat that deal! read more

So I was one of the eleventy-billion Groupon people who decided to try out Bikram Yoga. I left my reservation on the answering machine as suggested and it was ready when I arrived. I rented a mat and had a good prep convo with the teacher before the class. Positives: I liked knowing what to expect, having never done this before. The yogi told me that the only goal for newcomers is that they stay in the room the whole time (which I did, YAY!). I sweat like crazy and it largely felt good. I sweat in places I didn't know I could sweat from. In my haste to catch the 2 buses and a train 90 minutes before the class start time, I neglected to pack my sports bra. I was wearing a VS Bombshell (read: UBER-padded) bra and I actually sweat right through it. Seriously. Very awkward on the buses home. Tip: Pack an extra pair of underwear. I was pleased that I wasn't overcome by the heat or the actual yoga. I don't do yoga, am only moderately flexible and I'm sporting some extra pounds, so I was nervous that I wouldn't make it. I did feel sick a few times - this was compounded by the feet smell in the room - and dizzy another time, but I simply sat down and composed myself for a few minutes before getting back up and trying again. Negatives: I was told to leave my bag in the changing room, which doesn't have a secure space to put things like cell phones and keys and CTA cards and such. I came from a ways away and walked the last mile to get there, so I had "stuff" with me. While I'm sure the people there are only of the most well-mannered ilk, I wasn't leaving my stuff out of my sight at a new place. I brought my (small) bag in with me and set it down against the wall behind me. As previously stated, I have some extra fat on me that needs to go. I carry it on my belly and also on my thighs. I know, it's totes hot (srsly). This can sometimes mean I can't physically do 2-3 of the positions; I have too much stuff in the way. So I do what I can to try to get the stretch the yogi wants us to get. After the class, I spoke with the instructor and mentioned this to him and he encouraged me to continue to lose weight so that the positions become easier. Yes. This is why I'm here. I also offered up that when I was very spent - high heart rate and dizzy/sick and stuff - that I attempted to still partially do the stretch/position when I was sitting (arms, sides, etc.) and he was very dismissive and told me that without actually being in the pose, my stretching wasn't true Bikram Yoga, which was 1. duh, and 2. not terribly encouraging. I was trying, okay? It was my first time and I made it through the entire 90 minutes without puking or passing out and I did most of the positions. I am not feeling very motivated to come back, which is a shame. Also, not really a negative per se, but I've also noted that each of their classes is 90 minutes long, which must just be a Bikram thing, because I can't think of why else they'd all be that exact length of time. This is cool, but I would appreciate a slightly shorter class if it were possible; 90 minutes for a beginner is a long time. So, if I do go again, I will bring a mat, a beach towel, a smaller face towel, a headband, a change of underwear, a sports bra and another bra; all of that just for sweat-related purposes. I would continue to do the poses I can and just ignore any fat comments from the yogi and concentrate on my form and how I can get closer to the true position. And I'll likely avoid any class with the same instructor; branch out a little. read more

I finished up my Groupon about 2 weeks ago. During the last couple of weeks I was going more frequently and in the last week made it there everyday, which taught me that DAILY Bikram is the BEST Bikram there is. I fell in love with the poses, the heat, and the instructors at this studio and can't wait to get back into the practice. It's so tricky how the intro specials at all of the yoga studios in Chicago are uber-affordable, then rocket skywards, leaving cash-strapped would-be-yoginis like me completely broken-hearted. I just can't swing it - the monthly unlimited OR the punch cards. It's just too much. A few words: #1. If you go once and hate it, psych yourself up and go again... and again. You'll get there! None of this "my body doesn't bend that way" mumbo jumbo. Get a clear picture of the pose in your minds eye, give it your best, and slowly but surely your muscles will learn. It's amazing. You will be so proud of yourself when you master it! #2. Please don't stare. The instructor's directions and your peripheral/mirror vision should be enough to learn the poses. As the instructors mention occasionally, curiosity is natural. But as a busty little babe who looks forward to the camel pose all class, you're not fooling anyone brothers (and sisters) in the back. #3. Eat lightly or not at all in the 2-3 hours prior to the class. This was the number one issue for me. I felt dizzy and nauseous only when I was asking my body to digest on top of bending and balancing in a blazing hot room. It is terribly painful to admit this, because I love BYA and all of the amazing effects of Bikram, but I never got over the smell. Never. It would come slamming back into my face once we started the floor series and above all this just made me... well angry, and frustrated at having my euphoria so brutally interrupted. I feel committed to this studio, but were I to be looking for a studio in Chicago I might try the other Clark St. Bikram establishment to see if its wooden floors offered my nose some reprieve. I understand BYA is working to keep us safe by reducing slippage, but it's intense. read more

It's been two years since my body endured the heat... My wife and I are making our way back to Bikram.. After two years we can still remember the benefits that Bikram gave our bodies. For one you burn a dump truck load of calories and sweat/detox like you never have sweat in your life! So, we are making our way back and while we are only beginners it wont take long to see results! I like Bikram Yoga Andersonville, they are very nice in getting you setup. Compared to the past studios I have been to, I found this one nice and relaxing. The teacher is very nice and unlike past places lets you go at your own pace while giving you a few pointers here and there. The only issue I have is your in class with all that hot heat and sweat but standing in a carpeted room. It took me a bit to get over that but would sometimes snap me out of my concentration when there's a mystery hair on my hand. It's not that bad and if you have a large mat and I suggest a large towel (or even beach towel) then you will be fine. We signed up for a 30 day beginner pass.. I will be blogging about my journey on our Bikram path at jamescrook.com read more

Preface: this review, like all my Bikram studio reviews, is of the studio and not the Bikram yoga style in general. First off, they got rid of the carpeted floor mentioned by previous reviewers. Personally I prefer carpet in Bikram studios, but I don't blame the owner for the change. So many negative reviews (this goes for all the carpeted studios) are fixated on the carpeted floor. The floor is hardwood (or some kind of faux-hardwood) now, and the smell some have complained about is nonexistent. The instruction is by-the-book Bikram with a bit of a twist. The lineage here comes from Mary Jarvis (who owns Global Yoga in San Francisco). There are three or four very minor differences in the practice, but these pertain mostly to the posture setup and not the poses themselves. If you frequent other studios you may be thrown off for a second, but again, these changes are minor (such as raising your arm first before Standing Bow and not using the towel over your heels in Rabbit). Actually, these moments are good opportunities to get out of your head and let go of anticipation! BYA also has a culture of not announcing a "first official water break" and many (most?) regular students don't bring water into the room at all. However, no one is going to stop you if you choose to take water (at least not after Eagle Pose). I should mention that they don't sell bottled water either (just reusable bottles). Overall this is a very clean studio with consistent instruction. It's very no-nonsense; you don't really get the wisecracking teachers or the playful energy you (occasionally) get at the Bikram Yoga Chicago studios. Which is fine. The changerooms are clean if a bit narrow and can get crowded. Deducting a star only because the temperature can be inconsistent and sometimes the room doesn't seem to be hot enough. I'm a big fan of a consistent 105F 40%, as hard as that is to achieve, so I've occasionally left BYA a tad unsatisfied. read more

It's like that first date when you realize: let's just be friends. I have been going to BYA on and off for over 2 years now. I am certainly not a "Bikram lifer" by any means - but I've seen this studio when it's slow, through the Groupon effect, and now. I've also been to other Chicago studios and am basing my rating on my overall experiences. Good: - Yoga teachers such as Beth make the class enjoyable. I've made it a point to sign up for classes where the teacher reminds you to "relax. Your day was stressful enough. Smile and have fun." Thanks Beth! - The studio is clean enough and easy to navigate. People are generally friendly to each other. - It's Bikram. Poses, breathing, the works. Jessica has kept it authentic right down to the carpet. Parts to improve: - With the groupon effect, the room has become really noisy during pre-class meditation. Surprisingly, it's the teachers and old-timers who are casually talking up a storm. Kinda not cool if you are coming to meditate. - Sometimes the staff is a bit... icy? After a few months of going, you would think that you might strike up a small conversation. It hasn't happened for me. I go to Cheetah and am warmly greeted at the front desk. Kinda starts to feel click-y... at a Yoga studio of all places. Not a big deal, but...could really turn some people off. - I've watched new people really struggle in class. A 5 minute pre-class walkthrough might really lessen the intimidation. BYA is not alone on this issue - all Bikram studios I've been to "dive in" without warning. For the price, I'm not sure if I'm going to continue going to BYA. Maybe once in a while - especially on their slower days! read more

I tried this studio last year on a whim because a friend gave me a groupon for a three month trial. I've never been into yoga, but this studio got me hooked on Bikram! This is back even when they had the carpeted studio. I really like the uncarpeted floor so much more. I've been visiting other studios now (who can pass up those $39 a month deals???) due to my very limited finances and still, Andersonville is my favorite studio. I go there for a treat or when friends want to try it out- I take them here. I like the community feel, they seem like they really care/ are authentic - rather than more commercial, there are three pretty nice showers and the people in the class are varied in size, ages and abilities. I feel comfortable in this studio and I'm not much into the gym or athletics. Though if you are a beginner it is important to know that any Bikram yoga is super intense...it's gonna be hard and take time to learn the poses! I really love Bikram yoga in general. It's helped me maintain my weight and helps me keep my sanity. It's pure bonus that the people are so supportive and seemingly good to the core. read more

I'm a Yoga newbie....I tried it once in college, and I just felt it lacked the intensity that I desire while working out, I'm just not very good at the meditating thing. So I gave Bikram a chance, and so far, its freaking awesome. The room is very hot. Maybe in the beginning they were having difficulty keeping the room warm, but not anymore. The second I step foot into the classroom, I begin to sweat. You spend the first 10 minutes before class begins just getting used to the heat and relaxing. This is a necessary step I've found, as the heat can be so extreme that I need the time to adjust. Once the standing exercises begin, I am in full sweat mode. Honestly, I've never sweat so much in my life. The first few sessions were extremely hard. Moving my body in ways that it just was not used to. I was awkward and unbalanced. While I'm no guru, only a few sessions later, I am much improved, and am now "getting this" Bikram stuff. The facilities are great, the teacher's are wonderful and patient. But the very best part about Bikram is the way you feel after class. Give it about 30 minutes and a shower and the rush of endorphins just makes you feel GOOD. When I go to Yoga, I don't feel sleepy in the afternoons like I usually do, my face has some color, and I just feel better. I used to think this stuff was just bogus, but I've become a believer in Bikram. Last bright spot. After only a few sessions, I've noticed a visible difference in my body. I've lost inches on my waist and hips, and that's truly a great reward for enduring 90 minutes of extremely hot yoga a few times per week. After a day or two off, I'm itching to return to Yoga to get those endorphins and good feelings pumping again. I like this drug. read more

This studio far exceeded my expectations from day one. It is VERY clean and well-maintained. But, the instruction and overall service is why it will be very difficult to ever go anywhere else for hot yoga (and, get the same experience)! It is apparent how devoted and passionate the instructors are. Not only about their practice, but for one another and the clients, as well. While BE Yoga May be a bit of a trek depending on your location, it would be absolutely worthwhile to give it a month (at very least) to not only take advantage of the phenomenal Intro special, but to experience top notch service and be introduced to some of the best of the best instructors! Special shout out to the studio owner, Kat, for always being so warm and inviting. She epitomizes a genuine soul, and her studio and staff take on that same energy! If you have been looking to find balance and for the right studio please stop in for a class, and see for yourself! read more

I am sourly disappointed in this center. I don't even know where to begin. 1-I have been to other Bikram centers and they don't use carpeting they are clean and don't smell as this one does. Body odor from sweat is soaked in this carpet. It is so uncomfortable in the smell that permeates throughout. Most people complain about this but they never address. 2-Not clean 3-Not once was I or a friend told that once we started to use the Groupon coupon that we had 3 months to use. Groupon said that we had a year to use the coupons I paid for. Personal life got in my way and when we showed up to continue my classes (after I tried to email questions) we were told to pay I looked though all my papers never found this clause or I never would have gone since it's so smelly. 4-Try getting a response when you call never return calls everything must be done by emails and automated response. which is fine but if you have further questions who do you talk to? So when I had more questions please come in is what the emails say. 4-First time I showed up a half hour early as they ask they never greeted me they handed me a sheet and said fill this out when I filled out never said thank you, never showed me around I had to ask where everything was and they did not even do this the other guests showed me and helped me. I will never go back!!!!!!!!!!!! OM on Range hear I come! read more

So to preface, I LOVE Bikram and I have been going to the Wicker Park studio for a few years now. Andersonville is far for me, but the Living Social deal was too good to pass up. Okay, good points: -There are showers. I haven't actually used them, but it's nice to have that option. -There is free parking. Not a lot of spaces but if you get there early enough, it's a great plus. -The teachers are very nice and they seem to like to get to know everyone's name which is great. I got some really good corrections from a couple of them. -The Living Social Deal is amazing. All and all for the money I paid to do the classes here, I am happy about it overall. If I was paying full price though, I'd be pissed.... And here are my issues: -The carpet. Okay, so I've read some things about "medical grade", and I don't know exactly what that means, but I'm thoroughly grossed out by it. I mean they cannot possibly clean it regularly. I know the whole Bikram thing but no studios follow everything says. If there are concerns about safety, there are other types of flooring that are "padded" but also easy to clean. Finally, the smell...OMG. Every studio smells, no doubt but this is just sickening. -It seems like they don't do enough to explain everything to the new students. Not just poses but etiquette too. This really bugs me because etiquette is an important part. - There are people in classes that are not doing what they should be, i.e. they are doing different poses than they are supposed to be and/or doing poses during savasana. I think that they maybe teachers in training or whatever, but it's rude and distracting and the teacher could at least explain what's going on if this is the case. -There also seems to be a general vibe here that irks me. Can't put my finger on it. Not putting blame on them for this one but it doesn't help the situation. read more

I guess I had a hard time getting over the feet smell. I had been to bikram classes at the studio on milwaukee and loved that they had wood floors there. Why would you carpet the studio where everyone sweats buckets? The teacher was good and the staff were friendly and helpful. I might go a few more times to get good use out of my groupon but I think that will be it. I just can't get the image of excessive sweat dripping off the guy in front of me right into the carpet out of my head. Eckkk! read more

Consider this as one perspective from a squishy, Bikram continual newbie. I have attended classes at BYA off and on (needs to be more on than the current off) for around year. While it takes me weeks to mental prepare my self to return after a hiatus (or what my friends refer to as mental clarity :) ), the benefits far outweigh any negatives. 1) Bikram is about you - when I worry about what I am doing, the other people in the room fade away. Do you sometimes have to moves around someone else's behind - sure! Do you on occasion have to adjust where you are in relation to the people around you - sure! Are these both everyday occurrences in a city this size - yep! So, good practice for CTA, any festival (which always have sweaty folks bumping into you most of whom do not have clean Bikram sweat!), general day-to-day life! 2) I find the small class sizes to be great for paying attention to what I need to do as I can se the mirror (which is not that flattering, although it becomes more so the more I attend) and the large class sizes have such an amazing energy (and no, I am not a crystal-carrying, aura-seeing individual, although it might be fun) and they provide a odd (as in unexpected) sense of community. Group survival, I guess! 3) Yes, the carpet has an interesting smell, but so does everything in Chicago. And the more you are in the room, the less you smell it. Having fallen out of every position, including those on the floor, I appreciate the carpet! 4) The instructors are instructors. Your perception of how they respond to you is what you control. Have I felt out of place when I get there? Sure, I have. Have there been times I have thought of crawling past the desk to escape to avoid their gaze after class? Just about every time! These are my perceptions of their thoughts and my own sense of what I should be able to do in relation to what I am doing. The instructors have never been anything but supportive, encouraging and helpful. They learn your name quickly, offer advice and provide encouragement (even when you are trying to hide in the corner). The different personalities and instruction styles mean that there is always someone who "fits." I like knowing which one will make me laugh throughout class and which one will make walking the next day a near impossibility! All that being typed, I am gearing up to return to BYA this week - it takes me few days, like a bad penny yoga student! I will be nauseous, light-headed, fall out of poses, sit down when I should be standing, pray for the floor series, try and smile through camel, never want to get out of the rabbit or half tortoise poses and question my sanity for 90 minutes. In return, I will sleep better, feel calmer, have more energy, and know that for 90 minutes of my day, I did something for myself so I can continue to give to others. read more

At this studio, I tried bikram for the first time in the beginning of March with the intro special ($30 for 30 days). First of all, it's a great deal and even if I only tried two classes this month, it would pay itself off. The staff here are wonderful and friendly. They seem to remember everyone's name and faces. They give helpful advice or encouragement during the class. They also take note of all the progress you've made after several classes, which is just awesome to get that kind of reassurance. After eight classes, I'm finally getting the hang of it! I also really like the studio itself - the locker rooms and facilities are much nicer than I would have expected. I am so appreciative that I can shower after bikram before slipping into dry clothes. There is another bikram studio closer to my apartment (I just realized that the other day), but I already feel loyal to this studio and its staff. read more

I started attending Bikram Yoga in March of 2010 at Bikram Yoga Chicago in Lincoln Park. From the beginning, I loved everything about it - the sweat, the heat, the regimented poses, and the wonderful feeling of accomplishment every time I lived through another class. When I moved to Rogers Park last August, I didn't have a feasible way of getting to that studio in a way that wouldn't waste hours of my day, so I decided to stop going. Big mistake, but one I carried on with for far too long. I've slowly gained weight, felt my reoccurring lower back pain creeping back into my life, and just lost some of the luster in general. At first I was a little apprehensive to try out Bikram Yoga Andersonville, thinking that my first good experiences might have been a fluke, and now that I have a car, maybe parking would be impossible and I'd just get more stressed out, or maybe my classmates wouldn't like me (etc., etc. - I'm a worrier). Bottom line, I was scared to go back to Bikram at a brand new establishment, but I shouldn't have been. I'm still getting used to the carpet, and the fact that there's only one studio, and that there's nowhere to clean your mat off after class. However, in all of the right ways, it's the same old Bikram Yoga that I grew to love, and am loving once again. My body is already feeling stronger, and there's still nothing like working up a good sweat. I also like that the teachers are very kind, and already know my name even though I just started a couple of weeks ago. Oh, and parking's free off of Clark Street, so that was a silly worry to have. read more

I knocked it down a star from my previous review because of the overcrowding from Groupon/Living Social. The classes are still quality, but I'm not a strong enough yogi to ignore the other 47 people sweating in the room with you. I also felt pressured to show up to class 25 minutes early to stake out and claim a spot on the floor, something that could be difficult for people with more time-restrictive schedules. There's still love for this studio, but I'm going to wait for the overcrowding to die down. read more

I signed up for yelp to write this review. I bought the groupon deal a few months back, which was a GREAT deal and was so disappointed that I only used one class. It was so crowded at the class that I attended that there was not enough room to do the poses. I literally could not hold my arms out in any direction without touching another person. I left before the class was over. All this place needs to do is place a limit on class sizes and it would be fine. But it doesn't. read more

I took several classes here and it is alright. I have had much better results in other yoga classes. What do I love about the class and establishment? The fact that the yoga class is extremely toasty. There is nothing better than sweating out a few pounds and feeling like you got all the demons out! What else do I love about the experience? The instructors. They pay attention to each student and offer additional poses for individual who may not be able to partake in a particular pose. What do I particularly not enjoy? The fact that some of the classes are overcrowded and you run the risk of touching someone who is as sweaty as you are. What else is not my favorite? The rug. I realize a bare floor runs the risk of many human accidents, due to the possible slippery floors, but I just cannot get out the vision of all the sweat soaked up in the rug on a daily basis. Great way to find one's "center", but just not for me. read more