Going to the lab for twice a week For nine months Amazing training Creative Strong community Highly recommend read more

Lovely studio and space. Chris, the owner, gave a fabulous class! I love his variety and sequencing. He included deep stretches, mobility exercises and opportunities to incorporate more advanced postures. Piper, his small dog, was a perfect addition to the class. She greets you with affection and love and hangs out quietly during the class. There was plenty of space even with a fairly full class. I highly recommend this studio! read more

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I tried out The Lab with ClassPass and had an hour-long All Levels class with Carrie (apologize if wrong spelling!). She was fantastic. There were plenty of modifications for us along the way, and everyone at the studio was very friendly and welcoming. Great place! read more

The Lab - Yoga Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The Lab Yoga on Racine in Chicago hosted an amazing Ecstatic Dance event on Saturday and it went beautifully. The space is gorgeous, clean, spacious, and has so many amenities for a yoga studio, including a kitchen, locker area and a lounge space with comfy couches for chatting. The dance event lasted 4 hours, and was absolutely amazing. The studio is located up two flights of steps and I didn't see an elevator- but I'd suggest calling first as there may well be one, and I just I didn't see it. So if you have a mobility impairment and can't manage stairs, that might be a concern- just call first. Free street parking was available. Great experience. read more

The Lab - Yoga Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I took a class here with Wade as the instructor and it was amazing! He is one of the best instructors I have ever had and if you're able to schedule a class with him, I would highly recommend it. The class I took was a longer format than I'm used to but it was nice because we spent the first third of class checking in with our energy centers and opening things up and taking our time which is a really nice way to begin class on a Saturday morning. The flow was also very nice and I appreciate being offered modifications and options for someone like me who is a more of a beginner. The space is also very warm and unique and you can really feel the sense of community and familial atmosphere when you enter the space. Mats and blocks are provided and everyone was really warm and welcoming. I would definitely come back not just for the instruction and quality of the class, but also for the ambience and how I grounded and centered I felt after class. If you're able to book a class at the Lab and especially with Wade, don't miss out on this opportunity! read more

The Lab - Yoga Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

If you are looking for an inclusive yoga studio with teachers who care about their students, this is the place. I had a major health setback in 2021 and multiple surgeries and while I had done yoga on and off for about 10 years and I knew it could be good for me, I was afraid because of some bad experiences where my limitations were not taken into consideration and teachers pushed too hard. A friend told me about this place and suggested I reach directly out to the owner, Chris. He was incredibly thoughtful and attentive on our phone call and helped me decide which classes were a good fit. Over the last few months, every teacher I've taken a class with (Wade, Joanne, Ingrid, Mina) has been beyond supportive and inspiring. There is something truly special about the little community that The Lab has created and I would recommend this spot to anyone, regardless of where they're at in their yoga journey. ps: shoutout to Piper and her wheaten greetins'. read more

What a beautiful studio and community. I started attending upon the move to Grand Ave, and was welcomed immediately. My wellness routines were thrown off during Covid, and I needed to get back on track. Not to mention I was preparing for my first Chicago winter in 15 years. This studio was the perfect fit. The more classes I attended the better I felt personally, and the more I felt at home with the wonderful community practicing yoga here. Chris and Wade are experts at their craft and I highly recommend you attend a few classes to learn for yourself. read more

A very friendly yoga studio. They helped me to modify some poses due to chronic injuries which have prevented me from doing much yoga in the past. After coming to classes I could touch my toes and I haven't been able to do that for at least several years ! read more

This studio became my sanctuary during a time I needed strengthening and building my practice back after a long-term illness. The vibe is somewhat playful and the space in gorgeous. The owner really knows how to run a studio, something that is not common in Chicago. I have been practicing for over 20 years and have studied almost everywhere in Chicago. The classes here are consistently taught from a place of skillful anatomy that will please advanced practitioners and delight a new-comer in its depth. An intermediate yoga student will feel comfortable and challenged. But all levels will leave class feeling great about their time on the mat. I am so grateful for this studio. read more

My wife and I moved to Chicago for work last June. Although we only lived there for a year, finding The Lab was one of the highlights. Chris and team are amazing. Their teachings really helped to invigorate our yoga practices, and challenged us to be better. The studio feels like home in what we thought was the best neighborhood in the city, which is why we called West Loop our home, too. Whether you are a Chicagoan or a visitor, make it a point to take class here. read more

Ok, this yoga class/studio is tough as shit, seriously. If you are looking for a zenny bliss trip via some gentle breathing and stretching, trust me...you do not want to try the Lab. I say this in a very nice way. It's a fantastic workout. Carmen is a dynamo. And a pretzel of lean muscle and charisma. She's a babe. She's the main instructor, and she'll whip your wannabe-yogi-ass into shape. Ain't no room for complainers up in here! The best way I can describe it is 45-50 minutes of cardio where you don't really move much from your stationary spot. Heart rate is up! Calories are burned. Muscles are stretched! The room is warm, so sweat will be a part of this. Word to the wise. Bring a towel. Dress lightly. The studio itself is bright, clean and spacious, and on the third floor. Over a guitar repair shop, which does present some sound issues, but again...this is not a bliss trip, so you'll adjust. The man at the desk was gracious and helpful. Lockers are available, as are restrooms. The Lab also contains a Tango studio. Something worth checking into, foxy people. Parking in the area can be not-so-great depending on time of day (night s/weekends are actually better. Currently there is construction on Lake, but if you don't mind walking a few blocks, easier parking can be found on Washington. The Ashland green line is the closest el stop. The schedule is pretty limited, but the classes pack a punch...if you can make it at the designated times. Don't be fooled by "level 1" as this is not really a beginner type studio. It's a great spot, but if you've never done yoga before...I suggest brushing up elsewhere. THEN, come here. And I've used 1/5 of my class pack. Who's going back with me? I really need a dose of Carmen in my life. You might, too. read more

First off I want to say that this space is gorgeous, staff was super nice, marketing is amazing, and the intentions here are good. My main issue with this studio is the bad sequencing which they have named " CYoga". My friend ( who is a yoga teacher) and I got a free week each here , we took two classes with Carmen and decided not to go back and finish our week. The first class started in back bends and the second class started with getting into scorpion! Thank god I have 15 years of yoga experience otherwise I would have ended up with in injury, which incidentally my friend did. You NEVER start class with a pose in which your not warm and open enough to get in to. Half way through the second class I glanced over and saw a guy doing a head stand along the wall, however he was resting on his face... HIS FACE! This was funny at the time but I can imagine the neck pain that resulted from that. I am all for pushing your self, level 3 classes are my thing. I had an ashtanga teacher use to push and pull us into poses which is awesome once your warmed up. I have no problem with not flowing or doing sun salutations which are also absent at the Lab. My issue is that CYoga is just bad, the sequencing of a class is so important! Traditional yoga which is thousands of years old has a very specific course , Meddling with it can be both good and bad, but with CYoga it's bad. Sorry to say so but the Lab is an experiment gone bad. read more

I should preface my review... If you're someone who enjoys meditative, restorative, or vinyasa styled classes, this probably isn't going to be the place for you. The Lab is about deepening, strengthening, and improving your practice through hard work and dedication. This isn't one of those studios who's going to encourage you to take breaks and lay in child's pose... and I am SO thankful for that. Too many times have I been in yoga classes where I feel people don't take the full advantage to get something out of the class. That being said, yes, of course listen to your body, but don't give in at the slightest bit of challenge. I'm not trying to scare anyone away - The Lab is NOT intimidating by any means. If you're considering taking a class here, learn from my mistake, and start at a level 1. This will ease you into the CYoga sequence and you'll be doing level 1-2 classes in no time! The Lab is a yoga studio who gets that yoga doesn't just have to be about sun salutations... THANK YOU BABY JESUS! I have tried SO many yoga studios and they're all the same boring routine. Class after class of sun salutations and I felt like my practice had hit a plateau. That will NEVER happen here. You're going to constantly be challenged and you're going to sweat. I just wrapped up my 6 month unlimited package and I want to tell you about the experience... First, the studio is beautiful and the artwork was created by one of the teachers at the studio, how cool is that? You will feel a nice, relaxed vibe and meet many friendly people. Out of all the places I have been, this is one studio I can say that I have been able to easily make friends. Second, you WILL improve your practice with each class. You will get into poses you never thought possible, and you will have fun doing it. If you're someone like me, someone who's always enjoyed yoga, but had a hard time with the meditative part and wanted more, you'll get that! If you're looking for a studio that is going to give you options on arm balances, inversions, and more difficult poses than down dog and crow - look no further. If you also do yoga to improve your health and body, you will see results. I have never felt as in good of shape as I have these past 6 months of 2-3 classes a week. Don't be afraid to ask questions. The teachers at the studio are all very educated on the practice and make the best adjustments I have ever had. I never realized how many poses I had been doing wrong until I came here and teachers actually helped me into the pose rather than just watch me do it wrong from the front of the room. I feel The Lab is also one of the few studios who has created its own community, and wants more people to join. You don't have to come into the studio, keep to yourself, go to class, and then leave. This is a studio that really encourages getting to know one another and being real. I encourage people to give The Lab a shot. You may fall in love just as I did. read more

I hated yoga at one point. Not into the schtick . Rodney Yee walking around in his underpants and instructors who talked like the Delicious dish ladies and Mr. Schweddy's balls on SNL. But I decided to give it one more try after a friend mentioned that she loved it and I watched Carmen Aguilar's videos on their website. I was so inspired with her handstands and balances that I took a class. Carmen's yoga class was exactly what I was looking for! Non-wussy, non-new agey yoga where I'm not rolling my eyes when the instructor is talking and people wear deodorant. The moves are intense so you need to focus otherwise you're going to fall on top of the person next to you or behind you. I mean the mats are only about a foot apart. I also like the class structure where you're working on two main goals in each class. You basically do poses that flow into one another and lead up to an arm balance in the middle and then a handstand toward the end of class. After enough practice, it seems that you should be able to do infinite variations of these two things. One of my life goals is to do a handstand and I had to stop taking hand-balancing and contortion circus classes because they're way more expensive at Aloft or the Actor's Gym. I can basically learn too do a handstand for less here, and I actually think I have a better chance getting into one because we're not trying to cram a ton of other stuff like acrobatics into one class. Not yet anyway. Maybe that's Level 2... read more

The Lab is my second home, and I absolutely adore the teachers. I'll do my best to explain why. Chris the owner has put in the work and the time to build a warm, beautiful space. The teachers see your potential and will challenge your practice to the next level. Expect to work: see your practice evolve. In October your first class is $10 so come out and play. You won't regret it! read more

The Lab has turned me into a yogi! I am an endurance runner and was always extremely skeptical about yoga. I had tried a few classes over the years but found myself thinking "I could be running! This is a waste of time." Not at The Lab with cYoga. When I attended my first yoga class at the The Lab, I was a bit hesitant because it was a Level 1/2 but I really wanted to push myself and take advantage of the class. It was difficult, but one of the best classes I have ever taken. I love starting my day with the 5:45am class with Nick. It's a little on the smaller side, so you get a lot of individualized instruction. Don't worry...there are a number of other class times if that is too early! Since going to The Lab, I tried two other studios but I have not found a style of yoga or studio that allows me to feel like I am getting both an energizing experience and a challenging work-out. cYoga classes are more difficult than others I've tried but I think The Lab's website really nails it when they say that the teachers and classes are approachable and enjoyable for everybody. The instructors help adjust students to get into more challenging poses and designs the sequence depending on the theme of the class and the level of the students. I highly recommend The Lab for beginnings and newbies who are looking for a challenging and rewarding class. Other details: Location is a bit off my path but it's accessible via the Halsted bus, Green Line, and parking is plentiful in the West Loop. Well worth the trip out of the way for me. read more

I am a newcomer to yoga and really didn't think you would sweat much in an ordinary yoga class. Boy was I WRONG! I never really understood what people meant when you have to find your "studio" and instructor. Now, I get it. Carmen is AMAZING. First, I love that she is personable, friendly, and learns our name. Second, Carmen's teaching style really works. The day classes are much smaller and there is more one-on-one attention and adjustments. Every class is different too. I keep coming back because of her. Carmen is challenging and really pushes you - there is no slacking off or you'll get called out. For instance, in my first class EVER she assisted me (the klutz with no balance) in a shoulder stand and today I did it on my own (albeit against the wall)! She brings out very advanced positions but she slowly gets you working into them (even if, for me, it is not very far). Yet, Carmen knows when I need some modifications and offers ways for me to improve. I have only been going there for about six weeks (averaging 1/wk) and I can see improvement. As a side note, I also tried the Intro to Ashtanga classes with another instructor, but it felt a bit too advanced for me and I didn't click as much with the other instructor's style. However, this is moot since the schedule is changing and there will be different instructors in a few weeks. The facilities are very nice from the bathrooms to the changing area to the lockers. She has yoga mats that are available as well as some straps and blocks. Her prices are very reasonable and probably the best the area. This is important for a between-jobs kind of gal who doesn't really want to be a "studio whore" but whose wallet also has a say in where to go. TIP: I have heard the evening classes can get very busy so be sure to arrive with enough time. TIP: Bring a small towel. You will need it! read more

This place is not ideal for students that aren't willing to challenge themselves! I've been practicing multiple types of yoga for almost ten years and it wasn't until these last couple weeks at The Lab that I've seen major growth in my physical and mental yoga practice. The space is beautiful and there are no mirrors which helps diminish the competition and allows you to focus on yourself. During the day the studios retain a beautiful light through the glass windows. Class prices are affordable; new students get a month unlimited for $50! The co-owner, Moises, allowed me to take class then decide which package to purchase. After that first class (a level 1-2 in which we did forearm and handstand) I was hooked! I've taken class from five different teachers in the last two weeks and each time I've learned something new about my practice! The teachers build creative, yet challenging sequences that work to a peak pose (ex: back bending, twisting, balancing). They also go around and help each individual student which leaves time for the students to learn from the teacher and then continue to work towards a goal. As an avid cyclist (even during the winter) this place has helped to loosen me up. When I fell off of my bike Soren, John & Sonora all helped with modified poses during their classes so I could still practice during my recovery. If you aren't willing to try, this place is not for you! If you are looking for a challenge or a way to deepen your practice, check out The Lab! read more

Prior to The Lab, I had done yoga here and there but I was never comfortable in 110 degree rooms (you won't find this at The Lab-but you will sweat!) and was never motivated by the same sun salutations over and over again. I first visited The Lab about a year ago and came with the intention of unwinding after a hard week. I didn't realize I'd be seriously challenged and enjoy it at the same time (with some unwinding too!). I was never a fan of those "Cross Fit" type places that challenged you to the point that you could never get convince yourself to go back to a class. Somehow The Lab has challenged me and has kept me coming back for more! I flew through my first 10 pack of classes at The Lab, I was amazed that every class was different, even with the same teachers! The classes are set up in a way to optimize your warm up for a peak pose. I've found that I've been actually been able to achieve some of these peak poses because I've actually been warmed up in the right way as opposed to rushing into it. The teachers adjustments are thoughtful, careful and truly help you achieve the pose.The classes generally follow the format of a flexibility warm up, a standing sequence and wall work but every single class is so different. In the past year (2-4 classes a week) yoga kept me motivated to be active during our brutal Chicago winter and just to be healthier overall. John's Level 1 class was a great introduction to The Lab (however I can honestly say I've enjoyed every single teacher I've taken a class with!) Prior to The Lab, I wasn't strong enough to do crow and didn't think I'd ever be strong enough for it . Over the past year, I've most importantly built strength and gained the confidence to continue building upon it. I find that my posture has improved, my hips and shoulders are more open and my light snoring has completely disappeared. Definitely recommend this place to anyone! read more

Great spot. Bought a YouSwoop to try out the classes and really enjoyed the proximity to transport and all the amenities they offer. Instructors were quite interactive and good motivators. Check it out when they're on YouSwoop or well worth the very reasonable prices they already offer. read more

Mastered sun salutations, triangle poses, and the wheel? Come here and practice your handstands, scorpion pose, and side crow with scissor legs. This studio is more challenging than most, which is nice for a yogi like me who would like to keep growing. Another difference: people here are pretty chatty. Most yoga studios are eerily quiet and calm before class starts, be it authentic or not, but The Lab etiquette seems less formal and people talk all up in the studio right until class starts. I'll admit, I'm still getting used to that. The Lab seems less about the whole spiritual peace thing and more about the physical practice. While I do appreciate some meditation in my life (I will keep going to my regular spot too), it's nice to have an athletic alternative like The Lab. read more

Thinking of trying yoga for the first time? Think no more! I recently attended a class taught by Soren B. She is amazing! I told her that I have been having some knee and lower back problems and her class seemed to suit my needs. She takes her time and does not rush her students. I did not feel singled out if I could not do the pose, she would always come by and help me. I will be back for more and look forward to attending her classes on a weekly basis. read more

Carmen Aguilar is the best yoga teacher in Chicago. Period. One class with her is worth months with other teachers. Prior to The Lab, I had gotten stale in my yoga practice going to the same Vinyasa classes offered by every other studio in the city: tons of sun salutations, leg poses, and poetry reading fluff. Not in Carmen's classes. She will have you in advanced poses by minute 20 that require tons of ab and arm strength, and the best part is, EVERYONE will be in them. She does not discrimate between veteran or beginner (as some of the studios around here do). She treats everyone the same: making time to assist every student, learning newbies' names, providing personalized tips, and pushing everyone to reach their max. I am always so amazed with what I've been able to accomplish when I walk out the door. The studio itself is also just an amazing space to practice in. It's located in a beautiful West Loop loft: high celings, bright, airy, plenty of clean mats, changing rooms and bathrooms. It's one of those spaces that you know has good energy, and a place you feel comfortable returning to again and again. You really have to check this place out: There is simply nothing else like it in Chicago. My only complaint is that it didn't open sooner. :) read more

Yoga for true yoginis... The classes at The Lab are not for the faint of heart! Expect a challenging hour that will push you beyond your normal vinyasa yoga class. The Lab incorporates many arm balances, hip openers, inversions--basically anything that will make you push yourself! Also, The Lab, pioneering "C-yoga" is an interesting concept that doesn't include sun salutations. I went to 5 classes at The Lab and never once did a sun salutation. Usually I would miss the flowing-ness of it yet the instructors do a nice job of making the class interesting and organic. The other difference between The Lab and other yoga studios is the individual showcasing. During arm balances the instructor will walk around to each person and ask them to demonstrate. At first this can be a bit intimidating, but it also pushes you to go beyond your limits. There were times when I declined to "showcase," however. And that's okay too. I would recommend The Lab to anyone that wants a serious yoga practice, and isn't afraid to be pushed. read more

If you're serious about growing your yoga practice, you'll be hard pressed to find a studio better than The Lab. Over the last 10 years, I found myself in and out of yoga studios while training for endurance running events. I grew bored with the constant repetition of flow classes or long periods of meditation at other studios. I had convinced myself that yoga just wasn't for me - That is, until a friend introduced me to The Lab. Be prepared to throw out everything you thought you knew about a yoga class before your first class. Keep an open mind and don't allow yourself to be intimidated by cyoga (cause it's pretty amazing!). Unlike other studio's teachers who rush through a sequence, instructors at The Lab take the time to assist each student helping them push their limits, to build strength, increase flexibility and achieve success - from arm balances to inversions. I've been taking classes as the Lab between 1-4x a week for the last year. In that time, I've been able to overcome stress-related issues (headaches, neck pain, shoulder tightness) which used to send me routinely to a massage therapist. In addition, The Lab has made me stronger, better runner. Over the last five years, I had been in and out of PT with running related injuries (runner's knee, weak hips, IT band issues). Last year I ran two marathons injury free. I believe I have The Lab to thank in part for that. Instructors are friendly, approachable and encouraging across the board. The studio's location is convenient for public trans and has easy, free street parking. Take a leap and try out a class here. You won't regret it. read more

When I moved to Chicago, I was looking to improve my yoga practice and when I found the Lab, I was ECSTATIC! This is a studio that is both physically and mentally challenging. All of the instructors are very welcoming and attentive during their classes. One of my favorite aspects is that the instructors give adjustments (both verbal and physical) and it helps you get deeper into a pose. My first class was with John and he gave such detailed instructions and helped me get into the arm balancing poses that I had never tried before. It was a great feeling trying new poses and I know I still have a long way to go. Now, those arm balances have become my favorite part of every class. If you are looking for a place to improve your yoga practice and challenge yourself, I would absolutely recommend going to the Lab! read more

It really has all been said, but I'll go ahead and recap for everyone! 1. This place is legit. 2. You will leave sweating. 3. Carmen has put together a STELLAR group of teachers: Tiffany, Molly, Moses, Lauren and Brandi know what they are doing. Yes, we all know that Carmen is the real deal, but I've yet to be disappointed by any of her prodigies yet!! 4. You will get better if you put in the work; The Lab makes sure of it. I too was a new comer to yoga, but got a Living Social deal and the studio is right across the street from my work. I knew it was meant to be after the very first class. Everyone makes an instant connection with you, by learning your name. No weird spiritual, funny smelling teachers that just tell you what to do with their eyes closed. No matter your skill level, you'll always feel right at home. Everyone digs in, the teachers provide small adjustments throughout class, which I LOVE! How are you supposed to ever get better if no one ever politely tells you what you're doing wrong and then shows you how to do it right?? More importantly, why haven't other yoga studios caught on to this concept?!? Doesn't matter, I'm a Labber for life! read more

love it. Reasonable price, teachers are always friendly and helpful, more asian style yoga- focus on stretching and holding. everything is good beside the location, but for what you can get, its worth to go. read more

The Lab isn't just about doing yoga for a workout: it's about taking your practice to the next level. If you are looking to improve your strength, flexibility, you name it, this is the place to come to finally be able to do it and do it correctly. Guaranteed to never waste your money on a boring class at the lab. I've been to a lot of different types of studios both in the suburbs and in the city, and experienced a lot of different types of styles of yoga, and nothing compares to the classes here. What I find cool is that almost every class I take I get to work on my hand stands or forearm balances and have an instructor right there to help teach me the right way to do it and even adjust me in almost every pose. I thought that the style of yoga was so great that I decided to take the yoga teacher training. My experience with that has been unexpectedly thorough and to the point. You get to spend a lot of time learning from Carmen exactly what I wanted to learn: how to teach yoga. We spent only a day or two on Sanskrit and the spiritual background of yoga and got right down to business: learning how to sequence classes, perform proper adjustments, and how to make the class the best it can be for the students. Thanks for the experience and training. read more

First class was yesterday for me and I will DEFINITELY be back!!! Carmen was extremely helpful in coming over to assist me getting into poses - I've done pilates, yoga, bar method...dabled in it all - Carmen's style of yoga is INTENSE and I LOVED IT!!! I purchased a package 5 classes for $35 - HOW can you beat that??!!!! Amazing deal, definitely worth checking it out! read more

I have never participated in a Yoga class before, but I decided to purchase the YouSwoop and made my first trip to the West Loop yoga studio a few months back. It was the best decision ever! Carmen is absolutely amazing! I went to the classes for 4 weeks straight and and each class there was a different move or challenge. The following day after each session I was beyond sore and knew I was learning something and working out areas I have not been able to do on my own. I was not able to continue with my last session until the end of the summer and was welcomed back with open arms and I purchased 10 more sessions! Carmen is very supportive and pushes you each session. If you want to learn more about yoga, and push yourself to explore a different area of exercise, cardio and increase flexibility, this studio is it! The studio is clean, bright, welcoming and the instructor is amazing! I plan to continue yoga and with the great prices, I will be coming back! read more

This place is AWESOME !!! I recently visited The Lab after not being in a yoga class for over a year. I was afraid about slowing the class down but decided to go anyways. My first class was kinda difficult and I almost did not return but thank Heaven I did. My second instructor was very nice and informative. Soren was in great shape and SUPER HELPFUL. A few times during the class she came over and helped me into a few poses. I laughed, had fun, had a great workout and plan to be back at least twice a week now. I would recommend this girls classes to anyone looking to stay in shape, unwind and have great time doing it. read more

I love "The Lab"! Carmen is a phenomenal instructor. She obviously knows her stuff and is in incredible shape herself, which is a great motivator. She takes the time to get to know her students, chatting with us before and after class. Her wit and sense of humor keep the atmosphere fun and light-hearted. The classes themselves are "kick your ass" yoga. You'll leave this class nicely sore and sweaty having worked muscles you haven't used since grade school. I've already lost a few pounds and noticeably toned up after just a couple month's of signing up! read more

The Lab is about one thing, and one thing only: YOGA. I really like The Lab. After practicing Ashtanga yoga for two years with one of its senior teachers, I have been hesitant to practice any other form of yoga. No other form of yoga seemed to be as straightforward and undiluted as Ashtanga. But, I bought a Groupon and decided to try The Lab. I am hooked. The last time I was there, Moises had us doing the wheel pose by the end of class. Now, this is a pose that took me two years to do work up towards while practicing Ashtanga, and I have only done it twice under the supervision/assistance of Lino Miele. Moises is an incredible teacher. He was born to teach yoga. He really makes you work. You can trust him with his adjustments; he knows what he is doing. You are going to love his class. The thing that is really cool about The Lab is that it totally lacks any tinge of pretense/nonsense that all of these other yoga schools in Chicago seem to thrive on. You will experience none of that at The Lab: not from the teachers or the other people practicing around you. It is such a different yoga experience from anything else out there that exists. My bestie describes it as "its own animal." That it is. Regardless of your background or experiences/preconceived notions about yoga, there is a place for you at The Lab. read more

The Lab was my first yoga experiment outside of Hot Yoga (but don't be fooled, you will be dripping sweat by the end of each class). I just recently moved here and started going to Core Power because it was easy. After a month I decided to walk down the street to the Lab. Best Yoga decision i have ever made. Prices are way better, teacher's are all approachable and the people are all easy going and friendly. Everyone else has already said it, but from day one this place will have you in positions you never dreamed you could achieve. Just going two days a week I can feel i am way stronger. I think i have had a class with every teacher (Except Carmen, she still intimidates me, the woman is an animal) and they are all incredible. I hate to post too many good things because this place has the potential to become the busiest yoga studio in town. But they deserve the great reviews and all the customers they can get. read more

The Lab has changed for the worst since under the ownership of Chris. It used to be a tough hatha style place that pushed your limits and kicked your ass. Now it is a a incohesive mixture of styles mostly vinyasa. I used to come 3-5 times a week and it felt like my second home. The teachers I met were amazing and he fired most of them because of his tiny ego... I no longer feel welcomed in this space. He took an already established amazing studio, painted a wall, made a man cave and thinks he is a success. I don't enjoy his style of teaching, his style is very "broey" and "look what I can do", I was constantly lost in his class because his directions weren't intuitive. read more

Short and sweet; this is the best Yoga practice in the City! That is if you want to expand your Yoga practice into a really athletic, strength building and mind awakening class. I have been practicing Yoga for over 2 years, mainly Hatha. Hatha is a good foundation, but doesn't really provided much of a challenge. Carmen and her team of instructors have developed a challenging and fun practice. There are a number of positions that I haven't mastered, which challenge me to work harder. But the joy comes when you finally reach that bind and can hold the position! read more

The Lab is AMAZING! It is by far the best yoga studio in Chicago. Although initially skeptical, I was hooked from the first class! Carmen is energetic, knowledgeable and loves to teach yoga. And it shows! Each class is a journey that she takes with the student with passion and vigor. Carmen has this amazing gift of passing her boundless energy to everyone in the class and is a perfectionist who pushes everyone to be their yogic-best. And her classes are anything but boring. I have been going to the Lab 3 times a week for the past 3 months, and am surprised that each time has been a new challenge! So if someone's issue with yoga is that it is boring, go to Carmen's class! It will be the most exciting thing you do the whole day. read more

As a newbie to the West Loop, I stumbled upon The Lab, and was stoked to give it a whirl (especially since its 5 blocks from my pad.) Having been a yogie in NYC for the past year, I've been dying to get back into the groove, find the right studio, teacher and class to get me back in yoga shape and spirit. I've only done 2 classes thus far, and I went totally out of order beginning with level 2/3 and then a day later level 1/2. Both are very hard, with lots of advanced moves and a much different flow than I've done before. That said, the toughness is very motivating, and for anyone who likes a challenge it will get you hooked. I've only been to a few classes EVER that they do side crow, Carmen pulled it out 20 minutes into class.. INTENSE..but we all loved every minute! Great energy in the class, very uplifting and you'll leave soaked... I recommend to anyone open to a challenge, loves a great work out! read more

This deserves an update because the majority of the last post was related to Carmen, the owner and an instructor at The Lab. Since November 2010, there have been additional instructors added to the lineup. To date, I have taken at least one class with each instructor (there are 8 total) and I can honestly say that every one of them is fantasic, in their own right. All of the instructors teach cYoga (Carmen's style), however each instructor's class is specific to their personality and their methods are all different. Be prepared to work hard with each instructor! Try them all out and see which personalities fit your practice best. read more