I recently took the sculpt class 6/24 @5:30 pm and while I appreciate the structure of the workout, I felt uncomfortable with the instructor’s approach. There were comments like “you made the effort to be here, so give it your all,” which came across less as encouragement and more as shaming, especially for someone like me who’s just getting back into working out. Not everyone can (or should) push to the same level, and the tone and other "cues" felt judgmental rather than supportive.
There were no modifications also. It just felt like you should be at the same level everyone else is at or your just dragging the class down/making it more difficult/inconveniencing your neighbor. Mind you this was the hottest and humid day of the year.
I was also uncomfortable with being asked to turn to my neighbor and give them a high five. As someone returning to fitness after a long break, this kind of forced interaction felt awkward and unnecessary. It would be great if more sensitivity were shown to different comfort levels, fitness levels, health levels and personal space.
Overall, I didn’t feel the class fostered an inclusive or encouraging environment for people at all stages of their fitness journey.
However, the HIIT class on Saturday 6/24 @11am was excellent. This instructor was encouraging, compliemented my form and didnt feel judgmental at all! I didn't feel shamed for not being on the same level as the people who maybe take classes every day.. She was attentive and opened the door a few times after reading the room. This instructor was attentive and truly cared about her students. I would sign up for a pass just to take her class. Much kudos to you, and I wish I could remember your name ❤️ The front desk staff and the cleaners after the class are amazing and super helpful. 10/10 for these...
Read moreThe best yoga studio I’ve been to. I’ve been to tons of yoga studios over the last 11 years. This is by far my favorite yoga studio I’ve practiced bikram yoga at. Great if you’re traveling. They’re very accommodating, they loaned me a lock, yoga towels, they have great showers with body wash, shampoo,conditioner, hair dryers and plenty of lockers and space to change. The drinks are not over priced like most studios. Check in is on the 3rd floor. I had a great check in experience with Cyan he was really kind, friendly and helpful. Bonus appreciation when he called me because I forgot some of my things. He’s a lovely person with the perfect personality for yogis. Mark Far’s evening 90 minute class was difficult but in a very good way. As a traveler he all warned me it’s hot. It’s a bit warmer temperature than the studios at home. Mark knew when to suggest encouraging to keep going and when to offer support when he saw me struggling. He’s kind, extremely knowledgeable with a really fun vibe. Lindsay’s 75 minutes morning class over looking Fifth Ave lovely she’s a vibe, totally fan girling over her. She’s also very kind, encouraging, knowledgeable with a fun vibe. Both instructors have amazing personalities. They both made me smile several times through my difficult journey. The students are as amazing and kind as the staff. They made me feel extremely welcome. I wish I had more time to practice with them. I wish I could bring this place home with me. If you’re new to this practice, or like me traveling in from out of town. Check in early, the trick is to get a spot by the window or door. Trust the processes and the instructors they know what they’re doing. This place is magical, I highly recommend coming here. I will be back on my...
Read moreNever have I felt so uncomfortable at a yoga studio. As a teacher myself I know the importance of new clients and first timers. Me, arriving as a first timer had a commute issue ending up arriving 3 mins late instead of 5 min early. The receptionist was extremely rude and went to lengths to almost make me more stressed out before practicing. Once the instructor let me in, he was also extremely rude — again, NEVER been to this studio before, brand new client. After rushing me to get in (by the way ruining the relaxing vibe for everyone else), it took about 15 min into the class for me to settle and concentrate after being treated so rudely by not one but two people within my first few minutes of being there. There was no welcome, nothing. Not even once I was done “how did you like your first class here?” They clearly are not trained in customer service, nor the core principles of yoga to begin with. Tout long yoga pose names, but if you live that harshly, you’re missing the entire core of the study. As both a yoga enthusiast and fellow teacher, I am very disappointed in my experience overall with the studio. There was also a very unpleasant odor once you got close to the ground that you could clearly smell.
With all that aside: The instructor, even if they were rude, did push everyone and you’ll get an insane sweat. If you can get over the attitude, unwelcomed atmosphere and bad odor, look past it- then maybe...
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