Bikram Yoga Tempe

I have been practicing hot yoga for 6 plus years. I’ve tried Bikram yoga before so I decided to purchase the latest One month at $ 49 Groupon for the Tempe studio.
When I attended my first class, I spoke to the rep who was behind the desk and I told her about my experience level (which is high) and my need to possibly modify some poses. I have a back disability that prevents me from doing certain back-​bend poses, but I am still able to fully participate in a 70 to 90 min. yoga class.
Well, during that class, the instructor chastised me in front of the entire group while I was in one of the few modified poses that I took that morning (roughly 50 minutes into the class). She called me out by my name and told me that I «need to stick to the „Bikram routine“ and use the 30 minutes between classes for my own practice.» I was amazed that 1) the instructor would call me out in the middle of practice, breaking my flow and concentration, and 2) she wasn’t caring or observant enough to see that the few modified poses that I took (Happy Baby, Child’s Pose) were being used to aleviate the back pain I was experiencing at that point. I would have walked out immediately but I did not want to disturb anyone else’s practice LIKE SHE DISTURBED MINE.
I never plan to attend another Bikram class again. I didn’t realize that Bikram’s philosophy is «If you don’t look and practice like us, you can’t be here.» What if I were a person with a visible physical disability? Would that mean I couldn’t participate in a Bikram class because I can’t stand on one leg or do a full back bend? This studio/​instructor is counter to what yoga truly stands for which is, «come as you are.»

Been coming here for a little over a year now. I love it. I feel so alive. I would recommend this place to everyone.

I’ve been practicing here on-​and-​off since Jan 2014 (Note: I live in both Arizona and California, so I typically don’t practice during summers and long holiday breaks). When in California, I have tried to look for a Bikram Yoga studio. Sadly, when you practice in Tempe, all other places pale in comparison.
There’s a lot to love at BYT. The staff and instructors are friendly, the facilities are clean, they offer a TON of classes, and are open seven days a week. Given my living situation, BYT has been incredible with being flexible with my membership. Elaina has always been accommodating, and I really appreciate that. While not all instructors are built the same, I will say that the few that I haven’t been too keen on are no longer there.
The practice room is huge and for the most part, there’s plenty of space. (Okay… I usually go to the early morning classes. I’m sure the night ones are crowded.) I love that the room is clean and doesn’t smell like Satan’s cheesy toes (Yeah BY Daly City. I’m talkin’ to YOU!). The instructors are really good at making sure that the room has been aired out between classes, and that the room isn’t too stuffy. The neofloor that they use should be standard issue in ALL BY studios. Plus, the air system is great.
Admittedly, I do have minor complaints. However, they have to do with fellow students more than they have to do with the facility, staff, and instructors. To my fellow practitioners, here are some tips you should be mindful of…
1) Be respectful when setting up your space. The room is huge, so please look at the mirror and make sure you’re not blocking anyone’s view. This is challenging when the classes are crowded, but please do your best. (You do not want to be that a$$hole on weekend mornings who always ALWAYS sets his mat up directly in front of people — even when there are only two other people in the room. Um, just cuz you’re in the front row doesn’t mean you can disregard the newbies in the back row. I curse you, Mr. Selfish. I.CURSE.YOU.)
2) When setting up your mat, the blue line should hit the MIDDLE of your mat. Misplacing your mat (e.g. making it so that the blue line hits the top or bottom of your mat) throws off the entire space. This is a HUGE deal when the room gets crowded because you’re basically hogging up three to four spaces, making it hard for people to set-​up. The staff at BYT are really good at going over etiquette, so please follow it. Personally, I really don’t need your smelly feet in my face, just because you don’t know where your mat is supposed to go. It would be great if the instructors could do a simple check or reminder at the beginning of class. Then again, if everyone was given the same set of rules, that you decide to misplace your mat just tells me you’re a crappy listener… and a crappy person. If this is you, again, I.CURSE.YOU.
3) For as clean as the room is, things will get a little funky — especially if you don’t wear proper deodorant. Don’t be a tool. Come to class clean. There are showers and towels for rent if you need to do a simple rinse off. Your senses (and mine) will be grateful.
4) It’s hot yoga. There’s lots of sweating going on. If you’re a heavy sweater, please bring extra towels. While using your mat and towel as sweat-​filled slip-​n-​slide is cute to you, it’s not to me. Note: I DO NOT appreciate you flicking your sweat on me. That’s just rude. Yes, if this is you, I.CURSE.YOU.
5) You should bring water. If you practice regularly, I recommend investing in a HydroFlask or insulated Kleen Kanteen.
6) If you’re a super newbie, I highly recommend that you sit out for the first set, and then pick up the pose in the second set. You’re welcome.
7) When students come in late, I do wish instructors led the late kids to the open spaces (usually toward the front). While it’s sometimes hard to avoid, I suggest NOT setting up directly in front of the door. It makes it difficult for people to maneuver in and out. (Plus, do you really want to be the person that everyone has to walk/​trip over just to leave after the final pose?)
8) In the locker rooms, please don’t drag your wet feet and hair all over the place. It’s just rude. Wipe your feet, for heaven’s sake.
Er. Um. Okay. I think I’ve covered it. In sum, this is an AMAZING place. If you’re a student, keep it that way and be kind to your fellow practitioner. Thanks:)

After reading all of the reviews I was very excited to try this place. I’ve actually only written one semi negative review on Unilocal because I believe in spreading positivity, not negativity. I just moved to the area and found the studio on Unilocal and saw it was only 6 minutes away. I got there today at 5:20 AM for the morning session. The studio was very nice. However, the front desk associate was not. This was an older woman with long hair. I told her I’ve never been here and I’d like to do the $ 30 for 30 day new member offer. This woman was extremely rude to me. It seemed as though I was a great inconvenience to her. She handed me the form to fill out. As filling out I ignored her attitude and mentioned that I typically go to Sumits. She snaps «well this is nothing like Sumits» and then explains the flow. Okay, I say, that’s fine. I then say well I guess I do want to ask, I typically have to leave at 6:30 because I have to get ready for work and be there at 8:00. She looks at me like I just cussed at her or something. Oh well you can but really it’s meant to be the 90 minute and then she just glared at me. I just kind of looked at her and say alright I guess it may not work. I put the pen down and leave. There’s more awkwardness to it but hard to write out. She just gives me a dirty look and does not say anything, no thank you, goodbye, nothing. I know this whole review may sound petty but I am just in shock by how rude this woman was. Yoga and meditation is supposed to be a place filled with love, peace, and happy people! I’ve been practicing for almost 2 years now and have never felt such negative energy in a studio before. This woman had such bad energy, she does not even belong in this business. I actually work down the street as a property manager, I’ll be sure to stop telling all of my residents about the Bikram Studio around the corner. I’ll refer them elsewhere. From what the studio website states, they just re-​opened. I would highly suggest a more customer service oriented and courteous individual representing their company, otherwise they will loose a lot of business. They just lost 10+ new memberships here!

For years a friend of mine has been trying to get me into a Bikram class with her at this studio and I have refused, afraid I would pass out or become nauseated from the heat. However, this last weekend I finally took the plunge!
Walking into the studio I was immediately greeted by Shyam who told me what I could expect, where my focus should be, and overall tips for me to feel successful after the 90 minutes was up. He explained the main goal was to just stay in the room, whether I did yoga for the entire 90 minutes or not. Shyam was very good about helping me throughout the class so I understood the proper poses and how to breathe. He was very encouraging and made me feel calm.
Drop in classes are $ 17 or you can purchase your first month for only $ 29. I went ahead and bought my first month at $ 29, knowing that even if I only go one more time I would already be saving money.
I plan to return to this studio over the next month on a regular basis.

I signed up for the one month unlimited new student pass at Bikram Yoga Tempe shortly after injuring my left knee Olympic Weightlifting.
And what a steal at $ 29!
This was my first experience with Bikram; had a brief affair with Sumits in the past.
I’m going to try to be as fair as possible with this review.
Almost everyone I encountered was friendly! How genuine it was, erm … Who knows.
While I enjoyed my experience, and studio and space is absolutely gorgeous, I felt some of the teachers could do significantly better about being mindful of their students’ injuries.
I went to great lengths to inform the teachers prior to class of my injury, and may not get into (or even attempt) some of the poses per my orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist’s instruction.
One was happy to offer modifications prior to class. AMAZING! One just acknowledged it then called me out several times to get into the poses (ones recommended to avoid) at all costs.
Militant much? I thought this was Yoga.
Of course I’m an athlete and competitive as all get out with myself and attempted these poses against better judgement.
Not only was this severely painful (we’re talking about a meniscus injury, severe osteochondrosis and a badly contused femur here) … It almost put me off from the practice completely.
The studio seems to pack as many students as possible into their ginormous space, which makes me wonder if a teacher is able to truly spot poor form and correct it. Kind of like overbooking CrossFit classes … A Hunger Games situation just waiting to happen.
Another thing I noticed, these guys like to brag about their heating system, yet this place doesn’t get as hot as other studios. What’s the point if it’s cool?
Anyway, BYT closed for renovation on May 16^th with 2 – 3 days left on my pass.
BYT was a nice intro to the practice, but I don’t think I’d commit to a membership here for the reasons stated in this review.
Update ⁶⁄₁₀: Received an e-​mail response to this review from Elaina Zorensky. Very classy and much appreciated! I’ve attached photos to this review in the spirit of being transparent. Thanks for your response, Elaina — I’ll send you one shortly.

Got a group on! I am a first timer to bikram and I really liked it. I have not been to other in Arizona but this is well maintained and the teachers are good. Unable to make it all days of the week. but three days per week is not that bad. I really likes it. it feels like you after you come out of asteam bath and i get goooood sleep :) definitely going to take a package when my Groupon subscription ends

I love, love, love this place. To be honest, this is my second time at a yoga studio, first time doing Bikram yoga so I’m going to frankly say I don’t really have much to compare it with, but it has definitely made a great impression so far.
For any first-​timers like me out there, each Bikram yoga class is 90 minutes long, a series of 26 poses, in a controlled 106 degree room (any regulars, feel free to correct me if I’ve mixed up the details). And during these 90 minutes, you will ache from using all those muscles you never knew existed, and oh my god will you sweat. They are not kidding when they tell you not to wear cotton. I wore cotton yoga pants on my first class, and in my defense I had thought to myself, they’re called yoga pants for a reason, so they’d be perfect, but nope, ditch the cotton. And ditch the pants — by that, I mean wear shorts. Girls, sports bras are great. Guys, shirt or no, that’s up to you — but if you’re hot, (ha! pun intended) no shirt’s cool. ;)
As for the studio itself, the staff are great. Really friendly, great vibe, and the instructors are very personable, extremely helpful, and always make it a point to walk around to correct your form if necessary, so no worries there! There are huge wall-​to-​wall mirrors on two walls of the room, making it great for you to watch out for your own form as well as your profile. The «classroom» is very spacious, easily fitting 40 – 50 people on a busy day, but it does get pretty humid during those classes.
So what makes me love this place? You will definitely work up a sweat, you’re all limbered up by the end of class, they have a great schedule and offer classes at pretty much all times of the day (so you don’t have an excuse to miss class), they rent towels and yoga mats for $ 2 and sell a variety of drinks. Basically, it’s hard for you to tell yourself you’re not gonna go for class even if you’re in the area and didn’t bring your mat or towel. Perfect if you’re like me and having trouble sticking to my New Year’s Resolution to work out more… Oh and if you bring 3 friends in, I think they pay $ 29 for their first month, and you’ll get a $ 25 credit! Now if only most of my friends didn’t live over in West Phoenix…

This place is so consistently clean, has plenty of classes and AWESOME TEACHERS! I love that they have expanded the dressing and shower facility, they also have the greatest floors to practice on and the AIR IS FILTRATED so it’s never stinky! The owners take pride in their studio as shown by putting money back into it and are always there either teaching or interacting with their customers/​employees.
To find an exercise for the mind, body and spirit to which you can spend decades perfecting and growing into is truly a blessing and having a top notch studio to practice in that is equally dedicated to this art is getting to ‘have it all’!
There are many forms of yoga and I have tried a few but Bikram is the one that I’m hooked on. Thanks Ben, Elaina and all the staff and friends that I“ve made at this studio that encourage me!

Hands down one of the best studios I’ve ever been to. The studio, instructors, yogis are friendly, welcoming and come in all varieties. They know what they are doing and have fun while practicing to be well. I heart them.

First impression, this place was warm, cozy, and great service. The staffs very friendly and all the instructors very talkative. I thought I couldn’t survived on the 1^st day but I did… lol.
For water bottle, they sale very great one from hydro flask. If you forget to bring your mat, you can rent it for $ 2 and don’t forget to spray it with the cleaner outside the studio and hang dry.
Bring a lot of water and 2 big towels (they sale it too if you don’t bring one).
You can get cheaper membership on Groupon.
Overall, it’s very great experience in here.

Love both Bikram yoga and this studio! If you are hesitant about trying Bikram yoga — just take the leap! The staff is very friendly and the instructors are great. I have been to one other studio in the valley, and it doesn’t even compare.
One thing I love abt Bikram Yoga is the energy inside the room. How everyone in the class is in it together. No judgement! Like we’re all trying to better ourselves, wherever we might be in life.
My husband and I just came back after a long break, and are loving it! Ironically, it’s a great workout for AZ summers, as you’ll probably feel cooler while sweating inside a heated studio than outside. ;-)

Super friendly staff! They made my out of town drop in feel like home. Huge studio that can fit up to 100 students

I went to this studio once when they offered a free weekend promotion. It was a very nice experience. The studio offered free water samples which was great since I didn’t have my water that day. It was just enough to wet the palate and not get full in class. The room was huge, or at least seemed huge because of the high ceilings. No, it was huge, but cold despite being a packed house. Maybe it was because of the cold weather that day or I’m not sure, but it was basically cold in there. Other than that, I enjoyed the class. The teacher was okay. I don’t remember his name. He didn’t make a point of asking for any new student names or anything. Not too impressed by that teacher, but I loved the restroom. Lol.
The ladies’ showers were so clean! I loved that they provided soap, shampoo, and conditioner. Maybe I love the shower more than the studio! Hey, it’s important when a facility is clean. It lets you know that management is up to snuff and the staff cares.
I would come back here but I’m loyal to another studio. I just had to give it a try. It’s a nice place, cold but very welcoming and clean.

Love love love this place.
And this is several classes in; after THE WORST YOGA EXPERIENCE EVER* at Phoenix Bikram on Camelback and Central. Which is 5 minutes away, and I happily drive 40 to Tempe for Bikram Yoga on Guadalupe and McClintock.
Serious hot yoga seeking folks-​incredible experience. I was very leery due due my experience with «Robert» at Bikram aka «Dic-​kram» at Phoenix Bikram. But I am totally blissfully loving Tempe.
Only place to go, since Dawn at Hot Yoga (16^th st & Bethany) passed away. Namaste Dawn, you are missed. I was shocked to read of your passing. Thank you for the classes.

I enjoy Bikram.
This studio is well kept.
The staff and instructors are quite knowledgeable.
To practice, it costs a pretty penny. Some people, however, will reason that it is but a small price to pay for better health.
Am a student on a budget. Mum and Dad is not paying for my living expenses or uni… And Bikram.*lol*
Be warned, it does smell once you are in there. If you can by pass this, you might just find your zen, even if its only 90minutes out of your day. ;)
Xx

I recently finished using my 30 day unlimited pass. The Tempe location is the last of the 3 Bikram locations I’ve tried since January. You do get the most bang for your buck by sticking with one location and taking advantage of the 20% off a class package.
It really is a state-​of-​the-​art studio. The the studio itself has none of the sweaty «smell» mentioned in the other reviews. The anti-​microbial «carpet» is my favorite flooring of all the Bikram locations I’ve been to. The corner farthest from the lobby door really IS the HOT side of the room but there are several fans so you can set your mat up near one to catch a hot breeze. Check out their website for lots of useful info about yoga etiquette & how to be ready for your first Bikram class. The shower/​sink area is TINY for the number of people using the dressing room.
This location is celebrating their 10 year anniversary & is always BUSY! Each class typically 40+ students in it & I think they MAX out around 50. Yes 50! So the size of the class itself can be a bit intimidating if you’re new to Bikram. The routine seems to be get there as early as you can, go lay out your mat in the spot of your choice & then sit in the lobby until 2 min before class.
I’ve tried to change it up & try class with at least 10 different teachers. While the dialogue is basically the same, each one has their own energy & style. You can check the schedule online if you want to choose your class specific to the instructor. And several of the instructors actually do teach at more than one location. I really enjoyed classes with Charles, Ben & Jeremy. All of them reminded us about the importance of BREATHING! My favorites phrase from Charles is so simple: «I am inhaling. I am exhaling.» It really helped me focus on controlling my breathing :)
One instructor actually finished about 8 minutes early and I did feel rushed! I was hoping it was just a fluke but the 2^nd time I took her class the same thing happened. There were 4 or 5 first-​time Bikram students in the class and not once did she remind us about a 5 second in /​5 second out breath. Nor did she talk about how they might be feeling or say it was ok to take a knee or lie down if needed. If she offered up a little more guidance we would probably finish at 90 minutes. I hate to say it but I probably won’t be taking her class again.

So my wife found this place, off a groupon I think, and what a lovely find. I went for my first time with her today, and was friendly welcomed into the class with a few helpful words from the teacher, Ron. By the Ron is awesome.
If you are looking for a solid yoga workout with friendly staff to boot; look no further. Highly recommended.

Little known fact: All of the «Bikram Yoga _​_​_​» are independently owned and managed, so any package that you buy at any of them can only be used at that specific location.
Aaaaaand on with the review. But wait! Here is my small disclaimer: BYT is doing a big remodel this week and closing for 4 days. I have no clue what the place will look like after the remodel so this review is purely based on the current status. I will happily issue a follow-​up if my experience changes post-​remodel.
BYT is one of the more well-​known Bikram places in the valley as it has been there for 10 years. Over the years they have increased their student-​base making every class completely at capacity with new and regular students.
The studio itself is very tiny. The yoga hall is standard but their lobby and bathrooms are crammed to say the least. The bathroom area has 2 toilets, 2 showers and 2 sinks all within a tiny space. This makes it extremely hard to get in/​out when other people are nearby. The cubby-​hole area has 2 benches for ladies to change– yet right before/​after class it becomes a mad house of people moving around, trying to fit into an area where they can change, reach for their bags or go to the toilet. The whole studio is just too damn crammed. To make matters worse, the bathroom entrance is blocked by a small desk (filled with business cards from different shops) and racks of clothes for sale.
The yoga success itself varies from teacher to teacher. Some of them are very funny and kind and keep you upbeat. Others wear tiny boxer briefs and let it all «hang out» (first time I ever regretted being in the front row). The staff behind the counter is usually very nice and they make a point to get to know all the students and keep up with their schedule and progress.
The one big problem I have with BYT is the smell. That sweaty sweaty smell that turns people off from Bikram so much. I used to assume that this would happen regardless and I would have to get used to it, but after going to several studios I’ve noticed that Bikram studios DON’T HAVE TO smell like swamp ass, they can actually smell like nothing. Like clean. Like a dead llama didn’t just rot there. BYT definitely has a punch of a smell when you walk into the hot room, and unfortunately its also present in the locker rooms and bathrooms.
Like every other bikram place, the exercises, timing and heat don’t change, so the only comparable things are the teachers, staff and studio itself. I think BYT is a great place to exercise and meet people, but they have a lot of improvements to do. I’m crossing my fingers and toes for an amazing remodel and for a positive follow-​up experience on the smell and space. Good luck BYT!

i had a livingsocial coupon for 1 month, and sadly, i got sick halfway through the month and didn’t really get my $‘s worth. BUT, i got a good feel for Bikram.
I like it, but wouldn’t do it as a regular practice; primarily because you do the SAME exact routine each time. i get bored. i know, it’s supposed to be good for you to do it that way, but my mind wanders.
my recommendations: chug water ALLLL day, and then drink a coconut water 30 min before class. you will barely need to touch your water during class (which is better!). screw the yoga mat, you really just need a large absorbent beach towel (i think they want you to bring the mat, and it makes you look like you know what you’re doing, so why not.). sit closer to the windows — it’s cooler on that side of the room! wear pants/​leggings — otherwise you will not be able to grab your legs well during the «windmover» pose.
don’t feel intimidated if this is your first yoga class or first Bikram class — the teachers are all pretty cool and helpful, and NO ONE cares about anyone else when it is blistering hot in there and you are sweating like a leaky faucet. trust me. it’s important to be able to see yourself, so I recommend going to less crowded classes. the 6pm class is the craziest!!!
i like that they have showers in the locker room, annnnd shampoo/​conditioner/​body wash/​face wash/​dryers for you to use. so nice!
if it wasn’t so pricey, i would probably try to go 1−2xs a week, just for the fun sweat factor.