Bikram's Yoga College of India

05/16/2008 Posted by TeacherSabi

I've been a fitness freak my whole life, and a yogini for five+, and this was the first time I ended a physical practice feeling worse than when I started. The one thing I liked was the heated room, though in a well-planned yoga sequence, you build your own heat-- heat in the room is just icing on a cake. Here, it seems more like a crutch you can use if you choose not to breathe properly. When I got there, one of the staff members made a catty comment about folks choosing the elevator over the stairs to get up to the studio (which I hadn't done), a red flag. But then the session-- eek! Regardless of the tradition, yoga is not supposed to be just a workout; it's a physical & spiritual practice that connects, cleanses and energizes the internal systems and opens the mind, clearing the way to connect to a greater power. The "beach body" is a side effect, not the goal. This, on the other hand, was more like boot camp with some disjointed yoga postures sprinkled on top. The instructor barked commands the entire time, and his only non-commands referenced the number of calories we might burn or how listening to him would "change your life." I felt none of the "namaste" energy I've felt elsewhere; indeed, the instructor walked out of the studio while everyone was in savasana without a closing bow or anything, something I've never seen before. I actually walked out feeling angry, also a first. If you're just looking for a workout that doesn't involve an elliptical or an iPod, this might be your spot (though I have to say, I'd still recommend Jazzercize or Zumba or belly dancing...pretty much anything over Bikram), but if you're looking for real yoga, this is not the place.

Pros: heated room

Cons: superficial, disconnected, unsupportive

05/12/2008 Posted by cheribro

A terrific studio, with excellent teachers, flexible class schedule, life-changing practice. This is serious practice by people committed to yoga, but it's accessible to beginners.

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful

01/30/2008 Posted by tinymortal

My mom turned me onto Bikram during a visit home for the holidays in Northern California. Immediately hooked, I returned to Philly determined to regularly sweat yoga-style... Unfortunately this place is the only Bikram studio in the Center City area. If you are looking for a militant and competitive environment to practice yoga -- then this is the place for you [hence my Karate Kid reference]. I'm no purist, but that's not really what yoga is about for me.

Pros: Plethora of Classes, Decent Studio

Cons: Militant Atmosphere

03/20/2007 Posted by papazow123

i attended my first c[lass last night and must say that i was extremely pleased with pretty much everything about this place. walking in to a cheery greeting and a welcoming atmosphere was exactly what i needed after an obnoxious day at work. i was made to feel comfortable immediately and although the class was extremely difficult, the attitude of the instructor and his attentiveness both throughout and after the class was outstanding. i will definitely go back to this place.

Pros: good atmosphere + instructor

Cons: class was too crowded

07/29/2006 Posted by seyfertd

I have been going to Joel's studio ever since it opened (I think maybe 5 years ago or so?) and I absolutely love the people and the quality of the teachers and classes. There are so many classes each day providing a flexible schedule for students. I don't even remember a day that the studio has been closed as there always seems to be a modified schedule on the holidays so folks are sure not to miss their practice. I have taken classes from all of the instructors and they are very knowledgeable, committed, patient and passionate about what they do. The staff and students at this studio are very friendly and helpful which gives the place a pleasant "vibe" and makes it a welcoming, unintimidating place for new students. If you want a hard workout in a friendly environment, I would definitely recommend this studio.

Pros: Lots of classes, great instructors, friendly environment

Cons: Could use better shower facilities but overall not bad

07/10/2006 Posted by jnorman123

I travelled all over Europe and USA. This is the Best studio I ever been. I loved it and each time I am in Philadelphia I make a point to take JO Bikram's classes. I recover my jet lag very quickly and I fell wonderfull. It is affordable and they have so many classes that you can easily make it work in your schedule.There is also no expirations date. The studio atmosphere is lay back and the teachers very professional. One complaint it could be hotter... just kidding!

Pros: Great atmosphere, affordable and excellent teachers

Cons: none

05/27/2006 Posted by neuroyogi

If you're looking for a friendly, knowledgeable staff who teach in a supportive, non-judgemental way, just direct your feet to Joel's clean, freshly painted facility on Sansom Street. The flexible schedule is another plus. Yogic philosophy is kept low-key, but clearly animates the workings of this great Yoga studio.

04/23/2006 Posted by jsdenyes

Joel Pier is a supurbly gifted teacher with an ace staff. He has put his heart and soul into this studio created a real sense of community.

04/09/2004 Posted by digenovajohn

A great, comfortable, and relaxing atmosphere. Great teachers who are extremely knowledable and helpful. Definitely the best place to do yoga in Philadelphia or anywhere!

Pros: price, atmosphere, teachers