In MKE for a conference and dropped in for a 60 minute 26/2 class. Super accommodating and friendly team and terrific instructor (Sue, who was subbing in this class). Good sized room could easily have accommodated ~30 people; we had about 10. Room was appropriately hot and appropriately humid. Always interesting to see how different places have different variations on 26/2 -- this was a slightly different variation on the theme from what I'm accustomed to -- some postures done 2x when the "standard" 60 minute does them only once, so there was a little less space in and between postures, but it was a well taught class. They also offer a variety of other classes including power vinyasa, yin, and others (check the website!) Studio had mat and towels for rent for visitors like me. Showers available. Would absolutely return if back in this town with some time. Bravo. read more

It's a great yoga studio. Be aware when parking at the Milwaukee location; cars have been broken into (multiple times).

Absolutely best hot yoga studio in Milwaukee area. I've been hooked since I started 2 years ago. They have classes from beginner to advanced. The vibe is great in both studios. Friendly people of all ages and backgrounds who love yoga. I have lost weight and gained much better mental health. They invest heavily in the studio. It's clean and every teacher is 1st rate. I love that they always have a class going on at either Brookfield or Milwaukee. Go here if you want the best yoga experience in the area. read more

Where do I begin on reviewing a business that has truly changed my outlook on life? As I sat in my window box of my Milwaukee AirBnB, I never knew that simply peering out the window and across the street would be more exciting then my Cinnamon Toast Crunch... with each bite I took - I saw the skill that every stretch took... some more difficult then finding a sober Milwaukee Native... I felt immediately compelled to stand up and copy my classmates stances... in between my cereal bites I became extremely limber... and ready to take on the day! As far as the smell, that everyone says that they notice... I did not. It could be the fact that I was inside my own home and in my clean sweats... but your guess is as good as mine... I would say to bring a towel or two... since most of my fellow classmates looked as though they had just cold plunged into Lake Michigan (which let me know if that becomes a thing... I'd love to watch with a bowl of Ben and Jerry's)... Would recommend to all. - Downward Dog Diva read more

Hot Yoga Milwaukee - Yoga Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

3 stars for price. I used to come weekly. Now the price is just outrageous. $35 for a drop in class. Even paying $260 for a 10 pack is crazy. Not worth it anymore. Maybe if it becomes more affordable to the average person I would come back. I have a free sauna at the gym I go to so I still reap the heat benefits. read more

great place for my yoga practice. Welcoming environment, great instructors and great atmosphere. A great way to reduce stress before or after work, or during the middle of the day I never feel better than walking out after a session. mike l read more

It is profound disappointment that I write this review about Hot Yoga Milwaukee. I have attended classes at this studio for approximately 6 years and have found great relief and comfort being able to enjoy the many teachers that have passed through this establishment. Recently, however, I have experienced increased discomfort with pressure to submit to allowing the staff to take a photo for identification under the guise that it was "for their safety". I declined, due to several personal reasons, and they relented. After this, every time I showed up to an evening class when the owner/manager was on site I was harassed about providing a photo - she tried to joke about it but this always created a feeling of discomfort - not what anyone wants when attending a yoga class for personal meditation. This week, attending an evening class with the manager on site, I was confronted in the yoga room by the instructor, at the manager's insistence, and told I could not have the flimsy yoga sling I use to carry my mat, towels and water more easily into the room. This sling is something I have used for the entire span of time attending this studio. I was told that the instructor needed to pat down the sling to ensure I wasn't carrying a gun. A gun! This experience is so insane and unnecessary to cause stress to a long-time client. Singling me out, when they have no idea that my training involves considerable safety procedural experience as a business owner as well as training with the FBI, is insulting and unacceptable. I will not be returning to this studio given the tactics now being displayed. Shame on the owners for creating what was once a wonderful experience into an incredibly uncomfortable and unwarranted situation. read more

With my friend Shannon as my guide, I gave Bikram a shot and it was alright! You'll want to drink plenty of water before, during and after class and bring a large and small towel. Target sells specific grippy towel type things you can put on your mat or just use it on its own because the floor here is not hard. I didn't feel any specific connection with the instructors but you can tell they are knowledgeable. For the 90 minute class, they go through the same poses and routine every time. This is not for me, but I can see how that would be really beneficial to mark your progress. The rooms and changing rooms are nice and clean. The few times I came, I was able to find parking near their entrance on the street. read more

We have been members at Hot Yoga Milwaukee for over a year, and we really enjoy it. After studio hopping for half a year, we tried the new student intro special at Hot Yoga and decided to stay. Good instructors, nice facility, and an excellent variety of classes. One of our favorite things about the studio is the class time options; they make it easier fit a class a day into a busy schedule with offerings throughout the day, 7 days a week. read more

By far my favorite Yoga studio in Milwaukee. The studio room itself is spacious and beautiful. The instructors and talented and really push you! Additionally they have nice amenities- showers, changing room, and bathrooms. The only thing they could invest in his individual lockers. A woman's few weeks ago had her car keys stolen, which is rare and unfortunate but regardless it could be a good investment to protect your clients! read more

This place has the best staff ever!!! Everyone always smiles and gives such a warm welcome. unlike many hot yoga studios this one is very clean and takes hygiene very seriously. by far the best studio in Milwaukee read more

Things I don't like: workout/yoga instructors that focus too much on hippy-dippy stuff and not enough on the physicality of the practice, saying "namaste" out loud, being too close to other people spatially Things I do like: getting a solid workout, challenging myself to focus and breathe, clearing my head of anxiousness, clearing my body of toxins, calming my nerves, knowing the "why" behind any action, holistic health practices (when the person leading the practice isn't too hippy-dippy, of course) Hot Yoga Milwaukee (formerly Bikram Yoga - now re-named and re-branded because Mr. Bikram got into some hot water for being a bit of a creep) = not something I thought I'd ever try. But surprisingly, I'm into it. I don't like being too close to other people. I get nervous very easily. I get claustrophobic when I can't breathe. Heat coupled with humidity makes feel like I can't breathe. Also, I'm kind of a curmudgeon. So when Yelp MA extraordinaire Chelsie L invited me to join her one Wednesday afternoon, I was somewhat hesitant. Will I like this? Will it smell weird in there? What do I wear? How hot is it going to be? "Relax, Fell. For real, you really need to relax sometimes. Just go and try it out." -me to myself And I did. And I liked it, like Mikey, the cereal commercial kid from the 80s. I bought a one-month intro pass for $35, it pays for itself after just two sessions. I've gone twice now, and both times I've done the 90-minute Bikram class; it's a series of the same poses and postures over and over. Some advice: bring a mat and a big towel AND a little towel. You are going to sweat like you've never before, probably. Don't forget to breathe. Maybe start with a 60 minute class. Don't be a hero. Watch others around you, you'll learn and pick up on things faster that way. Hot yoga is a pretty perfect workout/practice for the long Wisconsin winter. You'll sweat out all that bourbon and macaroni and cheese and while you'll feel the grossest right after it's done, you'll feel amazing after a shower. Plus, breathing the winter air will have never felt so refreshing. Beginners, vets and everyone in-between was in attendance at the 90 minute Bikram class at 4:30pm on Monday and Wednesday. There was a dude there that looked like my dad. There were ladies there that looked like pros. If you go, just focus on yourself. Looking forward to trying a few more classes this month. TL;DR :: Be open to new things, like I am... sometimes. read more

First off, I'm disappointed to see so many negative reviews of this place. Obviously, everyone is entitled to their opinions and should express them, but some of the portrayals of this studio just seem exaggerated and incorrect. I hope I can help give an accurate idea of this truly awesome yoga studio. I only recently started practicing Bikram yoga. I had done some hot yoga years ago and thought I knew what I was getting myself into. I did not. The class takes place in a room heated to 105 degrees. For those who are not accustomed to it, it is an excruciating experience. My first class was one of the worst physical fitness experiences of my life. I felt like I was drowning, hyperventilating, nauseous, and oh so many other horrible feelings. I barely could perform any poses and I consider myself to be a healthy, fit person of average weight. I should have been able to do better. It took me a few days to recover and honestly I didn't want to come back. I told myself I needed to at least give it another try. I'm so glad I did. I can't say that enough. The next class I found that the poses came easier, the heat wasn't as oppressive and my body was embracing my surroundings and the flow of the class structure. The practice is meant to go from extreme effort to extreme relaxation and I know that is something that everyone, especially me, struggles with each class. Just from a health standpoint, the benefits are evident extremely quickly if you stick with the practice. I have had major debilitating hip and back problems in the last 5 years and practicing Bikram has helped me in more ways than I could have imagined. The most important thing to remember in practicing is that you have to focus on yourself, your body, and just keep breathing. I can safely say this is the MOST DIFFICULT physical exercise regime I've ever done in my life. I'm sure most people come into class expecting to be something akin to the yoga dvds you can buy at Target and you need to know that this will NOT be the case in Bikram. However, should you embrace the class structure, setting and difficulty level, you will reap immense rewards. With regards to the instructors: I have never encountered one instructor during my class times there that hasn't been completely concerned with the safety and health of the practicing class. In fact, a few days after my first class, my first instructor called me at home to ask if I was feeling all right after and if I needed any information about recovering from practice. If that isn't dedication to customer service, I don't know what is. I found that really remarkable given there are SO MANY practicing yogis at this studio. I really felt taken care of and it encourages me to keep coming back and trying to improve my practice. I do have to concede one point with the other reviews and that is that there is a discernible odor to the entry way to the studio and the class rooms. It is a distinct musty, salty, sweat smell, but they do make efforts to eliminate it and it honestly doesn't get noticeably bad until there have been multiple consecutive classes like on Saturdays and Sundays. For the most part, the smell comes with the territory. The class is designed to make you sweat out toxins. Sweat smells. Deal with it. The locker rooms are not huge, but there are enough cubbies, lockers, showers, bathroom stalls, sinks and mirror space for the class sizes. The only caveat about the female locker room is that when you are attending a large class you will have to wait to use these areas after class. However, you are coming to Bikram to practice yoga. It isn't simply a gym. The practice is meant to encourage patience with your body and mind, why not continue that mentality into the locker room as well? I really have enjoyed my classes at this lovely studio and will continue to practice as much as my body and pocketbook allow. If you are suffering from chronic pain symptoms, I highly recommend getting into this practice. I spent the last two years of my life coping with horrific back pain. The last two months I have experienced completely pain free days and improved posture and alignment. If that isn't a testament to what this class can do for a completely new beginner practicing in a short period of time, I don't know what is. read more

A friend of mine raves about Bikram yoga, so when my husband recently persuaded me to buy the Living Social deal for five classes here, I figured it was worth a try. I've never been particularly skilled at yoga, and I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, so I was a bit hesitant -- but Hot Yoga Milwaukee was a nice surprise. First off, it's hot. No, really. It doesn't matter to me if Arizona is your favorite vacation spot -- this is Milwaukee, and this room is hot. So don't underestimate that -- drink lots and lots of water beforehand and avoid food. For the classes I attended, it seemed like there were maybe 30-35 individuals participating, spread throughout the room. Bring your mat and towel or rent/buy them in the lobby area. Beyond that, the staff members are really friendly. I interacted with a few different instructors, and each was pleasant and welcoming. I appreciated their willingness to give subtle feedback on poses while teaching the class. If you need to take a break, it's totally not awkward to pause for a moment (or five). The studio seemed really clean to me as well. I'm a recovering germaphobe (thanks, Mom) so it's not really my thing to walk around a fitness area and locker room barefoot, but the facilities seemed well-maintained. Perhaps the only downside is that the locker room is pretty small, so when you're trying to use it particularly when another class is getting ready to begin, it's a little challenging to find your own space. Parking can also be a little iffy, but I found it easy enough to snag a street spot in the Beerline B neighborhood. Overall, I really like this place. Classes are $18 each, but there are lots of package options if you plan to go repeatedly. This might become my go-to place once the outside temps regularly dip below freezing. read more

This place smells awful, and the owner is rude. I will take my business elsewhere where I am appreciated as a customer.

I was compelled to write this review because of some of the sort of ridiculous reviews i've seen of this place listed here. They remind me alot of the "secret shopper" comments my place of work gets from people who are obviously pampered, prejudgemental and rather uninformed on certain facts of life and business. For example, the reviewer who assumed a "proper" yoga studio is one with incense, bamboo paintings and middle eastern music... As for the complaint about the ceiling...this yoga is performed in a room of 105 degrees F. That grey, fuzzy stuff on the ceiling is what is called insulation. I know you probably aren't a carpenter, but come on, a bit of logical reasoning here... I guess many of the reviewers have never been into a rock climbing gym or place where people take their shoes off alot? Yep, that musty smell isn't a new thing, it sorta comes with the territory of sweaty feet. (it stands out the first 3 minutes after you enter the room and then little more than an afterthought as you'll be absorbed in your own fragrant scent soon after). And let me tell you folks, your own sweaty feet and pits contributed to that odor too for the next class. Lets suck it up and move forward. Bikram is very different from other yoga studios but a little research and maybe an advance visit before your first class prepare you for much of it. I assumed with people sweating buckets that it would smell like people had sweat buckets (but honestly, it isn't that bad-- less of a surprise if you are active and used to indoor gyms). My first visit there, I was told exactly what went on. Same 26 postures twice each, don't eat 2-3 hours before class, which helps immensely because once I thought I could sneak a meal of rice about 45 minutes prior, and that rice really wanted to come up in class. Hydrate *before* class. Drinking water during the session makes you feel more nauseous. Rehydrate mostly after class. This is why the instructors suggest that you not drink too much during class, but you don't need to take a suggestion as a demand. I was shown the room in advance and got an idea of the heat. The staff were great each time I visited. One class (the day I ate the rice) I had to leave the room as I didn't want to get sick and the ladies outside asked me if I was ok. After hanging out in the locker room over the toilet, one of them came in to check on me. They checked on me again before I re-entered the room. After re-entering, the instructor asked me as well. I do notice a bit of intolerance towards talking in class, but it never struck me as rude. When my boyfriend asked me if I was ok (I was feeling a bit light headed) the instructor did intervene and asked if we "had any questions?" I just firmly told her "No, he was just checking on me, which is what he should do" and we were not bothered about our whispering again for the rest of the class. Again, I think some of the reviewers take the mild boldness as something oppressive and if there is something wrong (ie you need to drink water because you failed to do so before class) you just need to be upfront and tell them that. They will understand. As for correcting your posture, yes they do this, but don't you want to be able to do the posture correctly? In fact, I've never been to a yoga studio, hot or not, that didn't involve the instructor coming up and correcting your posture, or looking at you and telling you to switch your legs in front of the class. I'm without a clue as to why this is made out to be so horrible. I have never personally encountered rudeness or been made to feel singled out, nor have I observed it. If you have to modify your posture for medical reasons, again, just be upfront and tell them "I'm doing it this way for medical reasons", otherwise they can only assume you are doing it wrong. I just can't imagine any one of the instructors I trained with being hostile about this. Rest assured that when trying to touch your head to your knee in a room of over 100 degrees, people are not caring about the instructor correcting your posture or what you are doing at all. They're trying to keep their food down and stave off dizzines and get just a little bit further in the posture that was giving them trouble the last time while keeping sweat out of their eyes. You might be surprised to know how you are actually not the center of everyone elses thoughts. This is *especially* the case while doing Bikram yoga. I have enjoyed every class I've taken at Bikram yoga. Finishing the very first class felt like reaching the summit of a very large mountain. The feeling is indescribable. Each class gets easier, just remember to hydrate before class, empty tummy and concentrate on your self. An awesome experience for me. read more

Great Bikram Studio. For those slagging it for being a Bikram Studio. That's not fair. If you want gentle yoga, there are plenty of those places. Why criticize a yoga studio for delivering the goods - 40C/105F! It would be like criticizing McDonald's for serving McDonald's instead of Taco Bell. It makes no sense. This studio has great moist heat, 3 walls of mirrors, spacious bathrooms. Just a perfect facility for Bikram yoga. No complaints at all - not even stinky... well, maybe a little. read more

I really enjoy Bikram yoga at the Milwaukee studio. I absolutely love the practice itself and the 26 poses (with the exception, I must say, of the initial breathing exercise (pranayama breathing), half moon pose, and locust pose). The heat, while intense, doesn't really bother me. The smell, which other reviewers have babbled about, is hardly noticeable (really -- what did they expect?) -- and it's not like you're going to smell that great after 90 minutes of profuse sweating in 105º heat. I arrive 20 to 30 minutes early in order to secure a spot by the mirror -- there are so many people in the room that my friend and I might not be able to practice next to each other if we arrived at a later time. I bring my mat, a full-sized towel to cover my mat, a hand towel to occasionally wipe away the sweat that pours down my face, and a water bottle. I store my things in the locker room while I practice -- there aren't locks on the lockers, but I never think that my belongings are not safe. I have never had a bad experience with an instructor. They are all very nice, helpful, and encouraging -- especially Claire and Julie, who are very nice (I've taken their classes most often). I didn't mind when they called me out for being a newbie when I first started, because everyone in the class has been there and knows how it feels! I think it fosters solidarity. I'm thankful when the instructors tell me to do this or that, because I'd rather know I'm doing something wrong so that I can try to fix it, instead of doing it wrong and potentially hurting myself (or not getting all the benefits from the posture). I can't believe that people have made so many asinine comments about the studio itself. The locker room is large, they have four showers, and they even supply plastic bags to put your soaking wet clothes in after your practice, so that you don't have to put them directly in your gym bag. There's a few chairs to chill out in after class, many magazines, and overall I think the studio is really comfortable. Seriously, if you want incense, music, etc., you are at the wrong studio. Bikram classes are much more diverse, meaning that you have a wider range of ages, ethnicities, etc. etc. than you see at a typical yoga studio -- and it's SO MUCH BETTER this way! The results are, I think, that people generally feel more comfortable and are able to focus on their practice rather than worrying about this or that. Everyone is sweating, everyone looks like hell, and no one's worrying about what anyone else thinks of them. I mean, I wear the tiny bikram shorts and I would NEVER wear shorts out "in public." Okay, I'll stop rambling on and on about the studio and how wonderful it is. But seriously -- if you're reading this, don't listen to the negative reviews. Try it yourself. Get down to the Bikram Milwaukee studio and prepare yourself for the most intense and gratifying workout of your life. read more

Bikram Yoga Milwaukee has two studios. One is located on the east side and the other in Brookfield. I've been to both. The Milwaukee studio offers more classes and is a larger studio. I wish the Brookfield location offered more classes but they are slowing adding more time slots. Tips ~ The Milwaukee location has street parking and can be challenging, so, get there early. The Brookfield location has a huge parking lot. If you are claustrophobic, be aware Brookfield's studio doesn't have any outside windows in the room. Think of giant bedroom. There is a bit of natural light that peaks in from the reception area. Milwaukee's location has two studio's. One has two walls of windows, the other studio has one wall. They both have a lot of natural light. Both studios are very clean and have dedicated instructors. I've seen a lot of instructors teach both locations. Last year they started offering Vinyasa as well. I've not taken yet, but will when my schedule allows it. I've heard it's wonderful. read more

Well maintained, friendly place to get into Bikram! I'd done yoga before, but never Bikram, and each instructor I've had at this place was great at encouraging and pushing me to keep up through the sequence, without going too far. It's intense, but fun! Huge pros: - gorgeous practice room with a back wall that just IS windows overlooking brewer's hill - amazing schedule flexibility with multiple well-timed classes every day! - everything is online -- you can buy/ pay for passes online - so convenient! I am so all over that! Slight warnings: - classes get PACKED on certain weeknights! So you'd want to show up 7.10 - 7.15 for the 7.30 class and set your mat down -- when the room is still, let's say, recovering from the previous session. - they make you bring your own towel + mat, or charge you when you forget -- which I'm not all that opposed to and kind of makes sense. Summary: I just can't WAIT to be in that hot hot hot room when the Milwaukee winter really sets in! read more

Most of the negative reviews here seem to be from people who are just complaining about Bikram in general - and the smelly carpet. Bikram is hot. Bikram classes are always the same 26 poses. Bikram studios sometime stink because Bikram requires his studios to have carpet. BUT- they are actually changing out their carpets right now! YAY! I do Bikram at home in LA and wherever I happen to be when I'm travelling. I really enjoyed this studio. Really friendly people and wonderful teachers. I'm knocking off a star because the floor in the locker room was pretty gross- and that should be easy to clean. There's a ton of space at this studio! It's one of the biggest I've ever been to. I really loved this studio. Great neighborly vibe. Hope to come back and visit again! read more

I can't compare this to other Bikram studios, so I can only give four stars, but I am a fan. I'm four classes in and I am liking it a lot. It's not easy. It is a definite effort, and your clothes and hair will probably be drenched in sweat by the end of a session. I have a few years of yoga under my belt, and I'm a runner who would rather sleep in than run at 5 AM to avoid the heat, so I'm used to sweating profusely during my summer runs. Even prepared for yoga and exertion in hot temps, this is still a challenging workout. When you run, sweat runs downward, away from your orifices. When you're doing Bikram, it will run wherever it is convenient. Sometimes it's your nostril. Sometimes it's your ear. You'll have sweat in every pocket of your body. It is invigorating, though, and restorative. I've found that at the beginning of class, I have the usual thoughts, worrying about life and getting annoyed by the person who unrolled a mat directly in front of me. By the end, I just don't care that much. Little annoyances don't matter. (but seriously, don't park your mat right in front of someone. Checking your pose in the mirror is important and it's kinda douchey to block someone's view. A foot or so to one side, please.) In summary, this is a good studio. I've had three different instructors so far, and they've all been encouraging and helpful, with plenty of instruction. The rooms smell amazingly clean considering how many people sweat in them. Update: I have since received the "how are you feeling" phone call. I thought it was odd to get it a few weeks into practice, instead of after the first session, but it was still a nice gesture. All I could say was "great!" Also, I LOVE how flexible I am. Running tends to tighten your joints, but since I've been taking classes here, I've increased my flexibility even while adding mileage. And, I think I agree with the person that said it doesn't feel like 105 degrees. It's still hot, for sure, and in my mind it's still worth it. The front room seems hotter than the back room, but most classes seem to take place in the back room. read more

Super great place to work out! I love going to Bikram when I get a chance, but I will admit that I'm far from a regular (and because of that, the session kicks my ass every time). I've read some of the other reviews, and I think it's important for people to remember that BIKRAM yoga is different from HOT yoga. Bikram sessions (any Bikram session, anywhere) is going to be exactly 90 minutes, the same 26 postures, the same breathing exercises, at the same temperature with the same humidity. It's all part of the practice. People who are complaining that for beginners this is too intense, maybe try hot yoga first (where things like time, poses, heat are all variable) and work your way up. Personally, I've never had too much issue with the class, even as a beginner. The instructors move quickly to fit the 90 minute time frame, but they are still very supportive of all students and no one judges you if you need to sit out for a few positions. Yes, it would be better if there was hardwood instead of carpet, but then people would complain about slipping on the wood. Pro/Con. I love going to Bikram and I think everyone should try it at least once! read more

GREAT Bikram studio. Those who live in Milwaukee are very lucky to have such a great studio available. I have done Bikram all over NYC, Long Island, and this studio in Milwaukee, and this is top 2 in my list. The studio is REALLY hot, as it should be... I often complain that Bikram studios aren't hot enough, but no such complaints here. The instructors always follow the Bikram dialogue and are very encouraging while still being respectful. They are all very approachable after class and I feel like they really want you to succeed and improve your practice. It's also a very large space compared to other studios I've seen, which I definitely appreciate. Complaints (and these definitely are NOT make-or-break... go to this studio ASAP!!): street parking can be difficult at peak hours, they seem to have a bit of an ant problem in the studio in the winter (how do they survive that Bikram heat, lol?!)... that's really it! read more

I think the negative reviews tend to come from people who aren't fans of Bikram as a whole. I'm a pretty new student, but I'm in pretty good shape. You will definitely sweat, but you'll get a fantastic workout out of it! It's nice that the class is always the same 26 poses, because then you know how much is left during the classes! They have an awesome one month unlimited trial practice and like other reviewers have mentioned, they call home to check on you after your first class. The instructors are incredibly friendly and helpful. I haven't noticed anything particularly terrible about the smell, but honestly, what do people expect? You're going to spend 90 minutes in a heated room doing yoga. It's probably not going to smell like a freshly washed load of laundry. Bottom line, check it out if you're interested in improving your fitness, health and well being. Also, if you want to lose several pounds in water weight and like being completely drenched in your own sweat. Bring lots of water and a towel! You will feel incredibly hardcore afterwards. And zen. read more

I have been practicing at Bikram Yoga Milwaukee since October of 2009, and I love it! I've been to many other studios in other cities, and very few of them compare to this one. It is well maintained, the staff is excellent, and the locker rooms are amazing. I've been to studios with NO SHOWERS before. These are great. The only con I can possibly think of is that parking can be limited during peak class times (usually the 5:30 and 7:30 classes.) All in all, a fantastic place to practice. I would also add that even with the GROUPON craziness that's been happening the past few days, Bron (the owner) has had extra staff on hand, opened up more classes, and been even more helpful and nice to all the newbies, who bring all kinds of questions and challenges! It's great having so many people interested in Bikram, I hope they stay with it! read more

Hot Yoga Milwaukee is by far the best of the best! Lots of awesome teachers & classes to choose from - there's something for everyone from beginner to advanced yogis. Large, clean changing rooms with showers, shampoo & hair dryers provided. Great place, friendly teachers - what more could you ask for?? read more

I once told a guy friend of mine that I wanted to start training in boxing, for fitness and self-defense. He asked if I wanted "real boxing" or "tae bo boxing," and I responded, "I want REAL boxing." When I walked into the well-known Los Angeles gym he had recommended, I was taken aback by just how real it was. The charming, cute guy at the front desk also happened to have one eye and cauliflower ears, there was a definite "man stench," and I was the only woman in there. I felt intimidated and never went back. The thing is, that was real boxing, and I just wasn't ready for it at the time. My loss. Why am I writing about boxing on the Bikram Yoga Milwaukee Yelp page? I shared that story because reading some of the reviews here reminded me a bit of myself in that boxing situation; that is, people often think they're looking for a "real" experience in something but don't actually know what "real" is going to look like, smell like, or feel like. I was first introduced to Bikram Yoga in NYC in the 90s. I usually took class at the SoHo location. Classes were always so full that I'd be making contact with the people on all sides of me during the asanas. The building was old. The "locker room" was unisex, if I recall correctly, and there was one little shower people could use for a mere 30 seconds for a quick rinse off. (I was also exposed to many other forms of dance, fitness, meditation, and movement in NYC as a drama student at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, and I took some classes at Jivamukti and various other famous yoga and Pilates studios.) When I moved from New York to Los Angeles in late 2002, I took Bikram classes at the headquarters with Bikram Choudhury himself. As yoga became more and more popular and mainstream, and as friends and family members of mine became yoga practitioners and instructors in other forms of yoga, I started to hear some of the negativity about Bikram the man and Bikram the yoga style, but I could never really relate. Sure, I think some people bring up some valid points. Yes, Bikram's personality is larger than life and more than a bit eccentric. So what? His 26 postures, in the particular order in which he teaches them, in the particular heat and humidity he uses - - - it does work. It changes lives. People wishing to become well-rounded yogis should indeed explore other styles and train with other teachers, but Bikram Yoga has great merit and definitely deserves its seat at the table. Bikram Yoga is not gentle. You don't chant. You sometimes want to strangle the instructor for barking orders at you as if you were in the military, until you learn to quiet your mind. You don't get different asanas every time. You don't get to giggle and talk with your friends, feel like a special little flower in every class, or do handstands or inverted postures. You don't get to play make-believe about being more enlightened than the other people around you. But it's real yoga from a man who brought it over from India. Can you imagine going to India and standing in a dirty, hot, stinky yoga room with "real" yogis? I think that would be amazing, but most people in the States seem to want a more sanitized experience. Yes, before Bikram Yoga Milwaukee transitioned to the newer "eco rubber flooring," there was a very mild hot and sweaty smell from time to time in the carpets. All Bikram Yoga studios in which I have practiced have had that smell, in varying degrees. (Have you ever visited a hockey or football locker room? Yuck. Those places are waaaaaaay worse than Bikram studios.) I have personally worked in the Bikram Yoga Milwaukee studio in exchange for classes and therefore personally sanitized that carpet and the locker rooms on numerous occasions using an expensive, effective, and environmentally-friendly vapor steam cleaner called a "Ladybug." There is always room for improvement, of course, but the owner and instructors do care about both the facility itself and the many beautiful students who practice there. I have worked at the front desk, and the camaraderie I've felt amongst the practitioners has been delightful. Some people say that Bikram Yoga isn't for everyone, but I personally feel it is. After completing a strenuous 90-minute class in a 105-degree room, you're going to feel like you just did "real" yoga, like you just made it through a torture chamber in order to attain the euphoria available on the other side. In general, the more often I take class, the more at peace I am with myself, the better I do in class, the more at peace I am with myself...and the cycle of self-realization and self-improvement continues. I have learned so much from the people in Milwaukee. I will miss it very much when I move back to California. I look forward to continuing to explore non-Bikram yoga studios as money and time permit, but in my opinion, a consistent Bikram Yoga practice is an amazing gift to give yourself, and the Milwaukee location is a wonderful place to do so. read more

I went to this studio for the first time yesterday. The people that I encountered as a new member did not impress me, and were borderline rude for not being helpful at all. I am a very active person and really enjoy hard workouts. This is definitely an intense workout. The concentration and effort required is demanding, and this is not what bothered me at all. I enjoyed that aspect of the class. What bothered me were the details. The studio is not pleasant. The ceilings look really gross, the floor looks like cheap laminate tile, there are fluorescent lights on the ceiling that shine in your eyes all class long. I generally expect yoga studios to strive for a zen-like look and feel. No music is played, which may be characteristic of Bikram style, but was a very disappointing detail for me. The instructor was the same person who checked me in, and perpetuated her rudeness throughout the 90 minutes. She points out all the newbies to everybody in the beginning of the class, and was a little obnoxious in drawing so much attention to us throughout the class. She scolded me for wearing a heart rate monitor in front of everyone, and yelled at some women whispering to each other - the scolding turned out to be incredibly more distracting than the whispering, which I didn't even hear in the first place. She was not at all open to any kind of modifications that she didn't dictate. In general, she seemed to treat us like children rather than adults. Is that traditional Bikram style? I think that Bikram is something that I would enjoy, at a more well put-together studio with more professional instructors. read more

Boot Camp + Native American Sweat Lodge = Bikram Yoga 4.75 Stars I thought I had a pretty good grasp of yoga coming from a dance background which required taking yoga classes as well. But, I am now humbled by Bikram. I thought I was quite good and now, I'm like a baby chicken just cracking open it's shell. It's not in the Iyengar style which I was taught ... For example, the tree pose I know and mastered is nothing like the tree pose here. They do offer Vinyasa class as well but I don't care to do 50 downward dogs in one class. I LOVE hot and humid weather but I had never considered going for a run or taking yoga in this temperature. I've also never considered myself a sweaty person before, but now I'm doing laundry every other day. I don't find that there is a bad smell from the sweat in the studio or the locker room which some people have mentioned. The only smells I've encountered twice were from someone close to me in class, but that's not the studio fault. The studio is not as aesthetically modern looking or as clean (shower stalls could use more floor scrubbing) compared to other places, but this is HOT yoga. During a Bikram class they don't play music or burn incense. So, don't expect that. But like my view on food, I prefer quality food over the atmosphere of that restaurant. I wish we could take advantage of the actual river view more however, like Invivo does, but the mirrors are very important. Service is the MOST important, and all of the instructors are above average if not excellent. Claire is just a doll and gives praise as well as constructive criticism. Corn has this contagious enthusiasm and intellect with a dash of some spiritual insight... I really enjoy his style. I had only wished that Bron, the owner of Hot Yoga, would have given me a few complimentary classes after my last month of unlimited yoga when I had a bad cut on my hand and my dog died. I only made it to 4 classes that month which meant I spent $25 per class. I thought initially that each class would be different but it's the exact same routine each time... 26 poses except for one. The lonely spinal twist at the end... hmmm. At first I wanted more variety but I'm realizing that it is about mastering a particular art form. Anyway, I have this dread and anxiety before I go to class (like every time) and then by the middle of class I'm just there, in the moment, being a champion (even if I fall out of a pose)... And once class is over, a sense of calmness and great sense of accomplishment carries me through the rest of the day. I look really unattractive during class; purple face, crossed eyes, sweaty hair, sweat dripping into my nose, ears and eyes, etc. But I clean up well ;) After about seven weeks in to going (approximately 3X per week) and I noticed mental, emotional and physical changes ... positive ones. I am a stronger person because of Bikram. I've also lost about 4 lbs and I am more toned. It's a weird feeling when you feel compelled to do something that is so challenging on a regular basis. Considering the copious amounts of alcohol and late nights I was accustomed to before starting classes at this studio, I feel that I am evolving. I'm not up to going every day yet, but those days are never as good. I get excellent sleep when I take a Bikram class and many people talk about that in the changing room. Now I understand how my dog feels when she gets an hour long run by the river one day versus when I let her out a few times in the yard. There's no comparison. *Bring water bottle, yoga mat, large towel (or two smaller ones). read more

I love this studio. It's clean, welcoming, well-priced and organized. I recently moved to southern California and didn't realize how good I had it until I left. The instructors at Hot Yoga MKE are warm and welcoming. If you're new, they always say the goal is just to stay in the room and do the best you can. If you're more experienced they'll occasionally correct your poses or point out things you should do differently, but it's all for the betterment of your practice. Hot Yoga MKE has hardwood floors, lots of mirror space to track your poses, plenty of room for you to move during most classes. The bikram studios I've now found in my new SoCal city all have carpet (gross), are super small and packed (annoying), and the instructors all instruct through a sound system with a microphone in a small space (weird). Milwaukee, enjoy this wonderful studio! read more

THIS is bikram. It's not pretty, it doesn't smell nice, but you will feel the best you've ever felt before if you give it your best for the 90 minutes. It's not for the weak. It's super intense and while they may not have different "levels", you have to realize that you're only competing against yourself and you go in there with the intention only to do the best YOU can do, on that particular day. The instructors here are VERY helpful and supportive. The locker rooms are very clean and it's nice that they have blow dryers so you don't have to bring your own. read more

I've been to Bickram yoga in Milwaukee several times when I'm in town and will continue to go there cause I like doing Bickram when coming back home to visit family. This studio has lots of room for improvement. The smell can be fixed by getting new carpet and then requiring towels so people take their sweats home with them rather than leaving them in the studio. The instructors need to move around, make corrections, give demos, and provide info on the MANY benefits of each pose. Let's hear some inspiring Bickram stuff and not just dialogue. I can just get Bickram's tape if I want that. There are at least three fine tuned corrections for each pose, but the instructors never discuss any of these and many of the students are just not doing the poses correctly. People are also moving into the poses WAY too fast which sets them up for failure and frustration, but instructors NEVER tell students to go slow. THE GOAL should be to STAY in the pose, but you must move MUCH slower to hold each pose. Bickram says if you see yourself moving in the mirror, you are going too fast. The primary focus in the beginning should be to go slow and breath at all times. Always watch yourself in the mirror cause that is where the real learning takes place. Also give the students a little love and encouragement. This after all is very hard stuff to do. Tell some stories about yourself and how hard it was when you started. I saw a student who pretty much got kicked out cause she wasn't doing the poses. Felt very bad for this student. The instructor should have simply said that she can stay in the room, but must lay all the way on her back since this is the fastest way to cool down and recover. Then once you have recovered, try again. Please make these corrections and show your students how Bickram yoga can be a major life changer. Show some love, encourage them and help them to do these difficult poses and stay with the program. John read more

Great Bikram studio! I've been out of the game for a while, but finally decided I wanted to get back into Bikram and this place didn't disappoint. Everyone is very friendly, the facilities are clean and I leave feeling exhilarated...and soaked. Ha ha. Definitely check it out! read more

Bikram was not my particular cup of tea, but I do love a hot yoga practice. With my $30 unlimited pass (new student special), I practice nearly daily, mostly taking the Vinyasa classes. Towards the end of my pass, they introduced Power Flow and Hot Pilates as well. The teachers were varied and excellent, and I loved the wide range of classes and times. Among all the studios I tried in Milwaukee, Hot Yoga Milwaukee was my favorite for their ample room, excellent class selection, and great instruction. Although they don't have misty essential oils or world music, HYM was welcoming, instructive. In my 30 days, I grew from a wobbly beginner to a more stable beginner. Highly recommend: Justin, Hope, Michelle, Rae, and Alex. Each one of these teachers helped me push through a plateau and gain more confidence and peace. On the other hand, if you are not a fan of hot yoga (or sweating profusely) or prefer to have a more mystical, spiritual experience, you might check out some other studios in the area. To each her own! read more

Stinky carpet in the studio...blech. Showers are great, but floor is slippery. Don't enjoy the militant teachers yelling at you if you modify a pose due to injury, etc. I don't plan to visit here again...especially at $18 per class!!! read more

I love this place. I love that if I take a month off the instructors say to me "nice to see you back at your practice". I like that after ninety minutes I take the best feeling shower of my life and that it's always stocked with plastic bags (for our sweat soaked clothes), shampoo (one less thing to bring), blow dryers (one less thing to bring), and interesting conversation. I have brought my brother and countless friends to try this place out. I wish that I could get another "intro special" but I will pay to support this local establishment that teaches a global perspective on wellness. Bikram may not be for everybody but anybody is welcome. read more

Thank you for your recent follow up call. I came to Milwuakee the weekend of May 18-21 for my daughters graduation from Marquette University. She practiced at the studio her entire college career. She speaks well of your buisness and she was absolutely correct. I attended classes headed by Julia, Sara and Christine. All provided excellent guides through the Bikram system. Thank you and look forward to a return visit. I practice at Bickram Bethesda, located in Maryland just north of the D.C. border. If your ever in these parts please...... Bill Ivory Kensington, Maryland read more

Eeeeew, carpet & sweat not working for me. Please, please replace the carpet with wood/stained concrete, that moldy smell just seems so toxic..... otherwise amazing studio! Even with the smelly carpet I'm going back! Still giving it 5 stars, you will be hard pressed to find a better studio in WI. read more

The instructors I've had so far are not welcoming and have an attitude at both locations, added to a hard and smelly floor. Have experienced much better. Not returning next week! You can definitely get a better experience elsewhere at other studios. read more