Hot Yoga Pasadena by FAR is the best all around workout studio in town. Val the owner and all the teachers are just fantastic. If you are just starting out on a fitness program or if you are looking for a new challenge. Hot Yoga Pasadena has you covered. Thank you to ALL the teachers for passion and commitment. It does not go unnoticed :) Silvia read more

Never in a million years did I think I would try hot yoga. Why would I voluntary stay in a 100 degree room??? After months of neck pain from an accident, my doctor recommended hot yoga. I've taken close to 10 classes and love it! I'm not going to lie, it's HARD and can feel stuffy at first but you'll get used to it. I definitely got a little dizzy during my first couple classes but I kept going. It gets better, just hang in there! I always feel great after class, it relaxes you but also gives you energy. The teachers are wonderful, I recommend Brooke if you're a beginner. Most classes are 90 minutes long and you do the standard 26 poses. The studio is modern and clean with a shower/lockers. Parking is also really easy (there's a private lot or you can find street parking). As for pricing, I started with 5 classes from groupon and later purchased the 10 class deal for $150. It's a little pricey but the benefits are amazing! Items to bring for class: Yoga mat, beach/bath towel, hand towels to wipe off all that sweat and lots of water! read more

I love this place! I've been doing many different types of yoga for 20 years. Although I enjoy different types of yoga and their benefits, Hot Yoga is the fountain of youth to me. Love Val, the owner. She makes you feel welcome and supports your practice. Today I told her my back was off a little bit. She came over several times to make sure my alignment was correct. She is always happy to answer any questions you may have. I have practiced at five different Hot Yoga studios in the last year and a half, and countless other studios for different types of yoga. This is my favorite studio! And every teacher at this studio is great! read more

COVID SHAMING is not ok ....... I was feeling 100% healthy and am fully vaccinated so I did not wear a mask like many others in yoga class per the owner, Val's, studio rules. No one but a sociopath would go to 90 minute 105 degree humid class knowing they had Covid symptoms and on top of it not wear a mask. After I tested positive, the Pasadena Health department called me to track where I had been the week prior. I mentioned Hot Yoga and that I wanted to tell the owner so she could reach out to the people in the class since I got symptoms soon after but I wanted to remain anonymous because I thought she would be upset. Go figure. The Pasadena health department contacted her without giving my name. Val's response to this information was out of control. She reached out to the customers who were in the class by emailing, calling and texting, multiple times asking the person to name him/herself and tell her who had Covid and basically who told the Health department. The Health department told me, Val had no right to ask for my name and to ignore her. She was not stopping. On one of the emails, she said, she doesn't like liars so she would give us one more chance to tell her. She found out it might have been me so sent a final text saying, I was selfish, I should be ashamed and demanding I apologize to her for having Covid in her studio, all while I was very sick at home. Even though the way she handled this was horrible, I found out no one else got Covid so at least something good came out of this. I am a usually a huge supporter of small businesses especially since my family owns a small business but when a business owner personally attacks a customer that's another story. Especially for something like a person's right to privacy regarding his/her's health. I felt I should warn others about the experience. She was defintely not namaste. I hope this situation never happens again to anyone else because this is the last thing someone needs to deal with when they are trying to heal. She is now replying to my review by resorting to name calling and bullying. I don't even want to go there..She knows nothing about me just that I was the unfortunate customer that found out I was contangious for Covid in her studio. If defending myself for being sick and warning others is bad Karma, like she wished upon me, then so be it. Val's text: "Well. I assume this was you. It can't be anyone else, because everyone else was kind, understanding, helpful and wanted to make sure I was ok too. I have to say Susan, I can't believe you. First. I hope you are ok. but I would love to know why you came to my studio "with symptoms" which was told to the health officer???? How could you do that? Without a mask I had to ask you to put on. Then I assume you practiced without a mask? No apology to me , my business or my students whose lives have all been effected. Our policy is only to come if you are 100% healthy. Did you just ignore that? How about a call to me out of courtesy? You don't like how I handled this???‍ do you have any shame or think of anyone other than yourself. Clearly not. I would love to know how you got covid and brought it to the studio so I can learn to prevent it from happening again Feel free to reach out one day and do the right thing. Explain yourself and apologize for what this caused This will eat at your conscious unless you have no regard for others. I'll be here. Take carerigh read more

All I can say is UN - FREAKIN' - BELIEVABLE!! How does this place get so many 4 & 5 Star reviews? One of the 5 star reviews mentioned there is always room in a class, of course there is always room. You have to be either a special person or extremely devoted to put up with the smell in this place. Another 5 star reviewer mentioned that the studio is clean, the studio may be tidy and free of trash and clutter but a clean studio would not create a horrible smell. There has to be tons of bacteria growing in this place to smell like athletes foot. Another 5 star reviewer said the sweat smells, sorry you are not smelling sweat. I've been to other Hot Yoga Studios and they do not smell like this. My assumption is that because this studio uses carpet, the accumulated sweat and bodily fluids left behind are festering in the heat and creating the putrid smell. I just wish I could get a refund from Groupon on this purchase, probably won't happen. I just hope this review will help others before they lose their money. read more

I wanted to pamper myself and try something new. I was deciding between a Facial or Yoga classes. I am so glad I picked the yoga classes, and specifically this type of yoga. By the way, I never did yoga in my life except for a class at a LA Fitness. And, I just felt bored and unchallenged. The BIg pluses: (1) After only 2 classes, I can already feel my back stronger and less tense. (2) The fact that it has helped me sweat. I don't sweat very much. I could not even break a sweat at the 200 degree Celsius Hot Sweat Room (Bulhanjeungmok) at King Spa in NJ. But in this case, I am always drenched by mid-class. My clothes are as wet as swimwear. The additional big plus of this is that my skin feels smoother. So, I am also getting a facial too at the same time. (3) I also feel so much more relax when I take this session after work. After this hard session, and a hot shower, I sleep so much better. I look forward to this continuing challenge, and it should be very enjoyable during the Winter months. read more

Hot Yoga Pasadena - Party Time (15th Anivers) : GlutenFree cookie, Vegan wrap, & Kimchi Sushi, Falafel, Fried Pita, Cilantro & Red Bell pepr hummus - Yoga Near Me - Pasadena, California

Can't wait to try out some classes! I respect the name change tremendously and hope that other studios will follow suit! :)

Let me tell you that this review is about 3 years overdue... Bikram yoga had changed my life and the quality of it. Bikram taught me patience, more than anything and my old injuries are memories, at least when I'm consistent with my practice. The studio is always clean, especially taking into the consideration all the amount of sweat happening here. I can only imagine how hard it is to keep it that way. All teachers are nice, I guess it's all about who are you more comfortable with... Personally my favorite is Jeff. His classes are more challenging but he makes it fun and pushes you to your best. And he remembers all the names. Megan and Jesse are pretty fun as well. Once you survive all the heat and humidity, you will feel like a newborn baby:) Thank you all for making my life better. I'm addicted:) read more

I don't give many Yelp reviews, but it's something I've decided to start doing more often, especially for the places that are important to me. I've been coming to this studio for years. If you practice this type of yoga, you will feel better in pretty much every aspect of your life. Back pain relief, mood enhancement, core strength and flexibility are just a few of its many benefits. Don't be afraid of the heat; I promise after a few classes you will get used to it (and even begin to crave it.) This studio has truly great teachers (many whom have been there for several years), and the owner, Val treats everyone like family. The studio has been recently remodeled, and it features locker rooms, showers, and ample parking. I do a mix of the 60 and 90 minute Hot Yoga classes and I also love the Hot Skulpt class when I'm looking to mix it up a bit. My favorite teachers at the moment are Jeff, PJ, Byron and Val (of course). Happy Sweating. read more

Thank you Val and all the positive, strong teachers at Hot Yoga Pasadena. I'm a Yogi of 31 years (gulp), a Bikram certified teacher, and I originated and ran 2 Yoga studios in Pasadena (including Bikram Yoga South Pasadena in 2002), before moving to Ashland, Oregon this year. Hot Yoga Pasadena is a positive, clean, and fun environment with plenty of free parking. The original 90 minute 26 posture Bikram series is taught daily, in addition to a shorter one hour 26 set, and Val's own "Hot Sculpt" class which is a blast. Showers are an asset, and the staff even washed and folded (!) my accidentally left behind sweaty clothes. Way to go Val and all staff! My full thumbs up to all bodies who practice Yoga, or who are thinking of beginning. Jenny Buchanan read more

It was overall a good experience. Yoga is not my thing anymore but here the environment is not bad. But definitely if they encourage customer wash the feet before entering the practice room would be better(: read more

UPDATE: I have received a series of messages from Val, the owner of the studio. (The original message came from an unverified Yelp account, which I find to be very unprofessional. But she has since invested in an "Owner" account.) She has been fairly relentless in asking me to provide an update, but because I believe in fairness, I will comply. Val had asked me to clarify that I visited the studio, in late 2012, prior to the renovations that have taken place. I am sure that she has invested a lot of time, effort, and funds into the improvement of the studio and that it has become an accommodating studio for practicing yoga. She also asked me to state that I paid $18 for the class and then an additional $2 for towels. As many of you know, I travel frequently and whether it's been in Astoria or Madrid, first-time visitors usually receive a mat rental and/or towel rental gratis. As my original review states, there were other aspects of the experience that I found to be very disruptive to my practice. As many of you also know, the past year or so has been a very difficult time for me personally and yoga is my way of finding peace. When others do not take their practice seriously (or at least demonstrate common courtesy for those who are making an effort to concentrate and meditate), I find that it detracts from the experience. My original review is below: Southern California is supposed to be the birthplace of Bikram yoga in the US and all, but I was not overly impressed with my experience at this studio. In Manhattan, with some of the most astronomical real estate prices in the country, a single class costs $17. Pasadena isn't exactly cheap, either, but $20 for a single class? It would be one thing if the studio was very modern, but the changing room/ locker room was small and cramped and I didn't see anywhere to shower (I believe this was due to some sort of renovation taking place when I visited). Also, there was no bathroom in the changing room area - the bathroom was in the hot room itself. It's an odd configuration that felt disruptive as we were starting the breathing exercises and people were still lined up in back to use the loo. Wherever I have practiced Bikram, the "be quiet in the hot room" policy has always been strictly enforced. As I was stretching prior to class, there were a whole bunch of ladies chit-chatting and having a conversation that would have best been left to have over brunch. That, and people were conversing with the instructor (more on her in a minute) which I found odd and disturbing. I'll admit the one guy (in camel pose) moaning about double vision after too much gin the night prior was funny, but probably not appropriate while I'm super-focused on not dying myself. My instructor (I cannot remember her name) was of the drill-sergeant variety. She also liberally called particular students out in class, myself included. I have no problem when an instructor calls me out to make corrections, but when the guy next to me is picking his wedgie during savasana (he was uncomfortably close to me) and in general, won't lie still, and isn't reproached - meanwhile I'm getting flack for falling out of the balancing stick posture - I'm not cool with being called out. Namaste - thank goodness I was just visiting! read more

I love that there is ALWAYS ROOM in a class, and that the teachers all offer step by step direction- I like that it is personalized... names are remembered and that shows and if the big difference between here and say, corepower. I dont quite understand the carpet and wonder about how much yucky sweat is on it, and am used to the studio being cleaned inbetween classes like at a chain yoga place- but at the same time, the class physically feels so good after 90 minutes that I dont care. That would probably be the only downfall for me. I would definately recommend to a friend, and have ;) Also- Vals sculpt class is awesome!!! read more

I love this studio!! Teachers are supportive and friendly, and the studio is clean every time I go there. The owner Val and staff keep it up really clean and beautiful. I have been to most teachers' classes during my 6 years with this studio, each one has a bit different approach as to what to focus and I like the variety, since we do the same routine 26 pauses every time. Their advices really helps me to improve my practice. It's interesting how your body feels differently every time. You can really tell how you feel that day because you do the same routine. Even when you are tired and your body feels heavy, the heated air helps your tight muscles to relax. For anyone who wants even more variety, they have 26 Plus with different pauses, Hot Pilates, and 60 minutes express class, too. Your first few times you may feel dizzy (you may not!), if you do, try to come again within the same week to feel the big difference with your 2nd and 3rd class. It's just so good your your body and mind :) read more

I rarely buy anything, try anything, or eat anything without checking reviews. But I've never written my own before. You know how sometimes you read product reviews on Amazon that say: "I never write reviews, but this item was SO GOOD, that I just had to!!"? That's kind of how I feel about Bikram Yoga Pasadena. I wanted to write a review because I was really grateful and happy about my first experience. But I also felt it was important to write a review, because if I had done things my way- because of the negative reviews I read about this place, I wouldn't have ever gone! After reading some of the unfavorable reviews, I was really anxious and scared about getting scolded or yelled at for not being able to do all the poses. I have no core-strength, I don't exercise, I'm really small, and my whole life I had just kind of accepted that I am weak and always will be. Bikram yoga sounded too intense for the likes of me. Fortunately, Jessica M. wouldn't take no for an answer as she knows I've been suffering from a herniated disc and chronic pain in my lower back. She really believed that Bikram yoga would help me. She told me that we would be attending the 11:00 class on Monday morning and I stressed out about everything and read through all the information on the website twice: "What if I black out? What if I throw up? What do you wear to practice yoga? What do I eat? DO I eat? What if they yell at me? What if I get the "Nazi" teacher that is referred to in the one-star review below? I'M SCARED!!!!" My friend patiently humored me and answered all my questions and off we went. From the beginning of class our teacher, Val, made me feel welcomed and as comfortable as you can be in a hot, humid, sweaty room. =) When she corrected me on different poses, I didn't ever feel like she was irritated or demeaning. She just seemed like she genuinely cared. The class was 90 minutes long but around 45 minutes into it, I just couldn't do it. I was either going to black out or throw up! Oh please no. So I sat down... And then I started to feel anxious that maybe I was sitting for too long since I was the only one not standing and I tried to force myself to get back up. Here's when I knew that Val really meant it when she told us newbies to take it easy. SHE'S the one who told me to sit back down and to just rest. After that, ALL/ANY anxiety I had about "getting in trouble" evaporated. But I'll be honest with you guys, near the one-hour mark, when I was sitting down and chanting to myself not to throw up. I made up my mind that I wouldn't ever come back. Yes, I didn't get yelled at which was a huge relief, but what was I thinking? This is way too intense of a workout for someone who doesn't exercise ever. It was too hot, I was too sweaty, my muscles were too trembly, my stomach too queasy, no no no no no. And then we switched to the sitting poses and as I participated in those, I felt my nausea go away. And I was able to complete the rest of the class without taking a break. Now, Jessica had told me that she reason she goes to Bikram yoga is for the feeling you get once you're finished and you walk out the door to your car. AND I TOTALLY UNDERSTAND WHY NOW. When that cool air hits your tired, sweaty self. IT FEELS AWESOME! :D I felt so happy, so proud! And more importantly, I felt like I could do it again. So I signed up for a month. And went back the next day. :) And was able to complete the class without needing a break. It really fills you with such a sense of accomplishment! And again, was corrected by our teacher (Shannon) with no judgment- just sincerity and patience. In conclusion: Don't let the bad reviews taint your view of this studio if you're on the fence. Just give it a shot and decide for yourselves! To think that I might have let a few people prevent me from doing what is probably the best thing I've done for my body, ever, makes me worry that Yelp may be a disservice more than it is a helpful service. Just try it once for yourselves, okay? And then you can make up your minds. :) read more

While I love the idea of hot yoga, and I'm sure Bikram can do wonderful things for people over time, I DO NOT recommend holding your practice here. The place REEKS of body odor. Really, I nearly gagged when I first walked in. Even after you "get used to" the smell, you smell it again every time you go to the carpeted floor for a pose. I've washed my clothing three times, but I swear I can still smell the place in them. The instructors are drill sergeants and are inconsistent. They yell at you the whole time. They seem to each have slightly different ways of doing the poses and will call you out by name if you do the pose the way you learned it in the last class with a different instructor. They mock people for doing poses poorly, reprimand you for taking too many water breaks, command you to stop resting, and demand that you do a pose beyond your body's current capability while simultaneously bragging that they can't sit there and watch you hurt yourself. I feel that the place is unsanitary due to the odor, and unnecessarily risky for injury since you are not allowed/encouraged to practice at the level where your body is at. read more

Bikram Pasadena has been a wonderful community to me. I came in November 2010 pretty much beat up from working and going to school full time. During the last year of my studies, my stress level was to the roof. Unpleasant changes such as weight gain, lower back pain and near exhaustion just about did it for me. I heard about Bikram yoga from a good friend and decided to try. I tried another studio earlier that month and came to the Pasadena studio because I was looking for more than a workout place. From the girls at the front desk to the instructors, I fell in love with this studio. I felt in love because the instructors care and teach us well. This is a hardcore and highly specialized yoga practice, so having professionally trained instructors is a must for me. I know I'm in for a great challenge in a safe environment. You will notice that some days you come in ready to rock n' roll, other days you wanna run out the door. It happens a lot. Sometimes that affects how you perceive the class that day. You just keep coming back. The results are remarkable. I lost over 15lbs. Went down from size 16 to size 12. Whoohoo!! And NO more lower back pain - advil is part of the past. When I hike or walk, I don't feel sore anymore. I sleep 6-7 hours straight. My focus at work is great. Because the studio has so many different hours, you can come after work or in the middle of the day. Plus, someone well-trained is there to tell you what to do 90-hot-minutes at a time...that's sweet! Expect to feel uncomfortable, wiped out, motivated, angry, challenged, surprised, excited, hot, all of it,...then expect to feel relieved, calm, re-energized, light!, distressed, inspired AND part of a loving community. Namaste! read more

They've completely remodeled and upgraded their studio with a state-of-the art facility since the last time I've been here, which was over 5 years ago. The facilities itself is now larger and cleaner, and the yoga room has expanded in size to accommodate 40-50 people comfortably, plus it's furnished with flotek antimicrobial flooring. They also have showers now in the men's & women's locker rooms. This is one of my favorite features of this yoga studio! There is nothing like a nice shower after 90 minutes of sweating my butt off in 105 degree heat. Plus, there's nothing quite like that moment you walk out of the studio after taking a shower, feeling totally refreshed. This yoga studio also has some of the best instructors as well. My favorite instructor there is Brooke. She is simply the best! She's so passionate and so good with her instruction, it just motivates me to push myself beyond my limit. Y Thuan is also a really amazing instructor that I would recommend, and of course Val is awesome as well. Overall, the instructors here are excellent. Plus, they are on top of it when it comes to utilizing technology to get their members connected. Their class schedule is updated regularly on their website and mobile app. Yes, they have an app, and you can manage your account, and do stuff like view how many days you've attended this month, through their app! Also when you walk into the yoga studio, there is no sign-in required. You just scan your key tag, and you're in the system with your account info updated, and you're good to go! Overall, I'm very happy with the way this yoga studio is set up, managed, and operated. It is a state-of-the-art studio, and it has all the features that are geared around making the member experience enjoyable while attending yoga classes at this studio. This is the best studio I've been to so far, I love this studio! Bikram Pasadena is really where it's at! read more

Yoga has been a big part of my life since I perfomed as a dancer in China. I also supplement the yoga with weight training with Todd Norman At the Cutting Edge In Lake Forest. He is the best. www.cuttingedgeathletics.com. Through this combined program I have been able to maintain the suppleness of a dancer and the body and health of an athlete. Even my skin has remained beautiful of course with the help of CAROL at Serenity Skin Care in Alhambra. She is tops as an aesthetician. I point this out because maintaining your youthful, natural beauty is truly a multy disciplined effort. Working with this team keeps me motivated and up to date. I love training at Bikram because it is HOT yoga 90-100 degrees. College Wrestlers work out in similar hot rooms to make weight. Even when I am tired these sessions rejuvenate me. These sessions are very helpful for arthritis sufferers. The class lasts 90 minutes. Lots of stetching Bikram has a seven day schedule. Classes 6:30 AM to 8:15 pm. It's great for me because of the flexibility it affords me. The cost is affordable as progrms start at $89.00 monthly. If you go to their website www.bikrampasadena.com you will get a thorough description of their program. GET started it will change your life.. read more

I've been coming here everyday this month and it feels great! I felt like I was dying the first time I tried it out and going into each pose I felt like I was going to faint. But their yoga instructors are super encouraging and full of energy so I decided to come back everyday to experience the great feeling they told me about. Now that I reached that level, I love coming back and it's been easier since then! Their changing rooms and bathrooms are lined with absorbent matts and they have two showers in the girls room. The only down side is that they don't have much bathrooms--one in the changing room and one in the yoga room. It also kind of smells from the amount of sweat accumulated in the room, but it gets better as the class starts and with the humidifier. They also have a parking lot in the back so it's easy to find parking! read more

I usually switch up my workouts every two months and this was my workout for two months. I've been to both Bikram Yoga South Pasadena AND this one. Both have great teachers. Both get crowded, but this one smells a bit... I don't know why? TEACHERS: Mondays @ 430 and 630 - GREAT TEACHER. Nafesa- I can't spell her name - but she's sooo good. She's intense and tough and will call you out on poses, but she makes you work harder. (If you have issues, tell her beforehand). CLASSES: The class a standard bikram class - 90 min in heat. CLEANLINESS: I don't know why... but it smells in there. the bathroom is in the middle of the room so you have to walk through the heat to go to the bathroom and walk back out through the heat. Overall: Great workout. I love Nafesa. Tips: * If you have any bone/joint/feet problems, let them know beforehand * Bring a huge beach towel, a small hand towel, lots of water, and a yoga mat * Drink lots of water throughout the day and TONs after the workout * If it's cold outside, don't walk out from bikram into cold air, it'll put your body in shock * Coconut water and bananas are great before class read more

I love Bikram Yoga Pasadena! To understand why, I first need to explain myself and my situation. I have cerebral palsy and use a wheelchair to get around and have limited/ different use of my body. I wanted to try bikram for two reasons: 1, heat is really good for my muscles which are otherwise REALLY tense and 2, I wanted to figure out a way I could do a cardio workout in my wheelchair. I emailed many studios, explaining my situation and none of them seemed enthusiastic about me practicing there or about helping me figure out how to adapt the poses for my body. Until I emailed Val at Bikram Yoga Pasadena who was more than willing to work with me! She suggested I come to one of her classes and see what we could do together. She immediately thought of ways to adapt the class to meet my needs while still kicking my ass (in a positive way!) When I told her I wanted to practice two times a week but couldnt make her class both times, she suggested Brooke. Brooke has been equally awesome!! I have had less pain after 10 classes than I have had in years and I sleep much better. Im so glad I found this place! read more

Took the community class with Erin. (Congrats on the baby by the way!) ((This is a first timer's experience review. Hehe.)) I definitely came over prepared for my first class with a block and strap which I didn't need. Luckily I came with enough water and super absorbant Yoga Rat towels. (o: Walked in, the ladies at the counter were really nice, but not overly nice or pushy for sales - it was more like a firm but kind way. Filled out some preliminary paperwork, paid $8 for the community class, then checked out the women's changing 'room'. It's was just more of a space with a few cubbies. You could leave your stuff in there but there weren't any lockers. There was a fridge for cold drinks for sale and some clothing on the wall for purchase. Inside: The room was large and smelled like mildew -- although I've been told this is normal for most Bikram schools by another student. The carpet kind of put me off (even though I know most schools use it) because I'm horrified of foot diseases (TERRIFIED) but i was able to scope out everyone's feet and it looked safe enough. The student just told me to shower when I got home (like who wouldn't LOL). We started the class and sadly, I pretty much died. The fans were on before class but she turned them off when class began and the heat just really got to me. I guess I'm one of those people that need a banana an hour before. Also, the lunge poses were all done on the carpet (instead of your mat) which to me was sort of odd because you have more chance of slipping, at least for me. After I finally hacked my way through the standing and balancing postures with frequent sitting, we got to the floor yoga, which was dreamy and MUCH better for me. She did turn on the fan a few times and open the door for a breeze which was so nice. (Room was still 105 though.) She does instruct corrections but she's good enough where you don't need too much of a demonstration (and you can also watch the kids up front). She doesn't really 'single you out' or anything - it's more like helpful. She didn't pick on anyone repetitively though. I don't mind - I just smile and laugh because it's fun and I'm there to have a good time and learn how it's supposed to be done. :D Overall I'd say it started off off-putting but ended really nicely. As promised lol. If you want to be reborn - physically - do Bikram yoga. read more

If you want an intense workout, this is it! You literally work your body inside and out. I love it. I come here often with my sister and mom. You practice yoga in a hot room. During the practice, it literally feels like hell. However, what keeps me coming back is how you feel after your practice. Be sure to come AT LEAST 10 minutes before practice. This way, you can pick your spot. Do not be afraid to be close to others because classes do get very packed. Also, trust me, the workouts are so intense, you will not have time or energy to focus on anything but yourself. For first timers, I really recommend coming probably 15 minutes before class. Make sure to bring a large towel to throw over your yoga mat and a small face towel. If you do not own a yoga mat, you can rent one. I recommend wearing shorts and a tank (the less the better). Also, be sure to hydrate yourself BEFORE class! This definitely makes a huge difference. The teachers here are very very friendly and supportive. When I first came, I was very shy. Even now, I rarely go to the very front of the room. The teachers pin point new students to make sure that you do the positions correctly. Now, I am grateful that they do pin point me during class and fix my "bad habbits". It really does make a huge difference in my workout when I am doing the postures correctly. Expect to be sore if this is your first time. I highly recommend it for EVERYONE reguardless of your age and gender. You will feel and look better. read more

This is the only bikram yoga in the area but it is far in quality of what I've heard from other bikrams. I did the newcomer trial thing for a week but had to stop after a couple of days. Heads up to bikram- having carpet in a heated yoga room is not a good idea. It's smells horrendous, but besides that my eczema became inflamed after my third visit there and I had a terrible rash all across my body. I had to immediately stop. Granted, this was a couple of months ago, I doubt they have changed their flooring since. I really do want others to consider other places due to hygiene reasons- it can't be clean to be on carpet where hundreds of people have sweat on. Some teachers immediately will learn your name and will not be hesitant to call you out. Tell them about any physical handicaps you might have. read more

I'm a HUGE HUGE advocate of Bikram Yoga! My mom's lost 20 lbs because of it and it's personally changed my life. I've frequented other Bikram locations, including South Pas & La Canada. Pasadena is at the bottom. Pros: Most of the instructors are great. I love Val & Jeff! They pay attention to your form and improve your practice. Cons: Facility is below average. Everyone is on top of each other when entering/leaving and inside the room, if it's busy, you'll probably be inches from someones feet, gross! Smell is excruciating. Bikram also has a different aroma, but its not supposed to stink this bad. It's nauseating AND distracting to my practice. Lastly, the heat is very inconsistent. One day, we had an instructor who left the doors open for more than 5 minutes until someone said something! Other times, the heat was too weak. Ultimately, I wouldn't spend my money on it. I'd rather go to La Canada, even though its further from me. read more

After having a bad experience at Bikram Yoga Downtown LA, I continued to look for a place more welcoming, and boy did I find it! Its been 1 year since I took their first class and I haven't looked back (except during postures) Even before the remodeling (they now have changing rooms, showers, lockers, heating system, filtered water dispenser and lockers, simply a beautiful studio!!!) the studio, the staff and community have always been awesome! As a newbie to the practice they welcomed me and have really helped me grow in my practice. For anyone in the area looking for a great "facial" "acupuncturist" and "shrink" ...all you need is Bikram yoga Pasadena!(Val said this once and it just stuck in my head) They have some of the most inspiring and welcoming teachers who will get you in line and help you build a backbone (literally!) All the Teachers at this studio have something different to offer and I just love all of them!!! Adrienne has some of the most inspiring and informative classes! She oozes with so much love! Jeff is a tough cookie but he will get you where you need to be! He is amazing! Ive taken one or two of Natifa's classes and those ain't no joke! She really pushes you and gets the "greatness" out of you! Ytuan has such great energy and such a soothing and energizing class. Marta has such relaxing classes and she really helps with explaining the postures. Jesse is so hype! He is so inspiring and fun, his classes always leave me feeling revived and alert! The owner Val also gives some of the best classes as well, she is just full of great energy and humor.... I could go On and on and on about all the amazing teachers but every persons experience is different and you really need to experience it for yourself. If you've never done Bikram yoga before, this is the best place you could possibly pick! Best of luck on your search! read more

I've been to other Bikram Yoga locations and I know a lot of yelpers usually say something about the stench and given that a lot of people sweat in a heated room, it would have a smell. But for some reason, this location does smell extremely bad compare to other locations. - Some instructors could be really rude. Unlike other locations, the instructors do not give you a hard time when you stop and drink water. For beginners, sometimes you just have to rest without getting scared too - No showers and only 1 restroom and the changing area is way too small - The 6:00pm class is the most packed out of the rest of the classes, so you should be their at least by 6:15pm to get a good spot. Some regular yoga goers like to be next to each other and like their regular spot so when they ask you to move because they are all packed in one section just say "no." If you have a great spot, keep it. + They sell cold coconut water and water for really cheap read more

After months of having my sister bug me about going, I finally decided to give it a try. The first time I did it, I'd never sweated so much in my life. The second time it felt like hell, and the third time, well the third time was the charm for me. Twenty-six poses, 90 minutes, in 105 degree heat. Drink a LOT of water before, during, and after. I find it tricky sometimes to go in with an empty stomach, so I always have to time it right. They recommend not eating 4 hours before, or you might vomit. Oh, and just because you're in shape doesn't mean this class will be cake. I saw this really fit dude one time before class doing all these sit-ups and push ups (it was his first time). The poor guy could barely hang and looked like he was going to pass out in the middle of class. Pace yourself people! Props to my fave instructors Shannon, Nafisa, Caroline, Val, and especially Jeff & Crystal. These instructors are attentive, interactive, and push you to pose correctly. I like when the instructors tell you WHY the pose you are doing is beneficial (e.g. massaging digestive organs, better posture, joint relief). There are some instructors that take their sweet time with the beginning poses and rush the last few ones, which are equally important. I've also heard from Val (also the owner) that they are remodeling the studio soon, so hopefully it will be nicer and bigger. Some tips: -Try to get there early and get a good spot. I recommend the area near the back doors. -Get a spot that is NOT under a light. You'll thank yourself later when you start doing the floor poses; since you won't be directly staring at it on the ceiling. -Please be courteous. Be mindful of your neighbor and respect the savasana. -If you feel like you're getting a headache, buy a coconut water. It will replenish the loss of electrolytes. -Bring cash if you plan on buying drinks. Minimum purchase on a credit/debitcard is $10. -Try an 8:15 PM class. There's something about walking out of class at night that makes it that much sweet after a workout. -Relieve yourself before class ;) -Wash your hands after. I'm surprised more people don't. NAMASTE! read more

My friend introduced me to this place and that was my first time trying Bikram Yoga. Before class, I freaked out. I think it helps if you freak out because when I went into the class it wasn't as terrifying as I had imagined. It just felt like summer in Taiwan. But yes, the room stinks! What do you expect? It's a humid room with no ventilation and a bunch of sweaty bodies. I think I've seen (or imagined) a Glade in one of their outlets. Instructors tend to pick on the new-comers because they remember your name. But you shouldn't care bc everyone's suffering in there and nobody cares. I kinda wished the instructors would show us how to do the poses more bc I'm not really sure if I'm doing it the right way. But that's ok. Right or wrong, I'm still sweating! I can't do most of the poses bc I'm not flexible at all. But who cares? No one's judging you. I'm really there bc I don't sweat normally and I feel like all the toxins are trapped inside of me. And by going to Bikram once a week I feel like I'm sweaty out the toxins. Even if it really doesn't, I really like to think it does. Anyways, I'm not a hardcore yoga person and I already enjoy this. I wouldn't say it's super fun, but it just feels good to sweat. Make sure you don't eat a couple of hours before going in and to breathe during class. read more

I was pleasantly surprised by this studio! 1. Brand spanking new. I cant stand when the studio smells like armpit, I already feel like I'm about to vomit from the heat so I don't need to smell the stank! But this place, I felt was very clean and recently remodeled. The locker room was super cute and had shower!!!! Shocker! 2. Employees were super friendly from the moment I walked through the door. I've been to my share of pretentious studios in the area. **cough cough, so. pass/atwater village** But not this place, Zach was super friendly, gave me the initial low down on the studio. Jeff the instructor was awesome! His relaxing tone while he gave instruction and adjustments, even checked up on the new people to see how we were handling class. 3. Other Yogi's, I know the studios cant help what type of clientele they bring in, but there were 3 people I had conversation with, asking questions about the studio, ect. and they were all super friendly and even gave me some tips as to where I should unroll my mat. Overall I'm very pleased and can't wait to go back tonight! Thank you Bikram Yoga for making my experience a pleasant one! read more

Nothing like starting your day off than with bikram in the morning. I decided to try this place since my friend who lives in Pasadena has to work today and I'm left to wander SoCal on my own until he gets off later this evening. The staff is very friendly. However, I was disappointed that the place is on the small side --- I'm used to the larger space and layout of the Funky Door chain in SF. The drop in classes cost $18. Make sure to bring your own yoga mat or expect to pay $2 to rent one. Also make sure to bring some face towels since I only brought a large towel for my mat but was left dripping beads of sweat during the class since no wash cloths were provided in the room. Finally for some reason, I felt like the room wasn't hot enough and the class was jam packed with students. Maybe I'm used to the really hot yoga rooms. In any case, I still got a great workout! read more

I tried to get over the man standing next to me who would fling sweat off onto me and/or my towel. The variations of Mr Sweaty McMan might just have an issue with keeping their bodily fluids to themselves right? I tried to get over people coming in late and being allowed to enter class. I also tried to get over the scary instructor who seemed to want us to work into the pain and made those 1.5 hour blocks suck-horribly...(umm maybe we shouldn't overdo it possibly causing injury? just a thought...) I also tried to get over the germ-ridden carpet (yes I know Bikram likes the carpet people but it doesn't mean I have to and there are other studios that buck the prescribed norm...) All this is to say that I like the practice of Bikram Yoga but seeing as I'm a germaphobe and get irritated by disturbances and scary instructors this particular studio is not for me. There are a couple of instructors here that are really great, supportive, and will push you without causing you to hate them or injure yourself. Unfortunately I just don't want to run the risk of being taught by Ms. Drill Sergeant or "accidently" poking Mr. Sweaty McMan's eyes out the next time he wants to share fluids. read more

This studio is very clean and well-ventilated. The instructors all know their stuff, and they will correct you in class if you need help with a move. PROS *Clean studio that does not smell *Experienced instructors *Well-stocked locker room *Reserve classes online or just walk-in *Parking lot in back CONS *Although the rule is not to chat in the hot room before class, some clients break that rule, chat, and ruin the concentration of others. *UPDATE: the studio allows the talking so keep that in mind if you expected to relax in the hot room before your class* *If you go to an early class and park on the street, you could end up with a ticket. OVERALL This is a modern studio where you will receive a great 90-minute workout. read more

When I first moved to South Pasadena in December of 2006 I started practicing here a few times a week after work. The 6:30pm classes were always packed, but not uncomfortably so. The only teacher I really enjoyed was Monica- but she stopped teaching at this studio and actually picked up a few classes at my dad's studio in Covina (shameless plug). The other teachers I just didn't vibe with- and why the eff did class ALWAYS run 15 minutes over? I swear that every week night class I took there lasted 1 hour and 45 minutes....so not necessary- a girl's gotta eat dinner at some point before bedtime! I know the studio just got a renovation over the holidays and maybe they put in some showers finally? Because when I was practicing there, no showers at all. read more

My husband has always been a fan of bikram yoga. I was unwilling to try it until recently because I am a recovering germaphobe and have some pretty severe reactions to heat. The hubs excitedly declared that I might be able to hang through a 60min class here after he tried it out. Apparently most Bikram classes are 90 mins. He promised that it was clean and I could always leave the room if I was gonna toss my cookies. I made it through my first class without leaving the room or stopping and felt amazing afterwards. I enjoy many types of yoga and found the queuing here really great. It has given me more body awareness and I am feeling way less tight from my usual strength based workouts. As of today I have tried 4 different instructors, they all had different vibes and were all really great. They give great individual adjustments which has been really helpful for me. I have even started doing the 90min classes.... Go me!!!! I love this place! read more

Having been to Bikram studios all around the US- this studio stands out to me as my *least* favorite. People cry a lot about bikram yoga being too militant, strict etc. but I've never been offended by a teacher until this studio. I bought a class pack and was so turned off I didn't even bother returning! I think such a large part of your practice is dictated by your instructor- and she was a HORRIBLE one. Never again Bikram Pasadena! However- the new facilities look nice so at least they got bumped up for actually having showers now! read more

In sum- great studio, great students, mostly great instructors. I've attended close to 20 different studios in my 6 years of regular Bikram yoga practice, and this studio has a relatively mellow energy compared to many studios (which is great!). I appreciate Val placing a thermometer in the room, and the instructors keep the temp within the goal range (another local studio leans more towards 117º F so any whining about it being too hot at Bik Pas is simply that- whining!) Overall, I like the instructors here and again appreciate Val (the owner) putting their names on the schedule on the website. This helps when there are instructors you just don't jive with. Personally, I prefer teachers who allow you to enjoy YOUR practice... rather than feeling constantly like you are taking THEIR class. I like having the mental space to meditate, and many at this studio allow you that room and respect. There are a few who are constantly calling certain peoples' names, and harping so much it's nearly impossible to meditate without blatantly ignoring them. The studio is usually quite clean and not horribly-smelling (come on- a little stink comes with the territory, people). read more

Nice, clean studio that takes their yoga seriously. I've been practicing bikram for a couple of years and this studio and its instructors are the only ones that don't hesitate to show proper technique and etiquette. It may be a little intimidating if you're a new student but don't let that stop you from coming back for more. Ninety minutes in a hot and humid room sounds awful and sometimes I want to throw in the towel but I feel amazing and incredibly empowered right after. Gross but I continue to sweat even after class. I've seen people get reprimanded for these things so be careful: *use the restroom beforehand, you don't want to go in the middle of class (rude and it disrupts everyone's practice) *no talking, fidgeting (you pretty much want to focus and stay still in between your poses throughout the entire practice) *bring plenty of water (don't step out of class to get some more - also disruptive) and wait until the pose is done to drink it *listen to the instructor You may feel like you're dying or you may want to die from all the heat but you get better with each class. Good Luck! read more

I love hot yoga, especially, the feeling of accomplishment after each session. The instructors are very patient and nice. People at the front desk are always friendly and helpful. However, the changing room and classroom is sort of gheto. Only a curtain between the outside space and the changing room, and only some hooks inside (no locker or shelf). So, leave your valuable personal belongings in the car, just bring your towels and mat, which are both required for the class and enjoy the yoga experience. read more