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