I have a love/hate relationship with Hot Yoga. I have tried a few different studios (in different states) and never got that feeling of bliss/happiness/peacefulness. Having worn out all the cartilage in my knee which makes any type of high impact exercise out of the question - I decided to try hot yoga again - to gain cardio benefits without the impact. While I am still not "in love" with Hot Yoga and keep thinking I am in hell during class - I have to say I am very pleased with my experience at True Hot Yoga. My heart rate feels like it is beating out of my chest - so yes, you do get cardio benefits without any high impact whatsoever! Can you believe you are paying to do yoga in a 105 degree room - in AZ no less? But it does make a difference!
The instructor is what makes all the difference. I agree with other comments that Kay is truly one of the best. Other instructors play their music too loud, move too quickly or don't really provide much direction. Kay, however, IMO is a notch above the rest. And like others have said - she does seem to care. Reminding people to work at their own pace and not feeling like you have to compete with those members who are more advanced. And trust me, they are there, sometimes you want to smack them because you think they are showing off, but truthfully you know it took some time to get there!
I also like that Kay mixes up her classes so it's not always the same movement every time. This studio does not have the yogis actually instruct so those newer to yoga may need a few times to get the flow by watching others. I do prefer the wood floor in this studio vs. the carpeted rooms in Bikram (sweat on carpet? no thanks) Right now the class sizes are great, but I'm sure once the new year flips over the classes will be packed for again which can be a turnoff - I like my personal space, what can I say? So if you are in the Glendale area, try their 2 week deal for new members and give it a shot yourself. You will never sweat so much in your life and that's a good thing!