Bikram Yoga Richardson

I had an unfortunately horrible experience at Bikram Yoga Allen location and left with an impression that they are very unfriendly. Today, I purchased yoga classes and attempted to try a Friday early noon class, only to arrive to be turned away, rudely. I got there couple minutes late, the class was doing the beginning breathing exercise. The instructor lady asked if I have been here before, I said this was my first time at this location. She then said if I haven’t been here before, then she can’t let me in (implying that had I been here before, I could have still joined the class?). Then she asked me to leave. While she was rushing me out, I asked if somebody can help me at least be entered into their system, (I have already PAID before I came to class), thinking so that next time maybe I CAN join a class that I paid for? She said no, and continued to rush me out the door. Maybe it was fine to be turned away from class, because I do recognize that I was couple minutes late. However, did she really have to do it in such a rude way? She shushed me with her hand signal and body languages multiple times and harshly said that I will not be helped because I needed to «get here BEFORE class.» She said I can try to come back to their afternoon class BEFORE class then ask to be entered into their system. According to their website schedule, this instructor’s name is Yassi. This was the only experience that I was allowed to have at this place. so, to be fair, I don’t know if she is the only rude one, or the whole place is so unfriendly and uppity, that they think they are too good to help people who want to practice yoga there. The only thing I know for sure is that I am very disappointed.

Bikram yoga is my stress relief! I’ve been coming to this studio for a little over a month now. I’ve done other types of yoga before but bikram yoga is completely different. The studio, the staff, and instructors have all been great. There are times when the studio doesn’t smell so nice but its expected with twenty-​thirty people sweating profusely in one room all day. I’ve talked about five of my friends into coming here and they love it now as well.

I really like this studio. I’ve been to other studios but this particular one tops my list.
Pros:
— IT DOESN’T SMELL LIKE THE DEVIL’S FEET. The studio is non-​carpeted (wood floors). I heard/​read that a «real» bikram studio has carpet but screw that. There’s no zen when you got the devil’s feet kicking your nose right in between your eyes for 90 minutes.
— staff is overall pleasant and engaging
— studio is clean including the lobby and bathroom
— generous studio space
Cons:
— If you are allergic to cats, there are 2 docile cats that roams quietly in the lobby. They don’t bother me but i can see that this may be a problem for those who are allergic to them.

One of the best yoga studios ever! I really love how close knit this yoga studio is. The teachers make an effort to get to know each student. I love how they are always using our names and then giving personal advice to you.
If you haven’t been to a Bikram Yoga class before, you should really know what you’re getting yourself into. So, Bikram Yoga isn’t for people who want a light exercise. It is a hard core ninety minute moving meditation. What does that mean? It means you are getting a full cardio workout at 105 degrees at 40% humidity. Translation: you barely can breathe so you really have to concentrate.
It’s difficult at first, but this place is especially addicting. I love coming here three sometimes four a week. The only part that sucks is the time commitment and you’ll have to double the frequency you do laundry. But other than that, this place is amazing!

I don’t usually write reviews on here but this place is so great I’ll make an exception! :) I’ve been going fairly consistently for about four months now and I love it here. It’s very different from other yoga I’ve done but that’s one of the reasons I like it. It’s the same postures every single class so you’re really able to work on each one, and then you can see how you improve as time progresses! All of the instructors are great. I like some more than others (just based on personal preference) but overall they all know what they’re doing and are always helpful, both during the class and after if you have questions. Yes, the room smells a little, but what do you expect when there’s about 40 people in there sweating it out 6 times a day? Otherwise it’s very clean and even the cats don’t bother me (and I have a slight cat allergy). They’re not actually in the studio, just the lobby, in case you’re wondering.
Anyway, I encourage you to give it a try. I’ve seen all ages, shapes, sizes, body types, races, and all walks of life come to the classes so don’t be intimidated! You’ll only improve the more you keep coming.

Still going at least five times a week! I adore this place. My fiancé attends and has lost 12 pounds & my 18 year old son is attending as well. They have a great schedule, consistency & discipline! I highly recommend this practice to anyone looking to propel yourself to another level mentally & physically! You will never look back!

I either love my visits here or almost want to yell at one of the employees. Some of them are very rude, including a young girl I often see at the front desk.
I am in my mid forties, out of shape, and not a twenty something. Yet *Some* of the employees are rude and seem to get off on the sense of power they get from teaching yoga. The actual workout/​poses itself is great, with the one exception that you are not allowed to leave the room, ever??? I have a strong feeling I’m not going to fit in here. It’s freaking 110 degrees. I’m not going to die for you, silly.
I’ve also been called out for completely contradictory things. One day in a particular pose you were supposed to look up. The next day down. We’ll I like down so down it is. They need to treat ppl with more respect. Sometimes I appreciate the corrections… It’s about ⁵⁰⁄₅₀ depending on if it hurts, feels wrong, and how it’s delivered.
Once I was fanning myself and the instructor barked, «that will only make you hotter!!» OH??? So what’s with the three giant ceiling fans in the room??? Maybe you need to remove them.
The positives are when I get one of the good instructors it is transformative. (Heather, Brian, Tamara are excellent so far). It’s a shame that bikram yoga as a style can be messed up by bad staff and I assume management.

Enjoyed (?) a bikram class while in town on business. Terry, the instructor was so welcoming and I definitely got a sense of the community vibe here. Huge room, super hot and sweaty… Which is a good thing if you know Bikram. Loved the needed and personalized corrections the ought the entire room. The showers were really clean, loved that they gave face, floor, class and shower towels. Traveling is a great way to check out yoga studios and this one is tops.

This location is not a win.
I bought a Groupon because someone said it was amazing — it wasn’t. I’m going to preface this by saying this is my first time doing bikram yoga, so I won’t be reviewing the actual practice itself — just the staff and establishment. I do athletic hot yoga regularly.
1. Front desk girl will not smile to save her life. Not friendly, even though I showed apprehension and told her it’s my first time with the practice. She did her schpiel about the rules and shoo’d me away.
2. The room DOES smell. Maybe it’s the 15 degree hike, but my hot yoga studio smells like essential oils. The gym locker room smell at this studio was nauseating.
3. Our instructor called out the newbies by name, presumably to make us feel welcome and make us feel like we are not just a number. I thought this was nice, until…
4. Sassy Yassy/​Jazzy picked on one newbie for not getting something right. She is studying to be a yoga teacher and Jazzy/​Yassy was like, «That’s definitely not what they teach in school. You say you’re gonna be a teacher?» Wow. Bitch much?
5. This instructor also yells at us to do as she says, but doesn’t do a single move with us. Her body composition makes me think that she cannot follow the moves. I have seen enough yogis and teachers to know when they can do something.
6. You are not allowed to leave the room at all. If you do, she shames you for it. Uhm, I’m asthmatic. The heat combined with the cat (OH YEAH THERE IS A HOUSE CAT IN THE LOBBY) induced my ASTHMA. Because I didn’t want to elicit an angry reaction from her (like someone else did), I just lied there trying to calm my breath.
In the end, I contacted Groupon and asked for a refund. The bad experience could be chalked up to that crap teacher, but YOU NEED TO INFORM PEOPLE YOU HOUSE AN ANIMAL THAT IS A KNOWN ALLERGEN TO A GIANT POPULATION.
Good day.

Grouponers rejoice! It’s definitely worth the buy when there is a special on there — and I do have a feeling that I will be a regular member once I’ve used up my passes I purchased from groupon.
When you walk in, you’re welcomed by the friend staff, one is usually the instructor of the session and the other is working front desk at the time. feel free to ask any questions if there is time!
Yes! Time! They are serious when they say arrive 15 minutes early — to receive a good spot, to relax before your session, maybe change or use the restroom. The classes start on the dot and no one is allowed to come in once the class has started.
Remember to eat a few hours before the class (protein and some carbs — lightly) and eat after the class too. Hydrating is important more so listening to your body and your teacher there too.
Newbies, be sure to sit by the big door/​window — there’s actually moving air over there!
Going two days in a row your first time will change your concept of working out in an 110 degree room.
And from the other reviews, no it doesn’t smell like stanky raw onion old sweat In there (unless someone carries that smell at the time), the floors are a great hard texture so you don’t lose balance whole stretching, and don’t be an idiot like me who brought a watch in that has an alarm! I completely forgot that my watch goes off — so I got in trouble for a second.
This is a great place to relax and learn discipline for your body and strength. The staff is great and the students are
Welcoming.

Bikram yogis are beasts! I came here on a Groupon and it changed my body in a very short period of time. This studio is beautifully put together: the floor, the bathrooms, the lobby –everything is amazing! The studio also has really mellow, sweet cats. I also love the proximity to UT Dallas. I will definitely find a way to come back!
Beware, the classes include sometimes stern correction because it’s about working out, not stagnating! The instructors here are very competent and can help you work around weaknesses and injuries, too.

The new flooring has definitely given the studio a new aesthetic apeal, i.e. no more sweaty stains and age-​old sweat smell seeping through the carpet. The studio can comfortably fit 30 – 40 people so it can get a bit hairy on the weekends, but on weekdays you’ll easily find a spot. This studio is good about etiquette so arrive early and make sure to read their website before coming if you’re a newbie. Times can vary but they’re pretty accomodating to schedules, and their website is comprehensive in explaining poses, studio etiquette, times, and specials. The first 2 – 3 classes can be challenging (especially in the heat), but hang in there and you’ll see the benefits… toned legs, glowing skin… um, yes please.

Well, they just had a makeover!!!
Yassi ripped the carpet out and put in new floors.
I have been here for one year, and have found a new religion!!!
Every single teacher here knows their stuff.
Staff is like family. They really take care of everyone who walks in those doors.
Anyone who was put off by the previous smell, come back!
The smell is gone. Some new teachers have been hired, and this place Rocks!

I like the format and the instructors. I truly get a good work out every time and feel the work the next day. My only complaint is the horrible smell and the roaming cats. It’s a turn off and has stopped me from getting a membership.
However I learned today they ate getting a make over … New floors. So maybe I will reconsider. : —

I am an absolute big fan of Bikram Yoga. When I first arrived in this country, I was in search for my new go-​to place for Yoga; even prior to my arrival — I was on the internet back home in New Zealand checking out where to go for Bikram once I relocate.
Bikram for me is essential. It is not only a form of exercise for me but also a form of meditation. It keeps me sane. It is my happy place. It brings me to Nirvana.
So the first Bikram location I tried is the one in Dallas in Lakewood, I didn’t enjoy this location as much for various reasons but we will not get into that.
Anyway, I was given a voucher to try Bikram in Richardson. This voucher was from living social and included 20 classes. Thanks Thy!
Now I live in Garland so it is a stretch of a drive and when I looked at my GPS to navigate myself there, I was reluctant. It is so far. However, I’m so glad that I didn’t bother to re-​gift the voucher because once I arrived that their facility, the staff were so welcoming. I even arrived right on the dot when class was about to start and they signed me up regardless. I love that they wait for people and have not turned people away.
Upon entering the Bikram room, I must admit that the odor is unwelcoming. Obviously the flooring is made of carpet and sweat residue is there, I mean you can smell it. I highly suggest that these floors be replaced with wood flooring or vinyl or whatever! Anything besides carpet please! Needless to say, this won’t bring my rating of 5 stars down. The smell is tolerable for me because I am there to workout and find Nirvana in the end.
The instructors are so helpful, the flow is great and they do not rush the class. Instructions are clear and understandable for beginners. I have taken two people with me here so far both of which were beginners to Bikram and they absolutely loved it. I give credit to the staff because I think it’s what makes the place. An added value.
So two things for suggestions:
1)Flooring needs changing.
2) Back home in New Zealand at my Bikram go-​to, at the end of the workout when we are all lying down in «Savasana» the instructors would dim the room (which you already do) and play soothing/​meditation music at the end when relaxing the body after the vigorous practice. This I think would be welcomed by all practicers and would be an added value to the business. Think about it guys!
Namaste.

A few things you need to know before you go:
1) There is a sweaty, moldy smell when you first step foot into the studio, but you get over it once you’re in pain (or relaxation)
2) Bring a yoga mat, bath towel, hand towel, and water or else they’ll charge you rental fee
3) Nothing in the studio except the items listed above
4) 26 poses repeated twice each, half are on your feet and half are on the floor
5) Take sips of water in between poses but not during
6) The locker room is clean but small. It has two changing spaces, two showers, and two restrooms.
7) If you’re allergic to cats, I don’t recommend going to this location.
8) You can find everything on their website, which I highly recommend checking out because there are lots of useful tips
I really enjoyed the session with Jennifer because she’s effervescent, encouraging, and inspirational. She told a few stories to keep us motivated. I do wish she did some of the poses with us to ensure we’re doing it correctly. Nonetheless, there were lots of veterans in my class so it’s easy to look around and see how it should be done.
My advice:
1) The less clothes, the better
2) Bring more water than you would normally bring to the gym
3) Sit close to the windows because the instructor will open it to let in some breeze
4) Stay in the back of the room if you’re new to bikram yoga because there are experienced people who will guide you through the poses if the instructor is talking too fast

This is by far my favorite bikram yoga studio! It’s pretty deep in the suburbs, roughly 15 – 20 minutes drive from the Galleria, but I love coming in for the 8:15pm session after work when I’m traveling to Dallas. The facility is clean and modern and the glass windows on the back wall of the studio help open up the space; it helps me feel less stuffy and claustrophobic. People make a big deal about the smell, but it is expected and you will get used to it. The instructors are professional and friendly. They push you hard, but they are very encouraging and attentive. Yes, it is expensive compared to other studios ($ 20 for a single class), but it is well worth it.
To those people looking to get into shape and achieve all-​round healthiness, bikram yoga is the best possible exercise /​relaxation activity! It’s a 90 minute session made up of 26 postures in a ridiculously hot room, half of which are standing postures (including a number of challenging balance and compression postures), and half on the floor. Bikram yoga is all about that balance between strength and flexibility, which is great for people who want to tone up without bulking up. These postures can really revitalize your bodily functions to flush out toxins, increase metabolism, and regulate energy throughout the day. It has changed my life!
If it’s your first class, be prepared to sweat like you’ve never sweat before!

I have been practicing at this studio since July 2012, and I LOVE coming here! Yassi, Christina, Jenn, Jennifer, Brian, Eugene, Misty, and Terry are the best instructors on the planet!
If you have never tried bikram yoga, i have two pieces of advice before checking it out:
1) hydrate, hydrate, hydrate BEFORE class!
2) don’t forget to breathe
I tell everyone I know about my bikram yoga studio because I love all the benefits I get from it – physical strength, weight loss, toning, mental focus, determination, improved will power, and spirital connectedness. Previously, my workouts consisted of running, weight training, insanity videos, and
, and I will say that everything that I gain from bikram yoga surpasses all of them.
The room is hot, but you’ll get used to it. The 90 minutes of 26 poses done twice through will kick your arse, but just come back and do it again.
My favorite thing that I have learned from yoga:
«If you can you must, and if you can’t you just… try.»

The friendly staff is always welcoming me to class with a smile. Though nothing and no one is perfect, the class’ do have a overall consistency with each instructor focusing on the dialogue and adding personal observations. As with a room that is hot and has consistently sweating human bodies, it may not smell like a flower garden, the studio is kept very clean and odor for a hot studio is IMO at a minimum. I try and practice 6 days a week and have attended for almost 3 years. I have discovered all my criticisms of studio have diminished as I have learned to bring focus onto my own mat and and let go of my notions of how things should be done. Physically and mentally I have prospered from my practice and have discovered a very sweet addiction. As En Vogue sang «free your mind and the rest will follow».

Found the yoga instructors to be a fairly obnoxious lot, running the gamut from sounding like auctioneers, to just seeming really vain and into their own personal fitness rather than trying to be helpful… the Billy Blanks tae bo-​looking guy in particular.
Their carpeted floor feels unsanitary, and smells bad. You have to get your face pretty close to it on several occasions, and it’s just not pleasant to think about all that sweat that has dripped onto it. They need to get some other type of flooring, pronto.