Tips for Newcomers
Be on time (ASTEYA). We start classes on time. If you are a new student coming to class for the first time, you MUST be signed in and present for class at least 5 minutes before class begins. We open 15 minutes prior to each scheduled class so you have time to prepare, and being proactive by creating an account in advance makes that process even smoother.
Drink lots of water. Hydration is very important for maintaining energy levels and ensuring your body is ready to work! We recommend drinking at least 1-2 liters of water during the day of/evening before your scheduled class (and double that if you’re on your mat every day!).
Refrain from big meals (BRAHMACHARYA) for 1-2 hours before class. Light snacks, fruits, and vegetables are recommended if you need a quick energy boost before you practice.
Wear snug-fitting, light weight clothing. Sport tops, tank tops, and yoga shorts are recommended for women, and yoga/workout shorts or swim trunks are recommended for men. If you need good recommendations, Radiant Activewear is our resident yoga clothing company and has many great styles.
Prepare for success with the proper gear (TAPAS). All heated classes (Original Hot Yoga, Intermediate, and Fusion) require a yoga mat and a large yoga or beach towel. We have these available for rent at each studio. All other classes (Vinyasa, Slow Flow, and Yin) do not require a large towel; but if you are a heavy sweater, please bring one!
Leave your smart watch and phone outside the room (APARIGRAHA). Our yoga rooms are purposefully tech free. If you are under doctor’s orders to use a device for monitoring heart rate or other conditions, please just let your instructor know before class and keep it discreet. Otherwise, make it a habit to disconnect from outside pressures and to focus on yourself for the time you’re on your yoga mat.
And most importantly…come with a positive attitude and an open mind (AHIMSA). We’re each here for a different reason, so let’s be welcoming and accepting of each person who chooses to practice.
Preparing for your first class?
Awesome! Here are a couple of additional reminders:
Before Class
- We are open 15 minutes before and after each class. Our doors close once class begins, and close after class ends. For the respect and safety of all students and teachers, please be on time. If you’re in a pinch, please call the studio.
- Please bring your own mat, towel, water, shower towel, and any toiletries you need for your class*, and a change of clothes for afterwards. Mats, towels, water, other hydrating beverages, and yoga accessories/clothing are available for rent/purchase at our schools.
- Practice SAUCHA (Cleanliness). Come to class with a clean body, clean feet, and a clear mind. Avoid perfumes or scented ointments (Tiger Balm, etc.) as these can be amplified in the heated rooms.
- Leave shoes in the lobby and personal belongings in the locker rooms. We have plenty of storage space for these items and lock the front doors prior to class so everything is kept safe.
During Class
- Be prepared to stay in the room for the duration of class. If you have to leave the room, please do so discreetly so as to not interrupt other students during practice, and ensure the instructor sees you before stepping out.
- Please align your mat so that others around you can see themselves and the instructor, place your towel on your mat for heated classes and leave it on the mat for the duration of class. If you are practicing in the front row, make sure students that are behind you can see themselves in the mirror.
- Please refrain from conversation while class is in session. We have plenty of lobby space for you to socialize after class, but for many, class time is a welcomed quiet space to self-reflect.
After Class
- Complete your class in silence, exit the room quietly, and respect the others who choose to remain in a longer Savasana.
- Take all of your belongings with you from the locker rooms/ lobby. Yoga Factoryand Yoga Hive are not responsible for lost or stolen items. We do have a Lost & Found that is cleared out approximately every two weeks. Please be aware that unless claimed/ notified, left items will be donated after two weeks.
- Be respectful of all teachers and students you encounter. This is an all-inclusive environment. Ensure you are timely exiting the school, but do enjoy extended conversations (or yoga buddy outings 🙂 on your own time outside.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot is it?
Our Original Hot Yoga Classes are taught at approximately 104 degrees. Other classes are between 85-90 degrees, though, always check the class descriptions!
What should I bring?
Your yoga mat, a yoga/ bath/ beach towel that will cover your mat (for our Original Hot, Intermediate, and Fusion classes), and water. If you don’t have these, mat and towel rentals are $3 each. We also sell a variety of mats, towels, water, yoga accessories, and other beverages.
What should I wear?
Wear clothes that allow you to freely move that you’re also comfortable sweating in. Yoga pants/leggings/ biker shorts, yoga tanks, sports bras and light t-shirts are common. Please also be respectful of others by keeping clean (body and feet) and avoiding heavy scented body products.
Should I wear my smartwatch?
No. Unless you are under doctor’s orders to wear a smart device for monitoring your heart rate or other condition, please do not bring it in the room. Make it a habit to disconnect with the constant pressures from these devices and focus on yourself.
I’m pregnant. Can I still practice?
Yes! We are happy to accommodate you during your pregnancy. Please check with your doctor first, but we have seen many yoga babies to term (and soon post-partum, too!). Several of our instructors have practiced throughout their pregnancies as well and are ready to help you. That being said, each body and each pregnancy is different. Listen to your body, your breath, and of course, your little one. Some twisting and all belly-down postures, as well as inversions, will likely no longer be comfortable or viable beyond your second trimester. Please alert the instructor that you are pregnant, even if it’s early in the first trimester. Please note this is intended for students who have an annoying yoga practice prior to becoming pregnant; we do not recommend starting a new yoga regimen during your pregnancy.
Is there a Yoga Factory/ Yoga Hive App?
Yes! We use an app through Walla. Log-in and search for Yoga Factory. You can list us as a favorite and track classes, make purchases, register for events, and see important news! Download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
I have an injury. Can I practice?
We approach our teaching through a therapeutic lens and can very often accommodate those recovering from an injury. We always suggest checking with your doctor to ensure you know which movements could aggravate your condition; a lot of the time, though, yoga is excellent for injury recovery (and prevention!). If a group class setting is uncomfortable for a period of time and you believe you would benefit from private work, please email us to inquire about yoga therapy and other one-on-one options.
I left something at the studio. Do you have it?
We have a lost and found box at the studio. Please come back and check! Note that items are generally cleared out and donated every two weeks.
I’m new. What do I need to do before coming to class?
Nothing, just show up 15 minutes before class starts to fill out a waiver and pay.
OR, you can make your online account prior to your arrival and purchase the new student special.
I need to pause or cancel my membership. What do I do?
All memberships require a 30-day notice in writing via email for any pauses or cancellations. Please know we can pause a membership rather than cancel for 30 days up to twice in a calendar year. This saves any applicable discounts and continues to support our schools. If you are initiating a cancel due to financial need, please check out our work/trade and scholarship options so we can help you.
What if I’m not flexible?
That’s why we practice yoga. This is a come-as-you-are space. The more you practice consistently, the stronger, more flexible, and more resilient you will feel. See for yourself.
What's your Privacy Policy?
All of your information is kept confidential in Walla. We don’t sell your information to anyone. Ever. And, you can always opt out of our newsletters at any time (but the content is really good :).
