Lately, in my quest for a healthier me, I have been experimenting with Bikram yoga and guilt-free desserts. Health and desserts, probably not words that should be in the same sentence .

 

I have tested a newly opened Bikram  yoga studio in North London, Bikram Highbury and Islington. The name is slightly misleading. The studio is actually located a good 8 minute bus  journey from Highbury and Islington. Perhaps Bikram Holloway road would be a more accurate description.

The space is brand new, in a slightly soulless newly built residential area, a stone’s throw from Emirates stadium. They offer a convenient online booking system, which allows to plan the week of Bikram practice in advance. The facilities are similar to other Bikram studios. It’s possible to purchase water and the use of a towel for the day.

I visited the studio twice in the past week, and both times I noticed they still have a few teething problems in the overall organization, and more importantly with the consistency of the temperature in the room. The studio tends to heat up way more than the usual 40C, particularly on the left side.

Apart from that, I have attended two classes, and enjoyed them. I actually somehow pushed myself way more than in other studios.

Price-wise they are in line with other studios in London. They are currently running a introductory offer, 20 consecutive day pass for £35, which I have purchased. I think it’s a cost-effective way to check if the studio works for you, considering that a drop-in class costs £15. Unfortunately they don’t accept Amex, and they charge an extortionate £2.50 charge for the use of credit cards.

If you live in North London, definitely a studio to check out.

Bikram Highbury & Islington

Studio 19, The Studios Islington

8 Hornsey Street, London N7 8EG