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Bryan Kest's Power Yoga
Category: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Yoga [Edit]
522 Santa Monica BlvdSanta Monica, CA 90401
Neighborhood: Santa Monica
(310) 458-9510
- Hours:
Mon, Wed-Fri 7 am - 10 pm
Tue 7 am - 12 am
Sat-Sun 8 am - 9:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
157 reviews for Bryan Kest's Power Yoga
157 reviews in English
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Review from Liza Jane J.
Sunland, CA
Updated - 4/26/2012 31 Check-ins Here
Confessions of a yoga-junkie.
After years of coming here consistently, I feel renewed and refreshed every time I come to Bryan's class. Since I started practicing here, he has added meditation and different sequences to his flow. No matter what he does, Bryan's class is an amazing refuge for anyone lucky enough to be in that space! When he leads the class he strips away any of the unnecessary layers from yoga and brings it down to the essentials - awareness and breathe. He is so funny and his candor in class is as refreshing as a cold glass of coconut water!
For anyone new: come early to grab a spot and open up your ears and heart. Bryan doesn't usually demonstrate poses but rather walks around the room and inspires us all with his energy. If you have a chance, let Bryan know it's your first time. He'll look out for you and if you need it, lend you a hand. He helped me with my bow pose yesterday and the result was incredible. He is truly a caring and compassionate soul.
You can expect a really deep and sweaty practice. At the beginning of the warm up, there maybe be a few slow vinyasas that segway into some intense vinyasa. Expect a cardio workout with your practice Usually the class ends with core work and a sweet meditation at the end.
If you have any doubts at all, please come here, you will love it!
I see how more and more my yoga mat is my temple. I've learned to be compassionate, especially to myself, be humble, not so judgmental or distracted by other people. In yoga class, for that hour and a half, I've learned to pay attention to my own shit - all thanks to Bryan and the practice. Check his schedule online to find out when he is teaching, he is on worldwide demand (literally).
Bryan brings laughter and realness to his teaching that makes his class so grounded and for me so profoundly satisfying.
Bryan's class is not for the claustrophobic or sweat-o-phobic. There will be massive sweating and detoxing guaranteed. Come early if you want to ensure your spot although I've never once seen a person turned away because sometimes even the upper hallway gets filled with yogis.
When I moved from LA for awhile, Bryan Kest's Power Yoga was always one thing I TRULY MISSED (more than mexican food and In n Out!!) Now that I'm back, I take every opportunity I can to go. If you are lucky enough to live or to visit LA, come check it out!
My only wish is that I lived closer so I could roll out of bed and into class!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/15/2009
An effective teacher helps students discover one of the greatest lessons, the teacher within. This… Read more »
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Review from Jessica S.
PACIFIC PLSDS, CA
4/2/2012 1 Check-in Here
Great class!
Came here hoping to try Brian's class but had another teacher, who was still really good.
I tend to be picky about locations, the studio, and yoga teachers.
I found parking very easily in an office building across the street.
The studio was hot but I could still breathe, so it was okay.
The teacher gave a challenging class, spoke well, but transitions could be a little more smooth.
Good thing I came with a friend, otherwise I never would have found it.
RFD is a few steps away, so you can get something healthy after if you're hungry.
I would definitely recommend this place, and come here again. -
Review from Janice M.
Marina del Rey, CA
3/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
Yay!
I was a 'yoga hater' for many years - and I completely love Bryan's yoga class. No frills, just an approachable, fun and challenging class.
I try to go as often as I can! -
Review from crystal b.
Manhattan, NY
5/12/2012
Hello All!
In from NYC & what a refreshing YOGA class!!! My hammies are killing, but in the best way possible :-)
Travis was my teacher both times I attended the 2nd street location, he was VERY SERENE, not alot of chatter, perfect instruction, spot on. Great vibe thru out both studios, outside lobby, inside lobby, very Noncompetitive atmosphere. So happy I had the opportunity to practice here on my vaca. It is such an awesome concept "donation only", but I hope all the students pay SOME, this place is TOO awesome to be undone by people not being honest with the honor system...
Much thanks Santa Monica Power YOGA!~!!!~~ -
Review from Erica M.
Santa Monica, CA
4/27/2012
1 hr 30mins sessions. Get there early classes get full. 2 different locations. Each instructor is different so its good to test out a few. I love it!
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Review from Trisha W.
4/22/2012
This is where it started. Amazing, life changing. My FIRST yoga class was here in 2004 it was the Sunday morning 7am class. Good times. Get here early.
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Review from Robin S.
2/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
I was discouraged by the size and amount of people at first, but I was hooked after
my first class with Bryan Kest. I never sweat this much at any yoga class! Now I go weekly and hoping to add another class or 2 in the future. -
Review from Jordan A.
Honolulu, HI
12/7/2011
I respect Bryan Kest and his ability to aquire a following that confide in him to provide good yogic workouts. After going to his class for the first time, I realized that his yoga style wasn't for me. His New York-esque attitude paired with the 50 other yogis trying to attend his class weren't very relaxing to me.
I decided to give Jerome a try because other reviewers seem to love his classes and what can I say, I have a thing for the French. Ouf! (Phew!) He is an A-M-A-Z-I-N-G yoga instructor. Picture a manly French accent paired with a very knowledgable Sanskrit and anatomy background. One thing though, I have to say that his classes are intense ...and I mean INTENSE! I think the euphoria you feel after a session with Jerome is more a placebo for "OMU, I'm glad this is finally over" than a connection to your inner yogi lol jk ;) You can't help feeling good!
GO HERE! Breathe it. Love it. Live it. Namaste. -
Review from Ross K.
Los Angeles, CA
4/25/2012
Awesome teachers and a great environment to practice. Thanks for everything ya'll
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Review from Ami T.
Updated - 9/28/2011 83 Check-ins Here
Ok, I've contemplated whether I should share this with yelpers or not, but I have probably gotten more info off of yelp than I have given it, so I'm going to share this with you all.
Best parking for SMPY East is at Santa Monica public library, which is across the street from the studio. You can enter the parking lot from 7th St. It's cheap ($1/hour) and you will never get a ticket. It looks like a lot of the reviewers find the parking here to be a pain, so I thought I'd share this tip!
Still, the BEST time to take BK's class is at 8am on Sundays. 2 Hour pure bliss, and there are lots of free parking on the street!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/21/2009
I've been going to Bryan's class for years now. I'm on a continuous yoga-high, because of his… Read more »
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Review from CeCe C.
8/9/2011 6 Check-ins Here
KEST is the BEST!
My 600th review goes out to Bryan Kest's Power Yoga Studio in Santa Monica! I LOVE this place!! It's donation based (give what you can afford)! Great people! Great energy! Whenever I'm in town, I try to make it to one of his classes on a weekday at the SMPY East on Santa Monica Blvd. Parking can be a bit difficult if you can't find any at the nearby public parking garages on 4th St.
I'm still very much a beginner at yoga so I try to only go to his Level 1-2 classes. Once I accidentally went to a Level 3-4 (not knowing) and I was wondering why the poses were so much more difficult! hahaha
My advice if you're a first timer (esp to Bryan's classes)
- Get there early (15-20mins if it's with Bryan)
- Bring your yoga mat, a towel to put on top of it, water bottle
- Wear breathable and comfy clothes (it gets really hot in there once you start doing the routine)
- Bring cash to put into the donation box!
- Have an open mind!
Go there with emptiness! Leave all of your worries behind, and relax and meditate for just 1.5hrs! Bryan has so much experience and words of wisdom! You'll truly have an enlightening time!
I would seriously fly here just to take his class! (wait... I already do that! :P)Listed in: every hundredth review
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Review from Kristy L.
Santa Monica, CA
3/4/2012
I can't do yoga anywhere else! All of the teachers here are really great and genuine. Rudy and Anaswara especially. At first I wanted to run out of there because the classes can get so full but I actually learned that I don't mind being packed in because it adds a good energy to the room. I always feel like I get a different work out and love the satisfaction of really sweating.
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Review from Samantha W.
Los Angeles, CA
10/1/2011
i drive from downtown los angeles to go to this studio 4 times a week.
the studio is great --but I LOVE my yoga teacher, vytas. I like my yoga strong, hot, and honest... I never leave here un-satisfied... ever
Your yoga practice is personal, and so you need to try different styles and different teachers that speak to you... there are a lot of different teachers at SMPY so its a good place to sample teachers.
namaste :) -
Review from Sharr K.
My friend Cindy, a poweryoga veteran of 13 years was finally successful in converting me and my sister into yoga-holics. Yes she has tried for at least two years trying to get our butts into that studio in SM. It was April of last year when we both decided that we should go. Cindy did warn us that the East studio is a lot more grunge than the West studio. She told us to brings lots of towels and drink plenty of water. But that was it!
When we got to class (the East studio), we placed our mats at what looked like the end of the class. Our teacher that day was Vytas, who was a sub for Bryan. Well it turns out that the teachers walk around the class the entire time and we also quickly learned that our spots were actually infront of the class. But we forged on strong.....we weren't giving up and who cares everyone will think we're douches. Finally 90 mins of hell was over.....boy it kicked my ass. I never sweated so much in my life nor exerted so much effort to learn some of the most simple poses. My sister and I were hooked from that day on. We couldn't really figure out exactly what the determining factor was, but we did remembered the yoga bliss we felt walking out after class. It was priceless.
When we finally had Bryan teach the classes again, both of us had an innocent crush on him. Bryan IS the perfect man....manly yet gentle, strong yet vulnerable and he knows all the right things to say always at the right moment when you need it most....he IS the ultimate Guru. I brought new blood to Bryan's classes and not surprisingly all the girls I'd bring would have a crush on him. We have the utmost respect for Bryan and if it wasn't for his continuous love of yoga (which he's been practicing for 30 years) and love of his students....poweryoga wouldn't be what it is today. In some ways, Bryan is a healer.....as he's definitely healed and nourished my soul after each time I've taken his class. And I am extremely grateful.
Bryan does travel extensively all throughout the world to teach yoga....which is a downside to all his devoted students back at LA. Luckily I found another teacher (with a different style) Rudy Mettia over at the West Studio, whom I have grown to admire greatly. When Bryan travels...I'm at Rudy's classes. When Bryan's back...even Rudy's taking his classes too. Everyone loves Bryan!
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Poweryoga......highly recommended. BTW, some of my favorite teachers Bryan, Rudy, Vytas & Anaswara.Listed in: the West side (a.k.a Santa…, Burn Baby Burn....
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Review from Justin W.
Santa Monica, CA
8/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is good tough yoga. I went with my friend and she told me it would be "athletic". It was definitely a challenge! I'm in good shape and bike and run more than 150 miles a month, but this class was a butt kicker. Which I really enjoyed, because most yoga classes aren't athletically challenging in the way this was. We did 3 sets of 100 rep ab crunches! This is unheard of for yoga. At least the yoga classes I've gone to before.
The classmates ranged in skill levels, but most were pretty advanced.
The class is donation, so bring a five or ten.
I am going again tomorrow! I can't wait! -
Review from Maple S.
Venice, CA
2/10/2012 6 Check-ins Here
Best yoga teacher ever. period. F*&% yeah!
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Review from N M.
Santa Monica, CA
9/21/2011
I've been going here for years, and the teachers are all very talented. It is no BS yoga with a serious spiritual side. You won't leave here dry (ie very hard work outs) but different teachers have very different styles, so I would try a few of them.
Be warned this is not a typical west-side "yoga works" type environment. By this I mean, classes don't always start on time, they can get pretty crowded (watch for neighbors sweat zones) and you pay by donation. All these things have their pros and cons, it just depends on what you like in a studio. -
Review from Colleen V.
Manhattan, NY
8/11/2011
Just one class with Bryan will change your life and outlook on the world.
Definitely worth the parking hassle, long line outside the studio, and pounds of sweat you'll be dripping during the 90 minute class. You might struggle if you're a beginner, but Bryan's patience and sense of humor will help push you through your vinyasa.
I've never felt so refreshed and rejuvenated after a yoga class until I took Bryan's. Seriously will never run out of good things to say. Try it, you won't regret it. -
Review from Brian S.
Manhattan, NY
7/2/2011
Kind of an odd review here - because I've actually never been to this studio. I actually live in NYC. But they have delivered a major yoga coup by making their classes available online, either through streaming or download. For $12 a month we poor east coasters get to enjoy what's going down (dog) in Santa Monica, and there are months worth of videos - I've been using this service for about two months now and haven't even made it through 25% of the routines, and I take these classes at least 5 times a week now.
Yes, we're missing some of the energy of attending a live class, but the QUALITY of the yoga instruction here is simply the best I've seen, and I've definitely made the rounds of yoga studios here in NY.
You'll see lots of men in these classes, much more than I've EVER seen in a yoga class, and I think that's because the instruction doesn't shy away from physical challenge. You will sweat and shake, albeit in a sweet and calm way.
At the same time the instructors balance this out by insisting on treating the entire class as one long meditation. I've taken hundreds of yoga classes elsewhere, but these guys really get the yin/yang just right and I've made advances in my practice, both mentally and physically, that I didn't think possible. My body has changed - yeah I'm much more flexible, but I'm noticing muscles in my legs, shoulders, arms, abs and even neck that I didn't know existed. But even more important is the difference I'm feeling in my ability to focus and to remain calm in challenging moments in my life.
And, might I add, all in my friggen' living room! I hope they keep expanding their video library, and even add some sophistication to the organization of it, i.e. allowing you to sort by difficulty level.
Bottom line: BK digital down-down for the masses. -
Review from Deirdre A.
Berkeley, CA
7/23/2011
Best. Yoga. Ever.
Bryan & Vytas.
Transformative. -
Review from Kristina S.
Los Angeles, CA
3/28/2011
This place, and all of the instructors, rock! I've taken several different classes with Rudy, Vytas, and Bryan, all amazing in their own unique ways depending on what kind of work-out you are looking for. If you're a first-timer, I would recommend going to Rudy or Bryan's class because they are very good at explaining the positions and letting you go at your own pace. This does not imply that they are by any means "easy" classes, they are just suited for a variety of levels. Vytas' class for me was very intense in a good way, but I don't think I could have survived it if it was my first time. You always feel kinda lame when you have to get into child's pose while everyone else is doing headstands...
I tried venturing off to Hot 8 down the block after the great groupon deal, but I didn't love it as much as I do here. The work-out was great, but they didn't pay much attention to the spiritual, meditative aspect of yoga. Plus, the classes were pretty homogenous and I felt like I was in rags compared to the head-to-toe lulu lemon regulars. I missed the down-to-earth, true-grit yoga!
Anyways, take any of the classes at Bryan's studios and you'll love it. If you like having your own personal bubble, you may have to get over that, because the classes are usually PACKED. If you want to get there and chill, you have to come at least 20 minutes early, because usually a line forms before the previous class is even finished. Especially with the more popular evening classes since everyone is out of work I presume.
Hope you enjoy it as much as I have! -
Review from Graham S.
West Hollywood, CA
3/26/2012
Wow. Classes here can get really busy. I was going to give 3 stars, but given you get to chose what you pay, how can I give less than four. The truth I think that there's just not enough personal attention here.
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Review from k s.
Los Angeles, CA
9/17/2011
Dan is honestly one of the best technique yoga teachers ive found in 3 states. I LOVE taking Dan's class but he can be difficult so if you are not in shape start with one of the girls or Travis. Also, Rudy's level 3-4 class is INSANE you will leave SO happy and tired. But he drops the ball a little in his lower level class compared to Dan.
In general all the teachers are good which is hard to find. -
Review from Cosmic C.
Hollywood, CA
5/6/2011
Mon-Wed-Fri 10:45 , 4:30 & 6pm w/ Bryan Kest.
The most transformative practice of my life.
The most positive environment, FOR ME .
If you've ever felt like somethings been missing since birth... COME.
It's this... -
Review from Erin B.
Updated - 1/4/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Finally went to one of Bryan's classes again last night for the first time in a while. I kept missing his classes and in doing so Rudy has become my #2 fav yogi at Bryan's Studio. But back to Bryan...It's the New Year and even with all the distractions of a fully packed to capacity class with newbees (that are completely welcomed, just distracting at first), Bryan was able to achieve the perfect flow of class and always has the most perfect words to say in class. He makes me feel better about myself with his knowledge in my head.
Street Parking Update: Meters in LA unless otherwise posted do not need to be feed after 6pm. I first started attending classes here two years ago and up until now the posted time was 7pm, last night I noticed that the posted time has been changed to 9pm. Lame! But the city's broke, so...a city's gotta do what a city's gotta do, I guess ;)Listed in: Some of LA's random good…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/7/2010
My favorite yoga studio ever!
When I moved to SD for a while I tried a few different studios out and… Read more »
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Review from Natalie A.
Santa Monica, CA
11/9/2011
So, so, so grateful for PY. I love the packed classes, the group energy, the people who go to the classes (tend to be down to earth) and the instructors. I don't know if it's because it's donation based but I feel like this studio has a great vibe and attracts wonderful energy. There are so many times I leave a class feeling on a high. Vytas' classes are guaranteed to make you sweat and get a real work out. He's my favorite, but all of the other instructors are great too -- they all have different styles and I feel like everyone who comes to PY finds the teacher that fits with what they need work out wise.
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Review from Jessica I.
Santa Monica, CA
12/24/2010
Last year I did and Ironman, but there are times when this brand of yoga equals the intensity, both emotionally and physically. I love bringing new people here, especially guys, who posture all about how "it's just yoga, how bad can it be?" I feel a sadistic sense of satisfaction when they are broken and have dissolved into a giant lake of sweat. It's that mean streak I'm trying to yoga-cize out of me :)
There are a ton of classes and teachers to choose from. My favorite is Rudy because I'm not really into that hippie granola woo woo brand of yoga. He gives an amazing workout, but is also hilarious and there are times I have fallen out of a pose just from laughing (I.e "yoga push-ups: press lips or collagen to the floor"). I also really love Travis when I want something a little more Zen and he plays this instrument that only has like one note and he chants sometimes. I know, I said I'm not into woo-woo hippie granola, but it works coming from him. All the other instructors are really wonderful in their own ways that I've taken. I've never had a bad class..
At times the classes are really packed, but I have never felt like my space wasn't respected.
Being a social worker, I'm really grateful for the concept of donation -only. The suggested donation is $14.
My only recommendation is that you get there early. A) it's really annoying to have to be moving mats around 15 minutes into class and B) parking can be a pain in the structures. If you get to the SM parking structures before 6pm, it's 2 hours free, so you really won't have to pay. It's an arguably good reason for doing classes prior to 6pm.
And one more thing -- I've been to other yoga classes that focus more on the technique and basics and I recommend that as an adjunct to make sure you are doing the poses right. This is more of a workout than a chance to fine-tune your yoga skills or breathing technique. -
Review from Manisha R.
Santa Monica, CA
4/9/2011 14 Check-ins Here
I love Adji's class! It's a solid level 2 (often 2/3 depending on the strength of the attendees), and it's definitely a workout. Bring a towel and water because you'll need it! It is early on Saturday morning, and yeah, I often struggle to leave the comfort of my bed... But the high that I get after his class is totally worth setting my alarm. The class is an awesome way to start off your weekend refreshed and energized...and best of all you've gotten your workout in and have the rest of the day to play!
What I love about Adji's style is that he brings levity and fun into the class. He's funny, not hippie/dippie like a lot of the other SMPY instructors, very helpful and just a cool doood. He's the only yoga instructor in LA I'd skip my first-thing-in-the-morning-drink-or-die coffee for, and that's a BIG deal.
The five stars are really for his class. In terms of the studio, well, um, let's just say it has a lot of charm. If you're looking for luxury, this is NOT your place. It's a little grungy. But who cares? You're on your island of a mat (btw, it's BYOM) and sweating like hell. So it works. :) -
Review from Sallie and Alex L. A.
Los Angeles, CA
4/30/2011
Coming from someone who refuses to a) join a gym and b) workout indoors, the fact that BKPY is one of the two exceptions I make (Kinetic Cycling is the other) - shows that BKPY's 5-star rating is worth every penny and star.
Read more on why I love BKPY and why I won't go anywhere else here: http://offthecouchla.b... -
Review from simple g.
Los Angeles, CA
5/2/2011
This is the bEsT yoga studio. Bryan's aim is to have you walking out of the class high, and most classes, I do! Over the past year, Bryan has taught me to grow kinder to myself. His basic class is great for even beginners.
I've also been to Dan and Vytas' classes. All very different styles, but similar content. I used to hate Vytas' class. I thought it was too hard. His classes are still tough, but my mind is more malleable I think. I now really like Vytas's classes. -
Review from Anna K.
3/14/2011
Synchronized detoxification of the mind and body.
sweat beading ever so fluidly off the brow.
beautiful bodies twisting and stretching.
heat radiating to warm the muscles.
just flow with the music.
breathe and move.
ahhhhhhhhh.Listed in: LA living
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Review from David A.
Los Angeles, CA
6/15/2011
I really enjoy these classes, and like the fact that they don't run their business like the yoga cartel. The payment is not required up front, and while they ask for $10.00, they won't turn you away if you are a buck or two short. Try that with Mc Bikram and see if that gets you any Hindu compassion.
The workouts are very intense, and even if you are in a beginning class, please expect to sweat like a sow. I really have to say that Vishnu must be giving many thumbs up to this place. -
Review from Kamie P.
Los Angeles, CA
1/11/2011
3.5 stars, but I love that the class is donation based ($14 suggested) and offers classes late at night, so I'll give it the extra bump.
I came here the Wednesday after new years so it was definitely one of those super packed, ass-to-face classes. I appreciated that the instructor took the time to fit everyone into the class and didn't turn anyone away, but it would be nice if people would come reasonably on time so that the class didn't have to start almost half an hour late.
The studio was one large room, with cubbies for your belongings, bathrooms, and no mirrors. Yoga studios I normally frequent always have mirrors and I like to use it to correct my poses, but it was kind of nice to practice without worrying about correcting myself so much. This is definitely an all levels class, and most people seemed to be fairly new to yoga. I think there could have been better instructions and corrections since a lot of folks seemed unsure of themselves. I love practicing yoga to music, so I was glad he put some on after we got warmed up, it was some kind of yogi-trance, but i dug it haha.
Maybe I'm just used to more lively, energetic yoga classes at my home studio, because at times I felt it was kind of lacking spirit and freshness and I got kind of restless. I didn't get that renewed and revived feeling here that I normally get after yoga, but overall it was a good workout and I'd give it another chance if I'm in the area. -
Review from Injae K.
Venice, CA
When it comes to yoga, this place is as good as it gets!
Coming from a dance background, I have been taking yoga off and on for about 10 years....well, more off than on.
Nevertheless, whenever I need to untie the knot that has been twisting in my body and mind from the bullshit of daily life, I come here to breathe, stretch, quite my mind, balance, sweat, and to look at hotties while I'm in down dog..... "Down dog, down dog!"
If you've never taken yoga or are trying to be active for the first time, I suggest taking a beginner's class so that you get the idea and the attention, because if you don't know your body well, you might over exert yourself and push too hard, and injure yourself.
But if you're a yogi, or fitness guru, or looking for a challenging dual between mind and body, this is the place to come. I usually take a Vytas class. We call him Vytas Christ, because he looks like a hot Jesus Christ if he had a hair cut, so hot, and his voice is so soothing. Or Bryan, another hottie, and he'll crack some jokes in between.
So unroll your mat, take your shirt off, and let's sweat! -
Review from Melissa W.
Marina del Rey, CA
1/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
I LOVE this place!!
Marc's beginner class on Thursday is incredibly relaxing. He is one of my favorite instructors. My other favorite is Rudy - - he is, like others have said, incredibly difficult. You'll be walking funny the day after a class with Rudy.
Located up the stairs by Radio Shack, this location is a little older, but still has some great charm. The classes at this location don't seem to be as busy as the location on 2nd street either, which is a big plus.
This is donation yoga. Give what you can and keep these fabulous instructors happy! -
Review from Lozomoves W.
Marina del Rey, CA
12/25/2010 3 Check-ins Here
I'm a longtime dancer, first year yoga-goer, and have to testify that this yoga drops some mean ass pearls of wisdom into my core. If you're looking for the elitist bootcamp yoga instructor that speaks poses and directives AT you like a peon don't go here, go to the bikram one on olympic. If you're looking for a place that helps you craft an inner self and outer awareness, check em out. I'm still learning the instructors differences but I recommend Vytas to guys looking for a physical challenge.
Pros: Great energy, nice and friendly classmates, amazing teachers
Cons: nada -
Review from Eve L.
Cambridge, MA
1/14/2011
i just have to send some love to Bryan, jerome and the whole Santa Monica East studio. What an amazing place, inspiring teachers, LA - you don't know how good you have it. I am from boston, and donation based yoga made it possible to do yoga nearly every single day i was here. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I only wish there was someplace this good in Boston.
Jerome is a warm hearted, demanding teacher who pushes you past your limitations. Bryan is a free-styling, rhyming master who seduces you past your limitations.
THANK YOU GUYS!!!! -
Review from Sungmin H.
Santa Monica, CA
8/24/2010 1 Check-in Here
This is one of those places makes L.A. the place to be.
There are two studios. one on the 5th.. by the library and Goodwill, the other one is by 2nd Street. there is no Big Sign which points to the studio, but this is one of those, "not for tourist" Locals only spots.. there are often lines out the door for these classes.
Why is this Yoga Studio better then the others.
1. It's thought by Bryan Kest. Youtube him. He is one of the O.G. of yoga. he coin the term Power Yoga, because astanga is hard as hell.
2 Instructors are top notch. - Yoga was always big in West coast. the quality of Westernized yoga classes are top notch in L.A. and bryan kest takes the best among them to teach at his class. ( instructors waited 1 year or two to teach at this place)
3. Various Style. chanting, meditation. hard core inversion.. Mommy and Me.. live music.. you can pick and choose what ever fit your needs.
4. times.. dude.. 6am Sunday class to 10:45 evening class. there are 10 + classes every day.
5. Donation based. -- $10 donation is suggested. but It's bryan's philanthropy that this place is run though donation based.
TIPS TIPS TIPS.
1. Arive early. - this place is popular.
2. parking at the street.. or the parking structure.
3. most of classes will be very crowded especially the evening classes afterwork, if you want smaller classes feel. head to the 2nd street studio. It's less crazy then 5th studio. ( if you are going to stuck in traffic for 1 hour... why don't you go to yoga class then cruise down home at 8 pm?
4. 5th studio gets mofo hot.. it's not heated yoga.. but if you are out of the shape...be prepared..
5. if you want individual attention, try ... like Sunday morning, Saturday morning class. - one time, I when there for 6am class and there was 3 people.. I had one of the most well guided yoga session.
6. DO no be cheap. if you can't afford yoga.. you should still come. but if you are blowing $100 every weekend at Hollywood and Vine, bring couple dollar bills to the class.
7. Water bottle, ( reverse osmosis water fountain ) hand towel.
Hope to see you there. -
Review from Christian N.
Los Angeles, CA
5/26/2011
Brian Kest is an incredible teacher. His unrelenting focus, casual manner and years of experience are priceless. Speaking of priceless - this is a donation bases system, no memberships, no monthly fees.
The other instructors are fantastic as well and I suggest you try a couple of different classes. Every teacher has a different style. So, try them all out and see which one you like best. But all teachers are really gifted at what they do. -
Review from Dianna H.
Los Angeles, CA
9/21/2010
I've only recently started doing yoga. This is the first and only studio I've ever tried, and it just may be the last!
If you're ready to have an incredible workout, sweat buckets, be intimidated (or motivated) by the plethora of fit bodies, and pay $5 for parking in the structure across the street, then you've come to the right place. But don't worry--it's absolutely doable for all levels, and so, so worth it!
Bring a towel (or two), and come early to secure a spot.
