Devotees of Bikram Yoga, who have been sweating it out in a crowded shed in Portobello since Anne Leonard opened Dublin's first studio in 2003, have at last got a new premises - in Harold's Cross.
This is the class known as "hot yoga", done in 35 degree heat. Mad, you think, until you try it and quickly become nimble, energised and even addicted - once you get over the initial shock. Regular attendance will make you feel incredibly well and rather svelte in a matter of weeks. On the downside, it requires a huge amount of time - each class of 26 postures is 90 minutes long. To begin with, that's 90 minutes of arguing with yourself (I think I can, I think I can . . .) plus the time it takes to get there and shower afterwards. But the physical benefits can be remarkable as you gradually stop wobbling and grow in strength and flexibility. Then you're unbearable, and strike yoga poses in airport queues and suchlike.
Almost as many men as women attend these classes, and all ages are welcome. Introductory offers are designed to encourage you to try it a good few times, and just now regulars and newcomers can go as often as they like over 30 days for €49 (offer lasts until September 30th). There are 20 classes a week (less crowded midweek, of course), and all you need is a mat, two towels and a bottle of water. The new studio is in Greenmount Industrial Estate, near Harold's Cross Bridge (see www.bikramyoga.ie for timetable and details). New Bikram studios are opening in Cork and Dublin soon, and Belfast has a rather lavish-looking one in Queen Street.