Several Toronto yoga studios have partnered with a special events company to set up hot yoga pods lakeside.
Spaced apart on the grounds of Hotel X next to Lake Ontario, 50 translucent bubbles measure 12 feet wide by 7 feet tall and include a heating system to imitate the sweltering conditions of a Bikram yoga studio. Each pod can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit with up to six classes offered daily -- and clients have flocked to get their downward dog on while social distancing.
"It been tremendous, everyone is enjoying the experience," Steve Georgiev, Lmnts Outdoor Studio founder and organizer of the project, said. "A lot of people haven't had face-to-face interaction with others in a while. We're glad to bring people together in a responsible and safe way and provide some sort of mental and physical relief in this difficult time."
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Georgiev explained the heated pods-- normally used for outdoor dining in the cooler months-- are scrubbed down by certified cleaners after every class and client's temperatures are taken upon arrival. Lmnts Outdoor Studio is hosting the pop-up event with six yoga studios aimed at bolstering health and wellness in an age of careful cleanliness. Each class runs around $30 and is open to the public.
"Now more than ever, it's important that we work together to provide consumers with safe and creative ways that they can stay healthy and active while physical distancing measures are in place," Georgiev said.
Instructor Deana Di Carlo, who's been teaching yoga for more than a decade, explained while the setup isn't quite like class back at the studio, it beats Instagram Lives and Zoom calls with clients.
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"It all comes down to accountability," Di Carlo said. "There's an aspect of being in the room with people that you can't beat. These workouts over video calls or on social media, there's no one really making sure you stick with it. You can get up, get a glass of water, or tap out completely if you get sick of the work. Everyone holds each other accountable when you're together."
The outdoor yoga classes are set to continue seven days a week until July 31.