Name: Photon (Hot Yoga Extra Heat)
Brand: ALIVE Studios
Price: 24.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.63 (293 reviews)

Question 1

Does ALIVE Studios offer a free trial class?

Accepted Answer

ALIVE Studios offers a Trial Month — unlimited classes for one full month at an introductory price. Rather than a single free class, the Trial Month lets you fully experience our immersive hot yoga, barre, Pilates, and meditation classes so you can find your favorites and build a routine.

Your Trial Month includes access to every class on our schedule — from gentle Electron to our signature hot yoga classes — across all ALIVE Studios locations. We provide a sanitized mat and fresh towel, so just bring a water bottle and wear moisture-wicking clothes. Visit our Membership page to check current Trial Month pricing for your preferred studio, then book your first class and arrive 15 minutes early.

Question 2

What makes ALIVE's heated environment different? What are your patented climate controls?

Accepted Answer

ALIVE studios use a patented dew point control system (US Patent 12,209,760, January 2025) invented by Brandon Hartsell and assigned to Alive Wellness and Fitness Group. This system was designed specifically for heated fitness environments like hot yoga.

The Problem with Traditional Systems:
Conventional climate systems use PID controllers that manage temperature and humidity independently. In a hot yoga environment, this creates a problem: as the room heats up (from radiant heat and body heat from practitioners), the dew point rises even if relative humidity stays constant. A high dew point creates that oppressive, sticky feeling where sweat pools on your skin instead of evaporating. When sweat can't evaporate, your body can't cool itself through perspiration—making the heat feel unbearable rather than therapeutic.

ALIVE's Solution - Direct Dew Point Control:
Our system controls the dew point directly by maintaining it within an 'operating dew point band' defined by minimum and maximum levels. The system continuously calculates actual dew point from real-time temperature and humidity sensor data.

How Dew Point Works (Example):
A dew point of 82.3°F can be achieved at multiple temperature/humidity combinations:
- 95.6°F with 65.8% humidity
- 98.6°F with 60% humidity
- 101.6°F with 54.8% humidity

This is why controlling dew point directly—rather than temperature and humidity separately—creates a more consistent, comfortable experience regardless of how many people are in class or how the temperature fluctuates.

Intelligent Multi-Stage Humidity Delivery:
The system uses a three-stage humidity delivery process:
- Stage 1: Base humidity rate when dew point drops into the operating band
- Stage 2: Increased rate when conditions continue declining
- Stage 3: Maximum rate when dew point falls below the minimum level

This graduated approach prevents overcorrection and maintains stability.

Smart 'Declining Condition' Detection:
The system doesn't just react to low readings—it detects trends. It samples conditions at two different frequencies (for example, every 5 seconds and every 30 seconds) and compares them to determine if dew point and humidity are actually declining. Humidity is only added when conditions are trending downward, not simply when they're below a threshold. This prevents unnecessary humidity addition and maintains optimal balance.

System Safety Checks:
Before initiating humidification, the system verifies:
- Supply duct temperature is sufficient
- Supply duct humidity is adequate
- Compressed air pressure is within range
- Water line pressure is sufficient
- Exhaust system is inactive (won't add humidity if exhaust would remove it)
- Airflow is active in the supply duct

Energy Efficiency:
Unlike systems that require air conditioning and dehumidification to manage conditions, our system maintains the optimal dew point band primarily through intelligent humidity addition, working with natural temperature fluctuation rather than fighting it.

What Members Experience:
- Heat that feels challenging but breathable—never oppressive
- Sweat evaporates properly, allowing natural body cooling
- Consistent environment throughout class regardless of attendance
- The therapeutic benefits of heat without the suffocating feeling
- A noticeably different experience compared to other heated studios

Technical Specifications:
- Temperature range: Designed for 80-100°F+ environments
- Real-time dew point calculation from temperature and humidity sensors
- Programmable setpoints (can be set locally or from remote location)
- Multi-studio central monitoring capability

Patent Details:
- US Patent Number: 12,209,760 B2
- Title: Method and Apparatus for Controlling Dew Point in an Interior Space
- Inventor: Brandon Hartsell, Dallas, TX
- Assignee: Alive Wellness and Fitness Group, LLC, Addison, TX
- Filed: August 26, 2022
- Granted: January 28, 2025
- Claims: 19 claims covering the method and control system

Question 3

How do I prepare for my first class?

Accepted Answer

Before You Arrive:

Timing: Please arrive 15 minutes before your first class. After your first visit, 5 minutes early is enough to pick a spot and set up.

Hydration: Stay hydrated throughout the day (don't chug water right before class). For morning classes, hydrate before bed and on your way in.

Nutrition: Eat something light about an hour before class for energy.

What We Provide: Sanitized mat and fresh towel - just bring a water bottle!

What to Wear: Moisture-wicking, lightweight clothes that allow movement. Avoid cotton (it absorbs sweat and gets heavy). Thinner, silkier fabrics dry quickly.

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When You Arrive:

1. Check in at the front desk (staff will greet you and hand you a towel)
2. Store your phone, keys, and wallet in a locker
3. Leave shoes in the locker room or by the studio door
4. Grab a mat and place it on one of the floor markers
5. Lay your towel on top and relax until class begins

Late Arrival: Entry is allowed during the 3-minute intro, but not once class content begins.

You can also check in ahead of time on our schedule page or mobile app.

Question 4

Which classes are good for beginners?

Accepted Answer

ALIVE is absolutely suitable for beginners! All of our classes can be scaled up or down to accommodate different fitness levels.

Recommended for first-timers:
- Atom - Great introduction to the ALIVE experience
- Electron - Accessible for all levels
- Glow - Popular with newcomers

These classes are particularly beginner-friendly, but don't feel limited - any class can work for you. Our coached classes are especially helpful when starting out, as instructors can provide personalized guidance.

As with any exercise program, we recommend checking with your doctor before starting. View class descriptions and schedules on our schedule page.

Question 5

How long are the classes?

Accepted Answer

Standard classes: Most classes are 1 hour. Some are 45 minutes (noted in the class title).

FLUX classes: These consist of 3 segments of 15 minutes each. You're welcome to enter and exit between segments - perfect for a quick workout or if you're short on time.

View our full schedule and class descriptions on the schedule page.

Question 6

Do I need to register for class in advance?

Accepted Answer

We recommend registering ahead of time through our schedule page, but it's not required.

If a class is full: You'll need to select a different time. We have a waitlist for the rare occasion a class fills up.

Walk-ins welcome: If there's space available, you can join without pre-registration.

You can also check in ahead of time using our mobile app.

Question 7

What types of classes does ALIVE Studios offer?

Accepted Answer

ALIVE Studios offers hot yoga, flow yoga, barre, Pilates, HIIT, and meditation — all in heated, immersive environments with floor-to-ceiling video, curated sound, and patented temperature controls. We have over a dozen unique class formats to match every fitness level and goal.

By category:
- Hot Yoga: Atom, Photon, Big Bang — deep stretching and detox in 98–105°F heat
- Flow Yoga: Electron, Glow, Wave, Aura — fluid movement in moderate warmth (85–92°F)
- Barre, Fitness & Pilates: Gravity, Nucleus, Spark, Universe — strength and toning
- Meditation: Integrated into classes and available as dedicated sessions

Classes run every 30 minutes throughout the day. View all class descriptions and temperatures at alivestudios.fit/classes.

Question 8

Is there an age limit for classes?

Accepted Answer

Participants must be 16 years of age or older unless supervised by a parent or legal guardian at all times.

Question 9

Is hot yoga good for weight loss?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hot yoga is highly effective for weight loss. The heated environment (95–105°F) elevates your heart rate, increasing calorie burn to 330–460 calories per session. Many ALIVE Studios members report losing 20–35 pounds within their first few months of regular practice, with 3–5 sessions per week producing the best results.

Beyond calorie burn, the heat naturally reduces food cravings and promotes healthier eating habits. Members consistently report shifting to lighter, more nutritious diets without conscious effort. Combined with improved muscle tone, metabolism, and the detoxifying effects of deep sweating, hot yoga provides a comprehensive, sustainable approach to weight management that goes far beyond a typical workout. Explore our class offerings to find the best fit for your weight-loss goals.

Question 10

Do you offer private classes?

Accepted Answer

No, we currently do not offer private classes. Our classes are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all fitness levels.

However, our coached classes provide excellent personalized attention:
- Coaches focus 100% on individual student assistance
- Video/audio handles demonstration, freeing coaches for hands-on help
- Perfect for those wanting more guidance

View our schedule page to find coached classes - look for '[Name] Coaching' (e.g., 'Sarah Coaching').

Question 11

Can hot yoga help with back pain?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hot yoga can significantly reduce back pain. The heated environment warms muscles and connective tissue, allowing deeper stretches with less risk of strain. This increased flexibility, combined with core strengthening, addresses the root causes of most back pain rather than just masking symptoms.

Research supports yoga as an effective treatment for chronic low back pain, reducing pain and improving flexibility, strength, and endurance. At ALIVE Studios, members like Bill Deloney came in 'bent over' from back pain and left his first class 'with no pain and walking straight up.' The heat improves circulation, delivering nutrients to damaged tissues and reducing inflammation. Always consult your physician before starting if you have a serious spinal condition. Browse our class schedule to find a beginner-friendly session near you.

Question 12

Do you have classes suitable for seniors?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! ALIVE is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. All of our classes can be scaled up or down to accommodate your needs.

Recommended starting classes:
- Atom - Great introduction to the ALIVE experience
- Electron - Accessible for all levels
- Glow - Popular with all ages

Our coached classes are especially helpful as instructors can provide personalized modifications. As with any exercise program, we recommend checking with your doctor before starting.

View class descriptions and schedules on our schedule page.

Question 13

Is hot yoga safe for beginners?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hot yoga is safe for beginners when approached sensibly. Start by hydrating well throughout the day, wear lightweight moisture-wicking clothes, and listen to your body during class. It's completely normal to rest on your mat if you need a break — every experienced practitioner started exactly where you are.

At ALIVE Studios, all classes can be scaled to your fitness level. Our coached classes are especially beginner-friendly because instructors provide real-time modifications. We recommend starting with 2–3 classes per week to let your body acclimate to the heat. The Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic both note that hot yoga is generally safe for healthy individuals who stay hydrated and don't push beyond their limits. Ready to try? Check our Trial Month to get started.

Question 14

What equipment is used in classes?

Accepted Answer

Equipment we provide:
- Sanitized yoga mats
- Fresh towels
- Hand weights (for classes that use them)
- Stretch/resistance bands (for classes that use them)

What to bring:
- Water bottle (we have bottle fill stations)
- Comfortable, moisture-wicking workout clothes

That's it! Just show up ready to move - we've got everything else covered.

Question 15

What is the difference between hot yoga and regular yoga?

Accepted Answer

Hot yoga is practiced in a room heated to 85–105°F with controlled humidity, while regular yoga is done at room temperature. The heat allows deeper stretching, increased calorie burn, and more effective detoxification through sweating. Both forms improve flexibility, strength, and mental well-being.

At ALIVE Studios, we combine heat with an immersive sensory experience — floor-to-ceiling video, curated soundscapes, and patented environmental controls that precisely manage temperature and humidity for each class type. The heat warms your muscles faster, allowing you to move deeper into poses safely. Research shows both heated and unheated yoga improve cardiovascular health, but many practitioners prefer the added challenge and deeper stretch that heat provides. See our full range of heated class formats to compare temperatures and styles.

Question 16

How often should I attend classes?

Accepted Answer

Starting out: Participate as often as you can in your first 30 days. Building new habits is both a physical and mental journey that requires consistency.

Recommendations:
- Don't overdo it - listen to your body
- Each week, try to add an extra class
- Try a variety of class types for best results
- If you feel dizzy or unwell, stop and rest

Why variety matters: Asking your body to adapt to different activities has rewarding impacts on your body composition that you'll miss if you specialize in just one style.

Health note: Always listen to your body. If you have any health conditions, please check with your doctor before starting or continuing an exercise program.

View our full schedule at schedule page.

Question 17

What is the difference between barre and pilates?

Accepted Answer

Barre focuses on small, isolated muscle movements inspired by ballet — pulsing squats, pliés, and isometric holds that sculpt and tone. Pilates emphasizes controlled, precise movements targeting core strength, posture, and the mind-muscle connection. Both build strength without bulk.

At ALIVE Studios, you can experience both in our heated environment. Our barre-inspired classes like Gravity combine ballet-influenced movements with our signature heat for deeper muscle engagement. Pilates-focused classes emphasize core control and spinal alignment. Many members do both — barre for toning and cardio, Pilates for core strength and injury prevention. The best choice depends on your goals: barre for a faster-paced, calorie-burning workout; Pilates for focused strength and rehabilitation. Explore our class descriptions to compare barre and Pilates offerings.

Question 18

How many calories does a class burn?

Accepted Answer

Hot yoga is a great calorie burner! Even though you're not running or jumping, being in a heated room elevates your heart rate.

Research shows:
- Women burn an average of 333 calories in a 90-minute hot yoga session
- Men burn about 460 calories per session
(Source: Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise journal)

The increased heart rate from movement in our heated environment helps burn calories and promotes weight management. Combined with the detoxifying benefits of sweating, our classes offer an efficient full-body workout.

Question 19

Do I need to be flexible to do yoga?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need to be flexible to start yoga. Flexibility is a result of yoga practice, not a prerequisite. Every pose can be modified to match your current ability, and the heated environment at ALIVE Studios helps your muscles warm up faster, making stretches more accessible from day one.

Many of our most dedicated members started with very limited flexibility. The key is consistency — practicing 2–3 times per week, you'll notice measurable improvements in flexibility within just a few weeks. Our instructors never judge where you start; they guide you to progress safely at your own pace. Find a class that fits your level on our schedule.

Question 20

Are all classes heated? What are the temperature levels?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all ALIVE classes are warm—we don't have traditional room-temperature classes. Our studios use patented environmental controls to create the ideal heated environment for each class type.

Temperature levels:
- ~85°F / ~50% humidity — Moderate warmth (Gravity, Particle, Spark, Universe, FLUX, workshops)
- ~92°F / ~50% humidity — Warm (Electron, Glow, Wave, Nucleus, Aura)
- ~98.6°F / ~60% humidity — Hot (Atom, Big Bang, some FLUX classes)
- ~100°F / ~65% humidity — Extra hot (Photon)

Looking for lower heat? Try classes at ~85° like Gravity (Pilates), Universe (HIIT), or Electron (gentler hot yoga).

See all class temperatures: Visit our Classes page where each class shows its exact temperature and humidity right under the name.

Question 21

Why is the room heated for hot yoga?

Accepted Answer

The room is heated to warm your muscles and connective tissue, allowing safer and deeper stretches while reducing injury risk. Heat elevates your heart rate for a cardiovascular workout, increases blood flow to aid recovery, and promotes profuse sweating that helps flush toxins from your body.

At ALIVE Studios, we use patented environmental controls to precisely manage both temperature (85–105°F) and humidity (50–65%) for each class type. This isn't random heat — it's engineered for specific physiological benefits. The warmth also triggers a relaxation response, reducing stress hormones and creating the meditative state that makes hot yoga uniquely effective for both physical and mental well-being. Each of our class formats has its own specific temperature and humidity settings.

Question 22

How far in advance can I book classes?

Accepted Answer

You can register for classes approximately 6 days in advance through our schedule page or mobile app.

If you're trying to sign up for a class further out and it won't let you, that's because the schedule hasn't been published yet. Check back closer to the date!

Question 23

Can hot yoga help with stress and anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Yes, hot yoga is highly effective for managing stress and anxiety. The combination of controlled breathing, physical movement, and heat activates your parasympathetic nervous system, reducing cortisol levels and triggering a deep relaxation response. Many practitioners report leaving class feeling calmer than when they arrived, regardless of their stress levels.

At ALIVE Studios, members consistently describe the studio as their 'port in the storm.' As member Cindy McMillin shares: 'No matter how much stress I am under, I always leave my class feeling better than when I went in.' The immersive environment — video, sound, and controlled heat — creates a focused space where daily stresses naturally fall away. Regular practice (3+ times per week) compounds these benefits, building lasting resilience to stress. View our class offerings to find the right pace for your practice.

Question 24

Can I take multiple classes in one day?

Accepted Answer

It's wonderful to see you wanting to practice more! Here's how multiple classes work:

Online booking: You can only register for one class per day through the app or website.

Second class: Head to the studio and our front desk staff can enter you into a second class.

This system helps ensure availability for all members while still allowing dedicated practitioners to double up when they want!

View available classes at schedule page.

Question 25

Is hot yoga good for injury recovery?

Accepted Answer

Hot yoga can be an excellent complement to injury recovery when done with medical clearance. The heated environment increases blood circulation to injured areas, delivering nutrients that accelerate healing. Gentle stretching in warmth helps restore range of motion while strengthening supporting muscles to prevent re-injury.

ALIVE Studios member Mark McDonnell credits hot yoga with 'fixing my bad shoulder, avoiding carpal tunnel surgery, and healing my painful right knee.' Joel Hallford recovered from an ankle injury through practice, noting that yoga 'improved my core strength, which allowed me to work through my injury.' Always consult your physician first, and let your instructor know about any injuries so they can offer modifications. Explore our gentler class formats like Electron and Glow for a recovery-friendly starting point.

Question 26

Can I take classes while pregnant?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that you talk it over with your doctor first. They will know best what will work for you based on your specific situation and stage of pregnancy.

After consulting your doctor: If you have specific questions about our classes and how they might work for you, contact Chelsea Wade at service@t.alivestudios.fit or (469) 785-1071.

Our coached classes can be especially helpful as instructors can provide modifications tailored to your needs.

Question 27

How early should I arrive before a yoga class?

Accepted Answer

Arrive 15 minutes early for your first class, and 5 minutes early for subsequent visits. This gives you time to check in, store belongings in a locker, set up your mat, and settle into the warm studio before class begins.

For your first visit, the extra time allows staff to greet you, provide a tour, hand you a fresh towel, and answer any questions. Late arrival is permitted during the 3-minute intro sequence, but entry is not allowed once class content begins — this protects the experience for all participants. You can also check in ahead of time through the schedule page or the ALIVE app.

Question 28

What should I wear to hot yoga?

Accepted Answer

Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes that allow full range of movement. Avoid cotton — it absorbs sweat and becomes heavy. Polyester/spandex blends are ideal because they dry quickly and stay comfortable in the heated environment.

Good choices: Fitted tank tops, sports bras, compression shorts, yoga leggings, or athletic shorts. Many practitioners wear minimal clothing for comfort in the heat.

Avoid: Baggy cotton t-shirts, loose shorts without liners, heavy fabrics, and anything that restricts movement.

ALIVE Studios provides a sanitized mat and fresh towel — just bring a water bottle and your workout clothes. You can store everything else in a locker. Ready to book? View the class schedule and find a session at a location near you.

Question 29

How do I cancel a class reservation?

Accepted Answer

On the website:
1. Go to the schedule page
2. Click the "My Classes" tab (requires sign-in)
3. Find your booked class and tap Cancel

In the ALIVE app:
1. Tap your profile icon (top right)
2. Select "Booked Classes"
3. Find the class and tap Cancel

If the class has already started: You'll need to ask the front desk to remove you from the class.

Photon (Hot Yoga Extra Heat)

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