Frequently Asked

Every question answered.

From your first class to your seventh studio. Everything you need to know about the practice, the membership, the studios, and how to find us.


01 · The Practice

Classes, prep, and protocol.

Everything you need to know before you step on the mat.

What types of classes does Ritual offer?
Ritual Hot Yoga Our signature 50 minute flow. Fast paced, sweaty sequences followed by a cool eucalyptus towel and mini massage. The benefits of a seated meditation, a high intensity workout, and a combination of strength building and deep muscle releasing postures in every class.
Ritual Yin 50 minutes of slow, stretchy postures followed by a cool eucalyptus towel and mini massage. Extended holds to stretch into the connective tissue and deep muscle release. Meditative and restorative.
Ritual Hot Yoga Glutes A 50 minute signature class with extra focus on the glutes. Same heat, same flow, more burn through the lower body. Strength building with deep muscle release.
Ritual Hot Abs The freshest, spiciest offering at Ritual. 20 minutes of roasting your core top to bottom, front to back, side to side. Draws on techniques from yoga, pilates, and strength training to build the center of your balanced practice.
Themed Classes Curated playlists tied to one of the class types listed on the schedule. Look for them throughout the month, every studio.
How long are classes?

Ritual offers a variety of classes built for the working professional's schedule.

  • Ritual Hot Yoga · 50 minutes
  • Ritual Yin · 50 minutes
  • Ritual Hot Yoga Glutes · 50 minutes
  • Ritual Hot Abs · 20 minutes
What should I bring to class?

Just yourself. Ritual studios are all inclusive and provide premium mats, mat towels, face towels, essential oils, blocks, straps, MatSnaps, water refill stations, tea, coffee, shower towels, luxury bath products, lockers, hair ties, bags for transporting sweaty post yoga clothes, and a fully stocked beauty bar. Every amenity at no additional cost.

Each studio has three dedicated showers, changing facilities, and a lounge area for before or after class. Top of the line retail with Beyond Yoga, Alo, Lululemon, and branded Ritual gear is available for purchase.

Suitable clothes for movement are recommended: breathable shorts, leggings, sports bras. T-shirts and tanks optional.

How should I prepare my body for class?

Come well hydrated. The daily recommendation for fluids is between 64 and 80 ounces for the average human. On days you know you are practicing, drink more than usual and supplement with electrolytes before or during class.

Make sure your body is sufficiently fueled and rested. Refrain from eating a heavy meal within two hours of practice.

Before starting any fitness routine, please consult your doctor to make sure certain types of exercises are right for you.

How early should I arrive before class?

Arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes before class to allow time for check in, locker setup, water, and getting situated on your mat.

Studio doors open 15 minutes before class and close 2 minutes before the start of class to ensure classes begin on time.

What if I'm running late or am unable to attend class?

If you're running late, call the studio and we will do our best to hold your spot. If you do not arrive at least 2 minutes before class begins, the doors could be locked as teachers start class on time. Life can get hectic, so the Ritual Crew will do everything possible to get you in class if they are aware beforehand.

A $25 no show fee is automatically assessed each time a class is missed or if a student fails to cancel within 12 hours of the listed start time. If a student cancels at least 12 hours before class, no fee will be charged.

Cancelling a class is easy. Via the website, the mobile app, or phone. Just make sure to do it at least 12 hours before class to avoid the fee.

How does the waitlist work if a class is full?

If a class is full, you can still sign up and be added to the waitlist. If a booked student cancels and you are pulled from the waitlist, you will be notified via email.

If the class remains full, one minute after the start time, we check the roster to see if everyone signed up has checked in. At that point, the open mat goes to waitlisters in the studio first, and then to any other students who would like to join that class.


02 · Getting Started

First time? Start here.

How to book, what to buy, and what to expect on day one.

Is Ritual right for beginners?

Ritual is an all levels practice designed for beginners and veterans alike. The practice is accessible to a person who has never done a single yoga pose before, while still offering 50 minutes of vigorous activity for all students.

Poses with advanced variations are offered with 4 levels. Level 1 is the expression of the pose suitable for most bodies, with opportunities to increase strength and flexibility from that starting place. If you are nervous about trying yoga for the first time, come at least 15 minutes early so that a concierge or teacher can answer any questions you might have.

How do I book a class?

We recommend signing up for class before coming into the studio to make sure you have a mat reserved. Walk ins are welcome, but no guarantees of a spot since classes fill quickly, especially the day of.

After you create an account, visit your preferred studio schedule to view class times. Choose a class, pick your package, and you're booked. The Ritual Hot Yoga mobile app on iOS makes booking even easier.

Studio schedules:

What are the best class package options for new students?

The best starting option is the 10 Day Unlimited pass. Ten consecutive days of unlimited classes plus a 15 minute private lesson with one of our experienced teachers. $75 total.

Your 10 days start from the date of your first class. Book your private lesson with the teacher in studio or directly on the Private Lesson booking page. Take as many classes as you want during these 10 days. If you upgrade to a Membership during your 10 Day, the $75 is credited toward your first month.

Other package options:

  • 1 Class · $34
  • 5 Class Pack · $160
  • 10 Class Pack · $300
  • Unlimited Monthly Membership · $240/month
  • Chicago All Access Membership · $300/month (all 4 Chicago studios)
  • 8x Monthly Membership · $190/month
  • 6 Month and Annual Memberships available at better monthly rates

Studio pricing pages:

How often should I practice at Ritual?

It is up to you. For optimal benefits, practicing three times per week or more lets your body learn the Weekly Peak Poses and acclimate to the heat and rigor of the practice.

Strength and flexibility and dedication. Practice, and all will come. But don't overdo it. Give yourself at least one rest day per week.

Can I opt out of physical adjustments?

Yes. Two certified teachers conduct each class. One guides the sequence of the class while the assistant provides hands on adjustments and demonstrations of the flows and complex poses. Assistants support you with advancements, feel good assists, modifications for injury, and even some extra water.

If you prefer not to be physically assisted, that is a beautiful choice. Just let the assisting teacher know prior to the start of practice or grab a "verbal assist only" candle which are provided at the Create Yours Station.


03 · The Experience

What makes Ritual.

The heat, the candlelight, the philosophy behind the practice.

What makes Ritual different?

Ritual Hot Yoga is like nothing you have experienced before. Students breathe, move, and sweat to the beat of the music during the entire 50 minute practice, inviting the chance to get lost in what becomes a dance between the body and the breath.

The flows move quickly. The music is loud. All classes take place in a candle lit room perfectly heated to 98 degrees. Once you find yourself in savasana, enjoy a mini massage complete with essential oils and a cool eucalyptus towel over your eyes. It is the ultimate release.

What are the benefits of practicing at Ritual?

So many. The benefits extend to your body and mind, not to mention the dynamic community of students and teachers housed within each studio. A few reasons:

Increase flexibility. Classes are designed with different types of stretching — PNF, active, and passive stretches — which target muscles in various ways for increased effectiveness.

Build strength. Ritual incorporates long holds in poses as well as bursts of movement known as "flows" that use body weight to strengthen muscles. The practice is more physically intense than the average class, with dedicated core sets and invited inversions offered in every class.

Sweat and release. As the humidity and heat in the room climbs, your body sweats and sweating feels good. Practicing in the heat has been proven to boost metabolism long after the practice has ended, as well as provide a sense of physical lightness and mental clarity.

Find focus. Breathing to the beat of the music invites the mind to stay present. In conjunction with the heat, the darkness, and the rigor, Ritual classes create a completely enveloping experience meant to provide you the opportunity to escape the chaos of your busy life off the mat. A regular Ritual practice teaches you to take this calming tool with you when you go.

How hot are the studios?

Ritual uses radiant infrared heat in each studio. Temperatures range from 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Kinder on the lungs than forced air.

Benefits of practicing in heat:

  • Increased flexibility. Heat warms up muscles and joints for greater range of motion.
  • Cardiovascular health. Vigorous, dynamic practice raises the heart rate. Regular practice improves heart health, circulation, and stamina.
  • Strength and endurance. The challenging nature of hot yoga engages muscles throughout the body for improved toning and endurance over time.
  • Stress relief and mental wellbeing. Breathwork and mindfulness combined with the heat helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity.
  • Weight management. Increased calorie burn from the elevated heart rate and physical exertion.
  • Balance and coordination. Balance poses and challenging sequences enhance overall body awareness.
What is the Ritual Weekly Peak Pose?

The Ritual practice is designed for sustainability and growth. Students who come to class three or more times a week have repeated opportunities to lengthen and strengthen the muscles and explore the techniques invited by the peak pose.

What seemed like an impossible shape on Monday becomes, if not attainable, at least imaginable by the end of the week. Focusing on a single peak pose all week long means students see consistent results more quickly than attending a week of haphazardly choreographed classes.

What is the Ritual Weekly Intention?

Ritual teaches more than just breath and poses. Yoga philosophy and the ways in which ancient teachings are applicable to modern life are at the core of our practice.

Weekly intentions allow you to learn the different philosophies that inspire your teachers, as well as invite you to explore the part of the yoga practice that transcends the physical. Intentions are invitations. Take what works and leave what does not.

What is the community like at Ritual?

The community at Ritual Hot Yoga is supportive, friendly, and diverse. Students come from all backgrounds and experience levels, and the studio emphasizes inclusivity and respect. Every body is welcome on the mat.

Each studio hosts a monthly Ritual Night Out which lets students meet like minded people who share the common thread of self improvement, self love, and the practice. A great way to meet new friends and have fun nights out in your city.


04 · Teachers

The people holding the room.

Credentialed, trained in the Ritual style, present with every student.

What is the experience of the Ritual teachers?

Every Ritual teacher has a minimum of 200 hours in a Yoga Alliance certified teaching course, many with multiple trainings in a variety of modalities. On top of that foundation, every Ritual teacher is trained in the specific Ritual style which is unique in itself.

All teachers are experienced in adjustments, intentions, and creating a safe space for every student who walks in the door. Learn more on the Teachers page.

Are hands on assists optional?

Always. If you prefer not to be physically assisted, just let the assisting teacher know prior to the start of practice or grab a "verbal assist only" candle from the Create Yours Station. The teaching team will respect your choice.


05 · Amenities

Bring nothing. Leave with everything.

Every studio is all inclusive. Walk in. Sweat. Soften. Leave better.

Is Ritual really all inclusive?

Yes. Ritual studios are all inclusive and provide premium mats, mat towels, face towels, essential oils, blocks, straps, MatSnaps, water refill stations, tea, coffee, showers, shower towels, changing rooms, luxury bath products, lockers, and amenities from hair ties to bags for transporting sweaty post yoga clothes, plus a fully stocked beauty bar. All amenities are provided for every class at no additional cost.

Each studio has three dedicated showers, changing facilities, and a lounge area for before or after class. Top of the line retail with Beyond Yoga, Alo, Lululemon, and branded Ritual gear is available for purchase.

Do I need to bring a yoga mat?

Absolutely not. Leave your mat at home. Each Ritual studio has preset mats from Manduka or Lululemon already waiting for your arrival. Once you enter, head to the Create Yours Station where you will find complimentary mat towels, face towels, essential oils, blocks, and straps for your use.

All you need to bring is your beautiful self.

Are there lockers and showers?

Yes to both. Each studio has dedicated secure lockers for each student to place their belongings, plus three showers with luxury bath products and a fully stocked vanity bar for post class. Changing rooms are also available at each studio.

Please note that Ritual Hot Yoga is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal items, however the Ritual Crew will do everything in their power to keep items secure during each class.


06 · Memberships

More than a studio. A community.

Pricing, commitments, freezes, and everything included.

What is included in a Ritual Membership?

When you become a member at Ritual Hot Yoga, you are joining much more than a yoga studio. You are entering a community of like minded, driven, and self aware individuals looking to grow their practice while discovering the potential of their true self.

The Ritual community is accepting, authentic, and encouraging. If you have been looking for connection and confidence, look no further.

Membership inclusions:

  • Unlimited classes at your home studio
  • 30 minute private session every month
  • Priority booking for classes and events
  • Exclusive pricing on retail, workshops, and retreats
  • New student guest passes
  • Waitlist priority
  • Advanced booking window
How much does a membership cost?

Membership options:

  • Unlimited Monthly · $240/month at your home studio
  • Chicago All Access · $300/month for unlimited at all 4 Chicago studios (River North, Wicker Park, West Loop, Lakeview)
  • 8x Monthly · $190/month for 8 classes per month
  • 6 Month and Annual memberships available at better monthly rates when purchased up front

The 10 Day Unlimited intro pass ($75) is the best place to start. If you upgrade to a membership during your 10 Day, the $75 is credited toward your first month.

Is there a commitment?

Yes. Each monthly membership begins with a 3 month initial commitment and then transfers to a month to month basis. For cancellations, a 30 day notice is required.

If you are not sure about the practice yet, the 10 Day Unlimited is the right place to start. No contract, no commitment, just ten days.

Can I freeze my membership?

Yes. Memberships can be frozen for a minimum of 2 weeks at a time and a maximum of one month per year. Reach out to your studio team to set it up — for travel, injury, or any other reason, we will work with you.

What does Chicago All Access include?

The All Access membership is $300 a month and opens every Chicago studio: River North, Wicker Park, West Loop, and Lakeview. Unlimited practice across all four. Everything in the standard membership is included: 30 minute private session every month, priority booking for classes and events, exclusive pricing on retail, workshops, and retreats, plus guest passes for new students.


07 · Studios & Parking

Seven studios. Find yours.

Every address, every parking option, every door.

Chicago

River North

750 N. Franklin Street, Chicago, IL

41.8957° N / 87.6356° W

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Parking

Street parking is typically available on N. Franklin Street in front of the studio. Bicycle parking is available in front and limited in-studio bike storage is offered first come, first served.

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Chicago

Wicker Park

2235 W. North Avenue, Chicago, IL

41.9103° N / 87.6845° W

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Parking

Street parking is available on North Avenue and on Bell Avenue. Bicycle parking is available in front and limited in-studio bike storage is offered first come, first served.

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Chicago

West Loop

847 W. Randolph Street, Chicago, IL

41.8847° N / 87.6498° W

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Parking

Street parking is available in the surrounding West Loop blocks. Bicycle parking is available in front and limited in-studio bike storage is offered first come, first served. Public transit options are nearby.

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Chicago

Lakeview

2805 N. Sheffield Avenue, Chicago, IL

41.9337° N / 87.6538° W

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Parking

Street parking is typically available on N. Sheffield Avenue in front of the studio. Bicycle parking is available in front and limited in-studio bike storage is offered first come, first served.

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Wisconsin

Lake Country

1040 Oconomowoc Parkway, Oconomowoc, WI

43.1100° N / 88.4998° W

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Parking

Parking is available in the connected parking lot. Bicycle parking is available in front and limited in-studio bike storage is offered first come, first served.

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Utah

Salt Lake City

3640 S. Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, UT

40.6987° N / 111.8430° W

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Parking

Parking is available in the connected parking lot. Bicycle parking is available in front and limited in-studio bike storage is offered first come, first served.

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California

SoMa, San Francisco

1122 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA

37.7770° N / 122.4115° W

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Parking

Street parking is limited along Howard Street. We suggest public transportation including BART and MUNI. The closest BART stop is Civic Center, located about two blocks away. Bicycle parking is available in front and limited in-studio bike storage is offered first come, first served.

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Still curious

Reach out.
We answer.

Call your local studio, send us a note, or come in for a class. The fastest way to know if Ritual is for you is to step onto a mat.