Bamboomoves Forest Hills

Mmmmmmm — what to say. I really love this place and its so close to my house. I did all kinds of classes (12) here and I loved all, but one. The owner is super nice, Stephanie, and the teachers were GREAT! I mean GREAT! I had some very transforming practices at this studio. I went to a yoga class on a weekday afternoon — gentle, and the class was filled with retired folks just doing their thing. What a crowd, they were a lot of fun.
They even offer classes for special needs kids which is very cool since I don’t see any other studios offering this. I just love the vibe and kindness and love and energy here.
When you are waiting for a class the yoga room is separated by a curtain so you have to be quiet. This time is really beautiful to just sit in a room packed with people respecting the silence of the practice area, whispers at the most. It’s common for the workers at the desk to be somewhat disorganized. Haha — sorry, but they eventually figure things out. Much gratitude and love for this place.

I had the worst experience ever with the manager John. I had signed up for a 1 month unlimited student discount $ 59 for yoga classes, I had gone to the class once and then I had family crisis that I had to deal with. I have emailed them about it and asked if I can have the one month extended and they said they will, but I would have to pay for that one class I took. So I said that’s ok. I agreed with the offer they gave me. Unfortunately my situation got worse and I had to deal with more problems at home and couldn’t make it to the classes. So I emailed them and asked if I can have my money refunded to me, and only charge me for one class since I only went once. Manager John calls me and tells me that he can not extend my one month, that I would have to pay for the class, no refunds, and then he had the nerve to tell me that «I don’t think you really want these classes.» He acted like he was being considerate and helping by offering me to pay for another monthly discount and that he was already doing me a favor by offering that discount because it’s a one time deal. After explaining my situation to him, I was a shocked at how much he went out of his way to rip me off and convince me to get another package and refusing to refund my money. Each single class is 22 $ so I basically payed 59 $ for 1 class. Once they take you into there 1 month class you are basically stuck and they know it. Life happens things happen and they know they are getting more from you by paying this in advance, they are inconsiderate and have no heart. The way John spoke to me was beyond rude. And I would never do any business with them. For all of you out there who is looking for yoga classes re think in signing up to this one. They want to pocket your money and don’t care what you are going through.

I did yoga in many places, but in Bamboomovse I feel like home.
I love my teacher, i love the atmosphere there and I love the people around me.
I’m waiting for my next class:)

I absolutely adore this studio. I’ve been coming here for about a year now, and am so thankful that I found such an amazing yoga studio in Forest Hills. I’ve tried a few others in the area since I’ve lived here (Living Yoga, Zen & Yoga), and never felt like I really truly embraced a spot as much as I have BambooMoves. So what makes it so special?
Well, first of all, the space has gorgeous wood floors, bright windows full of sunshine, and beautiful decorations.
But what really shines here is the quality of the instructors. They are all so varied and unique in their styles, which I love… I feel like I get the taste of a different yoga experience with each different instructor. Having been to some of the ‘machine” yoga studios in Manhattan, this is an experience that really connects to me as I bore easily!
While they each have their special something, my absolutely favorite is Nikki Lopez. She holds a Friday night Ashtanga that I legitimately miss when I have a social event on Fridays. It’s THAT good. She’s so knowledgeable, and it’s been amazing to see my own progression in the series when I dedicate myself to being there.
I will say this — the Level 1’s don’t always feel like level 1’s to newcomers because the community that goes frequently seems more advanced than typical studios. But, I have never been in a class that didn’t accommodate, in a non-​judgmental way, beginners. In fact, they are enthusiastic about providing levels of poses so that everyone can find what they are looking for!
The only negative I can say… and this is really, the ONLY negative… is out of their control. It’s Queens Boulevard and the green taxi line that stands right outside of the studio’s walls. Listening to cabbies scream while entering Savasana is definitely an exercise in meditation… but isn’t that exactly what we’re there for? To ignore the outside world a bit, and listen to ourselves? Hmm, maybe it’s part of their plan after all… :)
GO!

i have been going there for over a year!
bamboomoves has yoga and they seem to promote mostly the yoga.
however, they have an excellent tai chi teacher, master sherry zhang and she teaches yang 24 form on friday and yang 36 on tuesday with a little some sword form at the end. you do get a good stretch, balance and coordination workout, especially if you’re a bit older.
also of note is the bellydance class with lynn. if you have been intimidated in other classes, lynn shows you the proper form for shimmies, snake arms with drills to help your muscle memory. the class is fluid, more basic if there are new people and layering if there are more experienced students showing up. in a recent class, she was showing basic veil skills, what fun!

Got a first month trial. I’m new to yoga, I don’t think this place is for newbies, their level 1 always included 10+ min of head stand!!! Calling the poses by name without a description on how to get to the pose. Loved Suzanne’s classes but unfortunately my schedule didn’t allow me attend to more classes with her. I joined yoga more for the therapeutic aspect but I attended some classes that were more like group workouts, very strenuous. I don’t think I’ll go back there, or if I do I’ll get a class package to attend only Suzanne’s classes. Everybody was very nice and helpful. Loved the vibe, maybe when I become better at yoga and can finally do a head stand (that seems to be a must to enjoy fully level 1 classes) I’d sign up to unlimited classes.

Such a pleasant studio once you go inside. The hallway is a bit confusing but once you step inside you are in a peaceful quite studio. Receptionist, megan, was very quick and got me settled in under 30 seconds even tho it was my first time. They have two smaller places to undress. Small intimate class with Lynn on Sunday. They provide free of charge hip scarfs. Lynn is amazing at taking things slowly and incorporating what you want.

I was introduced to this Yoga studio by Groupon got a great deal. I went to check out the studio. The owner was there she was so nice. The environment was light and inviting, sure there was merch visible yoga mat bags, water, etc. still it didn’t feel intrusive. She gave me my member card a schedule for the month’s classes and advised me on taking the beginner yoga class. Which I did.
The instructor was good looking and flexible (giggle) but on a serious note he was attentive and patient helping me with my stance when I was doing the positions incorrectly. The class is an hour thirty mins about. This is not for the faint of heart. I recommend that if you want to start taking Yoga and you have never taken a class in your life. Workout do some activity that gets your body stamina up. Then take the class. I stretched places I hadn’t in years. But when I was done I felt so good I would definitely go back.

I found the classes to be really helpful and therapeutic especially after my stressful job. I’m new to yoga so I appreciate Sue’s help and attention. I’m even getting more flexible.

Although I’ve lived in FH for many years, I must confess I’ve been Manhattan-​centric about my fitness studios, hair salons, etc. BambooMoves showed me how narrow-​minded that view was.
This is the best yoga studio I’ve been able to find. It’s the real deal — yoga as an age-​old discipline, geared toward serious practitioners and those interested in exploring the health and spiritual benefits of a contemplative practice. The instructors are knowledgeable and seem sincere in their dedication to their practice and their students. (My experience in Manhattan over the past decade or so has been that many studios were taken over by conglomerates that offered classes geared toward the gym crowd and led by newly certified 20-​somethings who seemed more like entertainment directors on a cruise ship.)
I was also impressed by the welcoming atmosphere of the staff and other students. There seems to be a less competitive, territorial attitude than I’ve witnessed in some Manhattan studios, particularly when a class is crowded.
Overall I’m thrilled that I was able to discover this jewel right in my own neighborhood.

5 stars for Bamboomoves in Forest Hills! The teachers are extremely in tune with their students, and highly educated in their practice. Each teacher brings different styles to the studio, which keeps you engaged. I would also like to add that you will find the teachers taking eachothers classes, which adds to the energy in the studio! Everyone at the studio is friendly and approachable. They offer lots of workshops, 200 hour teacher training, and retreats! I went to Thailand with them and it was absolutely incredible! My wife has also gone to a retreat in Massachusetts and she had a truly amazing time. The students are also very pleasant and approachable to practice with. I have been given a couple of great tips by some of the more advanced students in the class that have helped me out! The studio is also very clean.

I’ve been here twice so far for community acupuncture, which I love. I started receiving acupuncture treatments while living in Costa Rica and was shocked at how effective it is. You can treat most things with acpuncture… without the harsh side effects of many medications and other western medical treatments. Anyway, community acupuncture means there are up to four people being treated at the same time, which keeps the cost and time down. It also means that there’s a really great healing energy present in the room. The music is relaxing and the acupuncturist is sensitive and talented. My only complaint is that the room is a little cold because of the AC, but I’m sure most people like that. I get cold easily!
The receptionist is always kind and helpful. The reception area is very tranquil, which fits with the environment of the entire place. They do yoga and belly dance classes… I hope to try those out and write another review soon.

They’ve redeemed themselves. I became a skinny, low-​carbing diabetic who takes only dance here. Still practice yoga mostly at home.
So far, the dance classes here are a great $ deal … the schedule is Road Warrior-​friendly. I’m mostly taking Masala Bhangra … I, personally, am not and may never be, suitable for Zumba … but much-​needed cardio for this condition, can be found in this Indian dance form …
With regard to Belly Dance; thanks to Zumba though, which hatches many a cutting-​edge dance instruction philosophy – not being totally facetious here – the price is now right. Belly dance here is now taught NOT in competition with belly dance classes offered in Manhattan. The old belly dance régime would have been characterized by professional performing dancers who want to start a dance troupe. It is instead now taught as the cardio, drill-​intensive workout that it could be. Without losing the capability of performing or learning choreography. And my hips still get more flexible, heart gets stronger, and the bachelor party moves are still a possibility.
The dance teachers here are great!

«You can do it, you just got to change your mind.» Perhaps, this could refer to a tree pose or a headstand. Within the context that it was said, it did. But the yoga practice they teach at Bamboo Moves transcends beyond the mat.
I started taking classes at Bamboo Moves Forest Hills in May 2011 for the physical benefits of yoga. For the asana practice alone, I’d give this studio 4 stars. The instructors are very knowledgeable and provide safe asana practice as they encourage you to make the practice your own and go as deep as you can honestly go. Some classes, depending on level and/​or instructor, are more challenging than others. That diversity in level of difficulty and the instructors’ experience is definitely appreciated.
Yoga can be transformative physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Bamboo Moves receives their 5^th star because they provide a great resource to take the practice as deep as you would like. They offer workshops, retreats, book clubs, a variety of classes (asana, meditation and pranayama) and other events to help guide you through your personal yoga practice.
After a class, I’m always left with a great light and happy feeling. How awesome is that? Give this studio a try, I highly recommend it. Om shanti shanti shanti.

My idea of a great yoga class is one with space, smells good, has a spiritual component and a great instructor. What constitutes a great instructor? One that explains the benefits, comes over to correct your postures and a soothing voice doesn’t hurt.
Well I got most of this at BambooMoves. The instructor didn’t do many adjustments and the room is small but those are minor.
Although I enjoyed my session, I do have to say that I wished they had a «donations» class or «pay what you can» day as that would give people an opportunity to experience yoga without paying $ 45 for a trial month or more than twice that for classes. For a studio so small, where the bathrooms are public, you would think it wouldn’t be so expensive.
I also think the «sweaty» classes like capoeira, should be scheduled at the end of the day I hate having to walk barefoot in a room where people have been sweating all over the floor. And the energy in the room is less than Zen.
Overall a good experience.
Addendum: I have to add that I have been attending classes for month or so and I truly love they way the instructors attempt to get to know you personally and will teach classes with each level of expertise in mind. I had one instructor intuitively know that the class of all women needed pelvic and lower back stretching. She was so right on– as far as I was concerned.

Let’s start in a comfortable seated, crossed-​leg position with three ooms…
What I like about Bamboo Moves is the professionalism of the staff. I’ve been to several sessions at different times of the day and although each teacher does have their own style, technique and pace, I think that they remain consistent in their approach. The place is clean, warm and doesn’t smell neither — Went to one in the city last year and pew!
I am not a very flexible person but Yoga at Bamboo Moves has helped me get stronger and closer to my own personal goal.
Well done Bamboo Moves and see you next week!
Let’s end this review with three Ashanti’s…

I adore Bamboo Moves. I started here for yoga, and I was definitely impressed. The instructors are excellent, and the clientele seems very committed. The owners are wonderful and make you feel welcome. They’re always putting on cool events and sending out emails to tell you about it. For instance, they had a cleansing of the studio in the new year, and anyone was invited. But they also do retreats regularly, and health eating workshops and whatnot.
I now come regularly for belly dancing, and I’ve totally fallen for it. If you try out Bamboo Moves, check out the instructor Nasira. She’s helpful for all levels, and she encourages getting involved outside of the classroom too. It’s a great time!

I’ve studied yoga for ten years on and off and I’ve found the quality is rarely as good as in Manhattan.
Fortunately, BambooMoves came to Forest Hills and brought quality yoga with it. I started with the $ 45 unlimited classes for a month special and pleasantly surprised to find such challenging classes and friendly staff and classmates. The yoga classes have been challenging because Yoshio, Suzanne, Kaity, Sasha, and other teachers are like human-​pretzels. Yet, they also take time to adjust most every student often two to three times in a class. This is so much better than the NYSC or Crunch yoga classes where the classes were only geared towards first-​timers (NYSC) and/​or the teacher rarely adjusted you (NYSC /​Crunch).
The teachers and staff introduced themselves in the first class and really made you feel at home. The other students are very friendly and down-​to-​earth as well and I’ve made many friends here.
I enjoy the Om (Aum) chanting as well. It sets the tone and helps you transition into the special place of your practice. It also helps you connect with the teachers and students through the universal sound.
The capoeira with Graduado Pulga is great too. Even though I haven’t studied capoeira in ten years, it all came back very quickly and Pulga works with you in mastering the basics.
The tai chi with Master Zhang is yang style. I’ve studied Wu style for years but enjoy taking the yang style here as well because the tai chi principles are the same. Master Zhang is obviously an expert in the form and my legs are often so exhausted from the workout that I often take the seat reserved for the senior citizens.
My wish is that we have Ashtanga classes. I’m not aware of any in Queens.

I had to write an update.
Almost a year now that I’ve joined Bamboo and I have to say — now knowing of so many other studios, Bamboo is by far one of the best! and actually not the most expensive!
Now, Belly dance isn’t the only class I attend. I take Capoeira and the occasional Yoga as well. So paying for the monthly unlimited comes out to less than $ 13 a class! There are so many options so unlimited isn’t your only choice and you can accommodate your life style and budget.
People need to know that, yes, you can try out a class — but you just have to sign forms once (every place makes you fill out forms). Here’s the catch, and it’s not a scam! — if you like the class and wanted to take it a few more times BEFORE signing up for any packages — you can just pay $ 20−25(I don’t remember) more and now you have your first month unlimited — so you can take that class you’ve just tried 3 more times AND also try Any other class out in the month.
I love the energy of this place. It’s always so peaceful and the staff even knows you by your name — No other studio has achieved this feeling of comfort with me!
I’m devoteddd.

I just noticed they moved, next door to the adjacent building above the OTB off Queens Blvd.
I called the day before to sign up for the belly dancing class. When I arrived the day of, they kept trying to get me to sign up for a package or membership. I insisted I just wanted to try it out.
I sat in their waiting area and completed the forms. The waiting area is nicely decorated and was filled with yoga mats, books, and apparel for sale. There were large pillows or wicker cushions to sit on. There’s also 2 small changing rooms, a shoe rack, and a water cooler. While I was waiting, I watched the yoga class until the instructor put up a divider and blocked my view.
There is one large mirrored room and a private room for private yoga classes. Most classes take place in the large room. It’s very open but it can get hot since the A/​C units are built in and are a combined heating/​AC unit.
The weekend I went, the regular belly dancing instructor happened to be out so we got a substitute. Most of the attendees looked like regulars since they all had skirts except 2 of us. Most of them were older women. I was one of the few youngins. The class moved slowly for me, I picked it up quickly and was eager to learn and move on but the instructor didn’t.
I barely broke a sweat and wasn’t sore the next day. I’m not sure if I’d come back. Maybe I’ll give them another chance and try them out with the regular instructor but I can’t see the point of this class if it’s only one level. Compared to similar classes I’ve taken in the city for the same price, I’d rather go back into the city to take up the class. Classes I’ve taken in the city review the basic moves quickly (within the first 15mins or so) then move on to a choreographed dance or more advanced steps.
After the class the receptionist bothered me again about signing up for a package and told me she’d put my $ 25 towards the cost of a membership.
PS — There is no bathroom in the studio, it’s shared amongst the medical offices on the floor.