Is Yoga Edition’s third outlet at CIMB Plaza a namast-slay or namast-nah? I signed up for its hot yoga and reformer pilates classes to find out.
CBD girlies (and men), Yoga Edition’s newest outlet at CIMB Plaza just made your lunch and post-work workouts easier. A quick three-minute stroll from Raffles Place MRT station, the location really doesn’t get more convenient than this. I’ve made it my personal mission to try as many pilates and yoga classes in Singapore, so of course, I had to book a sweat sesh at Yoga Edition. Here’s how it stacks up against the usual boutique studios I frequent!
Details at a glance
Best for: Convenient lunch-time or post-work classes for CBD hustlers
Standout class types: Core Yoga; Hot Vinyasa; Reformer Foundations; Power Reformer
Prices: Monthly membership from $126
Opening hours: Weekdays, 7am to 10pm; Saturday, 8am to 8pm; Sunday, 8am to 7pm
Address: Yoga Edition, #B2-01, CIMB Plaza, 30 Raffles Place, Singapore 048622
A welcome escape from the CBD hustle
Navigating through the throngs of people at Raffles Place MRT station is easily any introvert’s nightmare. Especially between the hours of 11.30am and 1.30pm, and 5pm to 7pm, when the corporate crowds come roaring alive. Once I successfully survived the crowds and reached basement 2 of CIMB Plaza for my lunch class, it felt like I had stepped into a relaxing escape.
The entire basement 2 is home to True Group’s fitness studios, namely TFX Fitness gym and Yoga Edition’s yoga and pilates studios. There’s a designated counter for Yoga Edition members – just look out for a small placard. Let the front desk staff know you’re here for a class and they’ll check you in. You’ll be handed an RFID wristband that opens and locks a personal locker, as well as a small and large towel (if you’re hitting the shower after).
I appreciate how the locker and shower facility is massive enough that you don’t have to bump shoulders with fellow members. With both sweat and bath towels provided, there’s one less thing to pack and worry about when you’re rushing for class. And if you’re wondering, the usual toiletries, hair dryers and dressing tables with mirrors are also available.
Turning up the heat on yoga
My workout for the day was a Hot Hatha class. For the uninitiated, hatha yoga is a gentle introduction to the world of yoga. Foundational poses make up the bulk of the class, alongside gentle stretches and breathing practices. I opted for the heated environment to keep things a tad spicy.
Regular yogis will know that spaciousness is a hallmark of a good studio, and Yoga Edition’s studio delivered. The 20-plus yoga mats were nicely spread out across the studio and the surrounding mirrors made the space look even airier. Come early to get first dibs on your fave spot – I recommend one with an unobstructed mirror view for easy form-checking!
The one-hour class took us through a series of sun salutations, warrior, chair, and downward-facing dog poses. The instructor was clear in her instructions and came around to offer adjustments on the poses.
My only gripe? The temperature felt cooler than the hot yoga and pilates classes I was used to. As someone who leaves her workout classes happily drenched, I barely broke a sweat in this class. That isn’t to say the workout was easy, as I was visibly trembling when holding some of the poses!
Grip socks on for a reformer burn
Besides yoga classes in 25 different styles, pilates princesses will be pleased to know Yoga Edition also offers five reformer class types. Having tried a couple of studios in Singapore, I’ve noticed that the intensity can vary drastically. I decided to try the beginner-friendly Reformer Foundations class to see how it compares with others.
Bring along a pair of grip socks, or purchase yours from the front desk. Reformers are first-come-first-served, so head down early to snag your favourite spot. Tip: if you’re a first-timer to reformer pilates, come by at least 10 minutes earlier for a quick run-through of the machine with the instructor. But, if you’ve been to other studios, this reformer machine is pretty much similar.
Slow and controlled movements were at the heart of the 50-minute class. From my thighs and glutes to my upper body and core, every part of my body was thoroughly worked. Beginner or not, trust me, you’ll still feel that addictive burn.
Namast-slay or namaste-nah?
Fitness studios are a dime a dozen in Singapore, and it’s tricky to stand out among the crowd. As someone who typically patronises boutique studios, I’ve to admit that the atmosphere at Yoga Edition feels slightly clinical, missing that personal warmth that usually keeps me coming back.
That said, the studio delivers the essentials: professional instructors, ample shower facilities and changing rooms, and a guaranteed sweat session. Plus, its monthly membership from $126 puts it on par with (or more competitive than) single classes that start from $30 and upwards. Still on the fence? I recommend the complimentary trial to see if it’s your cup of tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Yoga Edition at CIMB Plaza located?
This Yoga Edition outlet is located at #B2-01, CIMB Plaza, 30 Raffles Place, Singapore 048622. Here’s our recommended route: take the train to Raffles Place MRT station, find exit M, look for the escalator beside Old Chang Kee, and take it to basement 2, where the studio is. Psst: it shares a space with TFX Fitness!
Are the classes at Yoga Edition beginner-friendly?
Yes, Yoga Edition incorporates over 25 yoga styles and five reformer class types that cater to all levels of practitioners. New yogis can try slower-paced classes like Restorative Yoga, Gentle Flow, Gentle Yin and Soundbath, and Yoga Therapy; while beginners to reformer pilates can start with the Reformer Foundations classes.
Which classes are suitable for intermediate and advanced practitioners?
Try skill-based yoga classes like Arm Balances, Inversions and Backbends; while more advanced pilates classes include Power Reformer, Reform + Flow, and Sculpt + Stretch Reformer.
How much is the membership fee at Yoga Edition?
Memberships at Yoga Edition Singapore start from $126 a month and you’ll get access to all yoga and reformer pilates classes.
Is there a free trial at Yoga Edition CIMB Plaza?
Yes, you can sign up for a complimentary yoga class on Yoga Edition’s website!
