Photo courtesy of Wake Up Yoga

What I wanted: A not-too-hard, not-too-easy weekend yoga class that is welcoming, affordable, and near my home.

What I tried: The 10 a.m. Energizing Vinyasa class at Wake Up Yoga’s Fairmount location on Sunday, October 10, 2010.

Who was teaching: Biz Magarity

Student/teacher ratio when I dropped by: 14:1

Lockers/Showers: No showers or lockers, but there are changing rooms. Most importantly, there are free mats, blankets, and blocks available for use during class and towels and water can be purchased.

What I loved: Biz! She was extremely warm and calming in her teaching, but also firm about how poses should be completed. When she needed to adjust a student’s pose, she was easygoing, instead of demanding. She also incorporated chanting into the beginning and end of the class in a way that was soothing, instead of obtrusive.

Did I sweat?: A little. It wasn’t as extreme as Bikram, but the movements were much more rapid than typical yoga class. It was challenging without being painful or stressful.

Do it or Ditch it: Do it. But show up early. This class wasn’t terribly crowded, but I can envision this small studio getting packed really quickly in the evenings or on holidays.

Weigh In: Have you tried this class? Tell us what you thought! And if you have a class you loved or hated, let us know. We could run your Sweat Test on the Be Well Blog!

$14 drop-in ($10 for students and some morning classes are $7). Class cards are also available. Prices range from $65 (for five classes) to $618 (for six months of unlimited classes). Wake Up Yoga, 2329 Parrish Street, 215-235-1228. wakeupyoga.com