Turning up the heat in Portslade
Tucked away on Franklin Road in Portslade, Hot Yoga South is more than just a yoga studio, it’s a warm, welcoming sanctuary where sweat, strength and serenity meet.
Founded by Carolyn Jikiemi-Roberts (known affectionately as CJ), the studio has become a beloved part of Brighton and Hove’s wellness scene, offering an inclusive space where everyone, from complete beginners to seasoned yogis, can stretch, breathe and grow.
The heart of Hot Yoga South is the classic 60 or 75-minute hot yoga sequence: 26 postures and two breathing exercises performed in a room heated to around 40°C. It’s the original Bikram style, designed to challenge both body and mind while encouraging deep focus and resilience. But the studio’s offerings go far beyond the traditional.
Alongside the signature classes, there’s Inferno Hot Pilates (a high-energy, music-driven workout), Power Flow (a dynamic, warm Vinyasa practice), and the soothing Restorative Yoga with Wheel classes, perfect for stretching out tension and calming the nervous system.
CJ’s philosophy is simple and refreshing: yoga is for everybody. “Most students can’t do 90% of the postures 90% of the time and that’s okay,” she says. That attitude sets the tone for a space that feels safe and unpretentious. Regulars praise the friendly teachers, the sense of community and the genuine encouragement to listen to your own body rather than chase perfection.
Newcomers are welcomed with a generous introductory offer: £39 for 30 days of unlimited classes making it easy to find your rhythm. The studio’s online schedule is packed, with morning and evening sessions to fit around busy lives.
Beyond the physical benefits, there’s something deeply grounding about practising in the heat, especially in the darker months. Each class offers the chance to sweat out stress, quiet the mind and leave feeling not just fitter, but more centred.
For those looking to balance strength with mindfulness or carve out a pocket of calm amid Brighton’s bustle, Hot Yoga South is a beautiful place to begin.
www.bikramyogabrighton.com / 26–28 Franklin Road, Brighton BN41 1AF
