BeatRoot (1747/9 Chan Kao Road, Sathon), tucked away in a small soi off Narathiwas Road, is an up-and-coming yoga studio with an organic hair salon, nail salon and juice bar. The studio, which opened in 2015, has a rustic feel with a modern twist: a mixture of geometric shapes and wooden décor, with lush greenery and potted plants to complement the setting. BeatRoot's aesthetic is similar to that of a Khao Yai home in the mountains -- a refreshing getaway for city folks that's just a short taxi-ride away.
In addition to natural-air yoga classes, BeatRoot has recently introduced Hip Hop Zumba, a fun dance class that guarantees to make you feel like queen of the dancefloor while working up a sweat. Guru tried out this class with Kru Harn and here's the verdict from two different perspectives.
The fit and active
From the perspective of someone with two left feet, I wouldn't pin Zumba or dancercise as my go-to workout. Sure, strap me into a kayak, or send me off on a hiking expedition in Hong Kong. Dancing, however, was something I always viewed as being for the extremely skilled (and co-ordinated).
However, the Zumba craze has been taking the internet by storm and after being assured of its novice-friendly routines, I had to check it out. Upon arriving at BeatRoot, I was pleasantly surprised. After a glass of organic pressed juice and a friendly smile from the owner, we were brought upstairs. Their dance/yoga studio had a very open, relaxed feel, and although I was a dance class virgin, I didn't feel uncomfortable in any way. The instructor helped a lot to boost my confidence as well -- his enthusiasm was infectious and his (somewhat dirty) jokes alleviated any of the nervousness I felt.
Some of the steps were certainly aerobics-inspired, with high knee lifts and side steps, but where I was missing neon legwarmers and head bands, I found enjoyment in fast-paced movement to songs such as 3OH!3's My First Kiss and Jessie J's Bang Bang. Even though my body didn't quite flow the way the instructor's did (I felt like the tin man from The Wizard of Oz), I was still able to follow what he was doing.
What was helpful was that the dance teacher specifically chose moves tailored to maximise sweat in a beginner's routine. Though the actions themselves weren't difficult to mimic, all of them, when performed in rapid succession, lead to a very sweaty and breathless end result. I definitely felt like I had burned serious calories (or maybe it was just my legs begging for mercy from doing the "running man"). The class completely changed my perception of dancercise and is probably one of the most fun workouts I've ever had! g
– Chavisa Boonpiti
The occasional dancer
Undeniably, despite being considered as someone who is quite unfit, dancing is something that I have always enjoyed. Quite ironic, right? I had no idea what I was going to experience when I heard the word 'zumba'. The dances I've enjoyed recently are the ones I'd do with my friends to let loose our craziness.
Zumba was different, but nonetheless fun. I've had beginner basics when it comes down to dancing; being placed in a dance class as a little child certainly helped with the moves. The steps weren't unfamiliar at all. They gave me a taste of nostalgia of the days when I'd watch my dance instructor teach us moves. Not going to lie, I felt shy at first, but something about the music and the dance steps along with an amazing instructor really got me in the mood.
A few minutes into the song and I knew my body and the beat of the music became one. Sounds corny, doesn't it? But it was that entertaining. It went on for about 30 minutes and to think that I wasn't completely breathless after everything ended felt refreshing. Instead, it left me craving more. The visual of the dance studio was relaxing and the dance steps were easy to follow, though I wish I could have learned some new dance moves since the class was set for beginner dancers. Even so, I enjoyed it thoroughly. 10/10 would recommend and 10/10 would try it again.
Aside from the dance class, BeatRoot gave me such a sweet feeling of serenity with its sightly trees and trendy decorations. My, my, I could spend my weekends there forever. Oh, and the juices they offered were so refreshing and healthy. I wish they'd offer meals in their menus, too. Either way, it's a good place if you're looking for a quiet and comfortable place to relax your mind amidst the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. g
– Muantawan Viboonnun
BeatRoot is offering Seasonal Sunday Dance classes with rates of B600, ending Aug 30. Sunday Dance Zumba is a mix of hip-hop moves, designed for a fun morning workout. There are also special packages: 4 classes for B1,600 and 10 classes for B3,500. Visit fb.com/beatrootpuree or call 081-833-4554.
