The Front Row

Being at the front row of a Bikram class is much like being on the front row of a fashion show: it's highly coveted, you're in full view and it makes everyone else green with envy.

The benefits of being on the front row (according to my instructor at least) are as follows:

- it increases your concentration

- you can see yourself better in the mirror (hardly a plus point in my humble opinion)

- if there are lots of new people in the room they have a better idea of what they should be doing

- it blocks the self delusional people who think they should be there but aren't worthy from taking up room (ok I added that but I stand by my position)

A few years ago I vowed that I would be in the front row of the class - reserved for only those special few that can master the series and can be watched by the newbies who rely on them for visuals to accompany the instructor's dialogue.

That moment arrived last week - I was somewhat reluctant. While all three instructors at the studio felt I was ready I had identified at least four postures that needed improving before I can allow myself to be subjected to such scrutiny by other yogoholics. I've done it twice now, it ain't always pretty - the pressure for every posture to be perfect is immense. Furthermore you are right in the instructor's line of vision and will be prompted (to lower your chin and lift your body similtaneously which I was under the impression went against basic anatomy) much more often than if you hide near the fire exit (my place of comfort).

I'm reluctant to return to the front row any time soon, instead of seeking inner peace I kept getting flashbacks of high school P.E, not the best way to centre yourself! HoweverI may not hide at the back either, next time I'll switch to the other side of the room, go into the middle of the class and just generally alternate where I position myself.

While it may seem that the lesson is to be careful what you wish for, in fact I'm glad I'm out of my comfort zone, Bikram is all about pushing the boundaries both physically and mentally, not getting stuck in a rut but instead feeling each session as if you've achieved something new.