I'd simulate the test frequently. You need to condition your body (and mind) on how to react during the test (I've seen lots of guys fart and never recover during such a test).
Dropping 6 pounds in 1 week (especially the first week) isn't alarming. We've all heard stories of folks dropping that much weight during one high intesity, hot workout (I'm thinking of stories...
I've heard of folks taking a sock and filling it with rice...then microwaving it until it's warm and using it as a hot pad. Maybe that's what he's talking about????
I'd say they are pretty reasonable with their judging. Wouldn't surprise me if they let somebody get away with a few reps early on, but tightened up their standards as the rep count got a bit higher....
Don't be hatin on yoga :-) You can get a good workout doing some forms of yoga (and some forms are a little more on the relaxing side...which also has it's benefits)