Taking Yoga Out of the Studios
There’s a certain advantage to a studio that limits itself to yoga—an ethic of acceptance and serenity will be understood. But don’t forget that yoga is also offered at many local health and fitness clubs as part of a regular membership. You won’t get incense or Eastern deities, and you might hear the occasional clang of the weight machines outside the studio door, but instructors usually are certified and many also teach at yoga studios. Plus, the rates (no extra charge beyond membership fees) are significantly lower than yoga studios, which typically charge $17-$20 per class (with variations like monthly memberships and class cards). Balance, in Bethesda and Rockville, primarily offers Pilates in a fitness center-like environment but also has 10 or 12 yoga classes each week. Fitness First has a nice yoga space and one of the most comprehensive class calendars, with sessions offered five days a week. Other area gyms and organizations offering yoga include Rock Creek Sports Club, Precision Fitness, Washington Sports Clubs, the YMCA, Bethesda Sport and Health and Joy of Motion dance studio. Even the Montgomery County Department of Recreation catalog has pages of yoga classes to choose from.
In addition, numerous yoga Classes meet in local churches and basements—you can find them through the Yoga Alliance (yogaalliance.org) or at area studios, where yoga instructors may teach regular classes and take private clients on the side.
Virginia Myers is a freelance writer who lives in Takoma Park.