The number of new yoga studios in Toronto are a reminder that if you thought the scene had reached its peak, it's time to think again. New studios are continuing to pop up in all corners of the city, with Queen West and Leslieville attracting more than a few. Many new studios are choosing to make their mark on discerning yogis by offering a little something extra - think spin yoga, ballet barre classes, and gravity-defying aerial yoga.
Here are five yoga studios that have all opened in Toronto within the past year.
YYoga
The yoga behemoth on this list, YYoga has it all - spin bikes, hot and cool rooms, tons of product, and even an infrared sauna. Opening in September near Queen and John, this is the Vancouver-based company's tenth studio and first in Ontario. They offer 135 classes a week and eight kinds of yoga. The options are endless. I recommend the prop-heavy restorative class for some serious Zen time. Your first class is free, and there's a competitive monthly membership package - $120 for unlimited yoga and sauna - that is quite appealing given the extra amenities and top-notch shower and changing facilities.
Fly Queen West
Charming and boutique-y, owner Colin and instructor Natalie opened Fly Queen West in October to offer small classes in aerial and suspension yoga and reformer pilates. Aerial yoga is indeed different from suspension yoga, and hanging about in silk is great fun - not to mention the spinal decompression benefits. Needless to say, a floating, cocooned Savasana is something everyone should experience. Giggles are encouraged. Did I mention there's a warm and friendly vibe? Right now all drop in classes are only $15 (a pretty good deal in the yoga world).
Yogathletix
Conveniently plopped smack in the middle of Leslieville (Queen and Carlaw), Yogathletix opened almost a year ago with an agreeable mix of yoga, pilates, and barre classes. With a focus on body toning rather than "OM-ing", friendly instructors, a variety of classes, and a stunning studio room is more than enough to entice visitors. And if you haven't used an UGI ball, your triceps are in for a treat. Personally however, I plan on going back for the exposed brick and Britney beats. With your first month unlimited for $40, it's totally worth it.
Power Yoga Canada Leaside
Power Yoga Canada opened its first Toronto franchise in August and it already has a loyal following of Leaside yummy mummies (and daddies), getting their sweat on with the signature Power60 or Power75 classes. The bright studio has plenty of space, though the changing facilities leave a lot to be desired. Definitely more yang than yin, expect a hearty round of applause as opposed to a long Savasana at the end of class. One advantage to being located in a strip mall complex: unlimited free parking. There's a decent introductory deal, too - five classes for $40 - that amazingly doesn't expire.
Float Suspension
Amber, the owner and instructor at Float Suspension, opened her suspension yoga studio this past summer, nestled in the basement of a George Street town house. Cozy, yet smartly decorated, the space is equipped with state-of-the-art Omgym Suspension Systems. If you're new to the practice, Amber's Intro-to-Suspension class is a non-intimidating way to get the hang of it. Small class sizes (she can accommodate five people per class) mean more attention - and trust me, when you're maneuvering yourself into floating inversions you'll appreciate a spotter. Try your first class for $10, or two weeks unlimited for $45. After that it's a bit pricier - ten classes for $170 and one month unlimited for $198.
Writing by Jean Grant
by Guest Contributor via blogTO
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