A beautiful independently owned studio in the heart of Ewing! Empower Yoga is a breath of fresh air, just like the owner, Keri, is herself!
Walking into the studio, you can tell it was a labor of love - every detail had been pre-planned and thoughtfully implemented; from the colorful organization/storage for guests' belongings, to the aromatherapy diffuser, multiple benches, and even the bathrooms with a shower (yes, a SHOWER) stocked with soaps and amenities for those who need to shower before work/leaving yoga. Everytime I walk in, I'm welcomed with a smile and a genuine conversation from either the owner herself, or one of her amazing staff members.
I've taken a variety of classes from different instructors, and each one is better than the last - some of my favorites include Hip Hop Yoga (get ready to sweat your booty off in this one!) and any class that Keri teaches (she's going to challenge you). Most classes are intense Core Power Yoga, and the owner is an amazing yogi/marathoner/crossfit coach/ironman champion - she's usually found before class happily chatting with her students discussing safety while working out or ways to make adjustments in order to avoid triggering injuries if you're struggling with something. It's very comforting to know that she's conscious about this, and looking out for her students!
The studio is a feature in the relatively new Campus Town at TCNJ - there (at this point) is usually available parking outside the studio doors, or around the corner. Parking is free (bonus!) There is one studio room, but it's very large (with super high ceilings). There are 2 doors into/out of the room, which adds to great air flow and helps rapidly cool the room from the ~93 degrees in which we practice.
One thing to note, the studio does hot yoga, which I've never experienced but I am now a total convert. The studio is complete with a humidifier to maintain a healthy heat for the yogis. Despite everyone dripping sweat by the end (or to be realistic, within 3 minutes of class starting), the studio smells clean and fresh - there is a lot of attention to keeping the studio clean and smell free, which is greatly appreciated! The scents are never overpowering or artificial - despite it being a yoga studio, it feels a little bit like walking into a spa. Each class is finished with an eucalyptus-scented cold damp towel, which is provided during savasana - a blissful way to end an amazing workout!
Empower Yoga is committed to being part of the community, and often has multiple community events going on - from community fundraising classes, to trainings, and even promotions. This month (October 2018) she's running a challenge for her students, anyone who comes 3/week for the entire month is entered into a raffle to win prizes, gift certificates, or experiences from other local Campus Town businesses. Work out more to win prizes - sounds like a win-win!
Prices are pretty competitive for the area - and discounts are offered the more often you attend. Currently there's a $40 unlimited for 4 weeks pass offered to new guests only. Regular drop-in classes are $12, but class packs are offered at an even lower rate: 5 class pack- $55, 10 class pack- $100, and 20 class packs- $180. Online lists discounts for student/military/seniors and monthly/annual auto-enroll as well.
Come check it out - you probably won't want to leave! read more