This place just proves that you get what you pay for. I took 4 pole aerobics classes here (they're $25 for 1.5 hours) and it made me realize just how much it's worth it to pay a little more for classes at S Factor ($55 for 2 hours). Pros: -For 2 or 3 songs at the end, you get to do whatever you want on the poles (you switch poles about every 20 seconds when the teacher yells or blows a horn). This is fun, although not very safe since anybody can do anything they want, even if they have zero instruction and have only seen advanced students doing the trick in the back of the room during class. -You can sign up for single classes. -It's cheap. -Front desk staff were pleasant. Cons: -The studio is small, with bright lights on, windows that open to the next room, and a random guy that teaches other classes coming in and jumping on the pole. Really not relaxing or sensual, especially when you're wearing tiny shorts and trying to feel sexy. -The instructor (nicole) does not appear to have any fitness training. She just yells out a move (things like jumping lunges) and then stands there while the class does 50 or so (sometimes she just stares into space or at her nails, not even watching the class). There is no information on how to do the move safely, what muscles should be working, etc. And there is a wide array of fitness levels (and sometimes sobriety) in the room, so there should be more guidance and/or options on how to do things safely. Also, some of the moves are done super fast, especially in abs, which means it's just momentum and jerking your body around, not actually working out the muscles (at least according to every personal trainer and pilates instructor I've ever had). -Lots of the pole tricks are awkward. It's like watching a really unsexy person trying to be sexy - uncomfortable and embarrassing to watch. For example, there is one trick where you back your butt to the pole, bend over, put hands on the floor, and lift a leg up to push against the pole. It may look neat once you're in position, but there is nothing sensual or pretty about the move. And for upside down tricks, they teach you to kick into them and try to hopefully grab the pole with your foot. So there's a bunch of out of shape women flinging their bodies around with legs flailing and usually missing the pole and kind of crashing to floor. Doesn't seem safe, and certainly isn't sensual. -Every class I took started late, anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes late. They also ended late so we got most of our class time, but it's still inconvenient and I think rude to the customer. -You keep a list of the pole tricks you've learned so far at the studio, so the instructor can figure out what to teach you next. At first, I liked that idea. But what happens is that half the room is first-timers and half is repeat customers. So the class is split into two groups and you only have the instructor's attention for half the time. And then if there are several people in your "experienced" group that have attended a different number of classes, everybody is learning something different so you end up just watching people get taught things that you already learned and then time is up and you didn't get to learn many new things. Also, the instructor tries to make up "combinations of tricks" for you to work on, but she is literally making them up on the spot and scribbling them on a piece of paper. read more

I am honestly surprised that there are so many negative reviews for Inner Me. I absolutely love it there!!! I have been going there consistently since March, and get a great workout every time I go. I have taken the Stilletto fit, kickboxing, and pole dancing aerobics, and have no complaints. The staff always pushes me to go further. They sometimes do start a little bit later (never been more than 10 minutes), but you will get your entire hour or 90 mins (depending on how long the class is.) that you paid for. I have learned so much at Inner Me and can see an improvement in my flexibilty and stamina, I am stronger, and I am able to do things I could not imagine (especially on the pole). After taking the stilletto fit and pole, I can honestly say it has helped me tap into another side that I did not think I had. The kickboxing is extrememly intense. I am drenched in sweat within the first 15 mins...hands down its a better workout than the p90x kenpo. The prices are very affordable too! Each class is a good size, allowing you to get some personal attention from the instructor to make sure you have correct form. In the pole dancing classes the maximum size is 10 students and there are 5 poles, so you get to spend lots of time on the pole. As far as the comment for the mats smelling like sweat, that is not true. They clean them after each use, and I have never smelled any kind of BO on them. They also have a shower, which was very clean, and can be used at no charge. The owner is great too, she is a little bit quiet intitially, but she does a very good job at running the business. The receptionist is extremely friendly and bubbly. It seems more natural for people to file a complaint versus a compliment, so please dont let these negative comments deter you from giving it a try. I highly recommend this place. Its a boutique fitness center so it has its own character and style. The instructors are a delight and the studio is very charming! read more

The first time I heard about this fitness studio was through a friend who wanted to try out the pole aerobics class. Being someone who had heard of this new fitness trend I wanted to see what all the hype was about so I went along for the class. To my surprise the class size was great for one on one instruction and each person goes at their own pace so you don't have to worry about catching up or being left behind. It gave me a real workout (as i was still feeling it the next morning) and was affordable not to mention I had a blast. I went back the next day to try out the stiletto fit class. This class in one word, diva-licious! The class size was a bit larger, but the instructor makes sure everyone is able to keep up. You start off learning some of the hottest moves that you see on the videos and once you've learned the routine its time to put on those heels and strut your stuff. I too got a good workout in this class and was shocked at the amount of energy it actually takes to move like the dancers in the videos. My fav class by far. I have been back to both classes several times since and brought many friends along for the fun.I love going to Inner me Studios. I get a great workout w/o having to go from machine to machine in a regular gym. I definitely recommend this studio to those who want an alternative to a conventional gym for getting in shape while having a good time read more

I came across Inner Me via Google last year while looking for a place that was totally out the box fun from the regular dinner, drinks & club to celebrate my 35th birthday. It had a private party that was Belly and Burlesque dancing. My guests, which included my mother, best friend's mother and other girlfriends of mine had a blast the whole time we were there. The instructors were awesome and made us feel absolutely comfortable with our bodies to move freely with the music. After that one time, I was hooked! I instantly hit it off with the instructors, who invited me to return to take the additional dance classes that they offered. I waited a few weeks to return, but I did with another friend in tow. The first class I took was Monday night's chair (7p) & Hip Hop(8p) instructed by Donnie J. I instantly fell in love with those 2 classes. I continued to go back every day, trying a new class each time. Before I knew it, I was there every day, doing 2-3 workouts a night. From late September 2012 to December 2012, I lost 32lbs by continuing to work out at Inner Me! The instructors and the unbelievable fun is what continued to draw me back to IMS each evening and this is still what keeps me coming back for more. I love that fact that I have built bonds with the instructors to where they too are genuinely invested in me to ensure that I win! read more

Okay let's just say I'm getting older and I KNEW it was time to start an exercise regimen. I'm a huge procrastinator and said I would join a yoga class in January. Well it's now March and I had yet to make move. Then a coworker invited us to an a private party at Inner Me Studios and we had a blast!! Shall I say the rest is history!! I signed up for their trial period of taking any and all of their classes. I'm in love with Urban Aerobics and Yoga. Im aiming to try other classes as well such as Nightclub Cardio, Chair Dancing and more. I did the open house for Deep Stretching... Let's just say I have some improvements to make before I try again! The class attendees are mixed ages and abilities, I don't feel out of place. This is exactly what I've been looking for! Fun and varied opportunities to become healthier. I'm in love and I invite you to join me on the journey of working out and improving our Inner Me! You will not regret it! read more

I've been a member of Inner Me Studios for almost a year and I can honestly say that I will keep on coming back. I go to both the Hillcroft and Richmond locations. The 6-month ME Unlimited package is a great deal. I go to as many ME class as I want and get a great discount on my pole classes. Whenever I walk in the people are friendly and know your name (Shoutout to Leslie & Nicole)!. I've taken Urban Aerobics (Quincy), Piyolet (Roslyn), Bellydancing (Aisha), Zumba (Kaccee & Spencer), Chair Dancing (Donnie & Darian), Pole (Corey & Brandi & Rebecca), Stiletto Fit (Quincy & Darian), Nightclub Cardio (Trish) and Hip Hop (Donnie) and all of the instructors are talented, genuine, certified in their field, and extremely kind. This really has become a 2nd home for me as I dive deep into taking care of my health and wellness. read more

After a less than stellar first time at Inner Me Studios, the owner Nicole has gone out of her way to compensate the experience for me. I have taken the Piyolet, mat pilates, and a pole dancing aerobics class. I liked the piyolet, but found it a bit disruptive to have people from the pole dancing class walking through. I LOVED the pilates class. The instructor was great, and it was actually an intense mat pilates class. While the pole dancing really was a good workout, and the instructor was sweet as peaches, let's face it - i'm just not going to be able to trade in my Toms for some heels and slide down that puppy. I'm glad I tried it, though. I think there are still some kinks that need to get worked out, but I appreciate a new business trying to provide women with a variety of fun fitness outlets. read more

Small, intimate, private, fun and the staff very friendly! Not intimidating!! When I first walked in, the staff was so pleasant! It felt like I was at home. I only went twice, because I have been extremely busy with work. They give you a lot of options and recommendations when you don't know which class to choose. Also, a lot of the women are walking around showing off their bodies, it's really cozy and cool. They have a lot of classes like pole, lap, and ballet fusion that is extremely hard to find in Houston! They also have good deals you just have to make sure you use them before they expire! I got four pole classes for $39! Thats like 10 dollars a class and the instructor gets to spend a lot of time with you! All in all, its creative, cozy, cool and I love Inner Me! Cannot wait to go back! read more

I like that the classes I take at InnerMe allow me comfortability in exploring my inner self without feeling the pressure that I have to be perfect. The staff is very friendly and accommodating and the facility has an intimate feel. I have been going now for three weeks and with each week, each class I am becoming more and more relaxed in allowing my body to move and feel the choreo. I love to dance, but I have two left feet and the classes I take (chair, pole, strength/conditioning and body moves) help me change my two left feet into one right and one left - LOL!!! So if you are looking for a place to explore your inner self and be free, InnerMe Studios is for you (both locations - Hilcroft and Richmond). read more

Inner Me Studios is fantastic, equipped with top-notch equipment and a great environment. The service is excellent, with friendly staff members who maintain a super clean and comfortable atmosphere. It is a place where both beginners and professional athletes can train effectively. Coach Obu is highly skilled and dedicated to helping you reach your fitness goals. The staff is friendly and highly skilled, creating a supportive and motivating environment. I have achieved goals that I never thought were possible at my age, and I eagerly look forward to my workouts each week to improve my physical and mental health. read more

Thank you so much for making our Girls Nite Out Chair Dancing Party AMAZING!!!!!!! The staff was very polite and helpful in organizing our party. We had so much fun. The ladies are already talking about hosting their own parties there. We can't wait to try the other classes that you offer. Donnie was all that I had hoped he would be, very entertaining and energetic! I can't wait for our next visit. Thanks again! -Antoinette Shabazz -Zumba Fitness ZIN instructor -Licensed Cosmetologist read more

Mrs. Trish and the rest of the staff made it an overall fun and enjoyable experience! For the majority of us, it was the first time taking a pole class. Everyone said how much fun they had and a few of us discussed when we would do it next. I love physical challenges and it challenged me in a way I hadn't imagined. Class was on Saturday and I am still feeling it in the most interesting places on Monday. It is a great feeling though! Thank you for the memorable and wonderful experience! read more

My wife loves this gym, and I just got finished scheduling classes (with her consent, of course) between now and August 2012! We're new to Houston and are grateful for the opportunity to pay by the class. I'd love to find the male equivalent of Innerme where I could maybe pay by the visit for weight training, etc. In the meantime, I'll gladly send my wife so that she can enjoy the experience, as she loves the opportunity to combine dance with fitness! Keep up the good work! read more

If you're looking to get out of your shell, discover your sexy, and have an Awesome experience all at the same time then i would definitely recommend this studio. I booked a pole dancing party for my friends and I for a little pre birthday Turn up and I was more than pleased with the service and the vibes given by my awesome instructor Donnie(onyx). I will be back for individual pole classes as well as the chair dancing classes. Thank you all again for this experience. read more

I went to the Chair Dancing class with Donnie, and it was SO much fun! Donnie made me laugh and WERK as we twerk! This is a great fitness class for people interested in high energy dance, sensual movement, and for fitness freaks that don't take themselves too seriously. Why not have fun while you work out? Feel free to bring some heels to dance in, but don't change into them until AFTER the warm-up! Doing jumping-jacks in stilettos is a little tricky! read more

I absolutely love this studio!!! I did the 30-day Piyolet challenge at the studio almost 3 years ago and hadn't been back until maybe a couple of weeks ago and the level of service remains the same: AWESOME! Everyone there is extremely nice and helpful, and the instructors are wonderful. I purchased the 30-day class pack for $39 and have thoroughly enjoyed the Hip-Hop Piyolet and Stiletto Fit classes. I can't wait for my next class! read more

Took my first class last night...Stiletto Fit. Awesome class. Loved the whole vibe of the place and everyone (instructors and members) were very nice and inviting. The instructor of the class was Quincy...LOVE HIM. He broke everything down into easy to learn steps. He is very positive and motivating. Got a great workout but it didn't feel like one. My best friend and I had so much fun. Can't wait to take more classes. read more

I've never poled before, but Inner Me was the perfect place to start! After coming to a couple classes, I feel confident in saying that I've learned a lot, had a great time with my instructors (Jocelyn, Renee), and have always come out of classes with new skills/ better technique than I had going in. The workouts are great-very happy, enjoyable, upbeat, sexy, and body-friendly! Staff/class environment is friendly! read more

I really enjoy the variety and sensuality of the classes being offered and the flexibility of being able to take as many classes that we want for a flat monthly rate. The classes are a lot of fun. I look forward to working out and being in the company of other women who share the same interests in fitness and sexiness. I highly recommend Inner Me Studios to anyone. It's not your average fitness gym. read more