The studio is nifty and the wooden floors area pleasant experience. The teachers are talented and friendly The big surprise and disappointing part was that they hijacked my Google email account. I had to change passwords and get them out of my personal stuff Creepy biz practice read more

My high heels need therapy. Instead of adorning my feet and complimenting my wardrobe, they lay idly day in day out in my closet. I should have known we wouldn't be compatible; I bought with my eyes instead of with my comfort. The Feldenkrais Center of Houston and NiaMoves co-hosted a 3 hour heel camp on "How to Walk in High Heels" today. When I first read "How to Walk in High Heels" event on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/s.php?q=mary+beth+smith&n=67108871&k=400000000010&sf=nf&init=q#/event.php?eid=119672592094&ref=ts it caught my attention. Surely I knew how to walk in heels. I also knew my limitations (I tend to avoid 3'' or higher). Still, with taking the class, there was a possibility I could reconcile my love of pretty high heels with my comfort. Down to earth, warm, non judgmental, and generous are the words that describe Mary Beth, the high heel guru. She made the comfort of everyone her first priority. Her directions were very clear, so there were very few instances where she needed to help others with their poses. As she explained the various feet, leg, and body movements, she encouraged feedback, questions, and assessed our progress. We learned about how muscle groups, stretching, and self awareness can help our bodies minimize the effects of high heels on the body. The ball of my foot and my ankles definitely felt more comfortable in heels after learning the strategies. I wasn't as tense either. By giving us handouts on what we covered and by sending us audio files on how to improve from this point forward, MaryBeth went above and beyond to ensure that we truly benefit from these strategies and build upon what we've learned. If you see black slacks and purple glitter nail polish on Mirror Mirror, those are my toes. ABC was at NiaMoves filming for an upcoming episode for Mirror Mirror. The show will air on TV Fall 2009. $$$ TIP: Register online at niamoves.com and you can get two weeks free in your choices of pilates, Tai Chi, Yoga, Nia, and Zumba Classes. Isn't free great?! There is no sign of high heels ever going out of style. This class has given a renewed sense of purpose to those lonely heels of mine. My high heels and I are on good terms now. read more

I can't really explain the odd, coincidental set of circumstances that prompted me to show up for my first Nia class (I don't often try new things on the spur of the moment), and I don't know how I was comfortable doing things with a group of strangers that included shouting, dancing and pretending I was an ocean wave. But I do know that it was one of the best cardio workouts I ever had, and the most fun by a mile. I now attend three Nia classes a week and look forward to every session like a five-year-old looks forward to recess. Nia (which stands for Neuromuscular Integrative Action) is, according to their website, "a dynamic cardiovascular workout that stimulates and integrates your mind/body/spirit and leaves you feeling recharged, rejuvenated, and fully alive." I can definitely attest to that! In addition to Nia classes, the two studio locations offer yoga, pilates, aikido, tai chi, ZUMBA and several other body therapies. They also have a full plate of workshops on everything from Tantra for Couples to Exotic Dancing for Everyday Women. If you have an inner dancer, martial artist or yogini begging to be released, Nia is probably the place for you to discover it. The instructors are highly-skilled and very unique in their presentations, so it pays to try a few different classes and see if a particular person speaks to you. Their studios are roomy, well-lit and provide ample parking space. Best of all, they offer a two-week free trial coupon on their website (niamoves.com) for beginners -- so you can check out their different classes and see if it's right for you. read more

I hate to be the lone dissenter in the group... I am usually up to try anything. I went to the studio several months ago for a tibetan gong massage event, and picked up a flier. It was a 2 week trial at NiaMoves for free. I've been hanging onto the flier until I had time really use the 2 weeks. I went to the studio and presented my flier, and they said they couldn't honor it because it was no longer their special. I pointed out that there was no expiration date on the flier, so the check in girl let me do the class for free. She said she had emailed the owner and they will get back to me regarding the 2 weeks. This was a Monday. By Wednesday, I hadn't heard, so I looked up their info and reached out to the company. It's been over a week now and I still haven't heard from them. This is bad form for a business. - if you are going to put your contact information out there, you should have some way to attend to it. A simple email just to let me know they can't honor the coupon would be better than silence. As for the class itself - I tried Nia. It was fun and I love to dance, I just don't think it's for me (in terms of a workout). The class is only 55 minutes and much of that was warm up and cool down. I would have liked to try more classes and maybe incorporate Nia as a complement to my exercise repertoire. By itself, I would judge that it's not enough of a workout. Unfortunately, I didn't get to try any of their other classes... read more

I had been taking Pilates classes (Sharon rocks!) for a few months when I found out I was pregnant. I freaked out because I had just paid for a Frequent Flier pass which is an automatic monthly renewal for 6 months! I thought I was screwed and I would be paying for a workout that I wouldn't even use, but I was wrong! All it took was a simple email to the co-owner Kristie. She froze my account without question or pressure. I just emailed her this week to un-freeze the account and she was so awesome. She even asked if I wanted to apply the payment I already made to a different set of classes or stay with the Frequent Flier program. I am now back to taking Pilates three times a week and while it is kicking my post-baby butt...I need it and love it! Try getting that kind of support or attention at a big gym!! read more

I love that Nia is the kind of workout that truly fits every body. I am high-energy most days, really looking to sweat. Some days I come in tired and looking for a gentle energy boost. Nia does the trick. The teachers demo "levels 1, 2, and 3 of moves so that each participant can vary the workout according to his/her needs and abilities. It's a blend of dance, martial arts, and healing arts (think yoga). Teachers emphasize "freedom within the form", so everyone is moving in unique, yet unified, ways. Pretty cool, and very comforting if you're a newbie who is just catching on and doesn't want to stick out. I enjoy Nia so much that I signed up for the white belt intensive. Having just completed it, I love Nia even more! I highly recommend taking the intensive if you really want to learn about anatomy and apply it to movement in creative, practical ways. I also really like the other classes at the studio, particularly Belly-robics (belly-dance inspired cardio) and Zumba. The class pass will get you into these, Nia, Pilates, and Yoga, so you can mix it up easily. Teachers at the studio are all laid-back and friendly. The space is clean and I love the sprung wood floors (though it can be a bit tough on bare feet initially). The community as a whole is kind and enthusiastic about holistic health. Some classes have free child care available. Oh, and newbies get 2 weeks of free unlimited classes! read more

Last night I tried out the Zumba class with Karen at NiaMoves. This morning... I feel refreshed and energized! The class was great and the NiaMoves studio on Houston Ave. had a really positive vibe. Cool group of ladies, all ages and levels of Zumba ability. Can't wait to try it out again this Thursday! read more

Helen Terry Rocks!!! Nia Rocks!!! NiaMoves Rocks !!!! Get there and start moving. read more

I moved to Houston this summer, and during my internet search for dance studios, I feel so lucky to have come across Studio NiaMoves. I just finished my new client pass (two weeks free!), and I've already decided that NiaMoves will be one of my "home studios," even though it's not a dance academy. Over the last two weeks, I've taken 14 classes including Nia, yoga, Pilates, and Zumba (Karen defines her class as Z Belly Bolly). My instructors have been Kristie, Yvonne, Karen, Kym, Claudia, Cay, Sharon, Kay, Elisabeth, and Jody. I loved all of my classes. Every class included modifications depending on skill and flexibility, so everyone could always participate. In my opinion, if you don't feel like you got a good work-out, you didn't push yourself enough. I had never taken Nia. It seemed maybe too hippy and free-flowing for me at first, but I've found how it works for me. I grew up in dance and theatre, and I was trained to execute and "hit" every move. Nia challenges me to really let loose and do whatever happens in that moment. I get to focus more on my body and how it feels with every movement instead of what my body alignment looks like in the mirror and performing. I think it would be a fascinating contrast for dancers/performers/actors. I love how grounded the studio is. It's about each individual being "his/her best" instead of people trying to be "the best." It's a safe space, and I'm so comfortable there! Everyone is welcome, no matter what your age, shape, size, or skill level. I highly suggest buying one of the class packages to get the lower class rate ($10-13/class instead of $15 for a single class). It is a barefoot studio (or indoor-only dance shoes) with a sprung wood floor, so be prepared to kick off your shoes. Yes, even for Zumba! If you're looking for a studio with a variety of classes, a great environment, good pricing, welcoming instructors, and a good sweaty work-out, look no further. read more

I have always hated exercise... Until a good friend recommended NiaMoves. Right from the get go I felt welcome and comfortable. There are clients in NiaMoves classes of all shapes, sizes, ages, and physical capabilities. I started with a class with Helen on Saturday morning and I loved it. So high energy and fun, and I was able to get through the whole class even though I hadn't exercised in years. The great thing about NiaMoves is that there are varing levels to each move so the beginning student and the advanced student can get a great workout. Additionally, it's fun! I never thought I would say that about exercise. One thing I did was try several classes, times, and instructors. Over time I certainly found the ones I felt most comfortable in and I always recommend to new students that they try as many of the classes as they can to find what works for them. I still love Nia, but another one of my favorites is Hoop. It's one hour of hula hooping (with an adult size hoop) that works you out AND lets you feel the joys of being a kid again. I also enjoy the Zumba classes - great high energy workout! Honestly, this was such a great find. I highly recommend it! I am grateful for NiaMoves and I hope that if you try it you will be too. read more

NiaMoves is a fantastic studio! Looking for a fun place to be zen whilst rocking out? This is it! Nia helped me get fit and happy. read more

I absolutely love this studio! My favorite class is BUTI yoga taught by Megan. I felt welcomed right when I walk through the door for my first class and every class since then. Both Megan and Angela are such kind spirits. You will get in great shape here, meet friends and also have SO much fun!! I recently took a BUTI yoga workshop with Megan and that helped me understand the basics of BUTI yoga and then we had the MOST FUN class ever!! I also spent time with Angela and she is truly one of a kind as well. She's a very free spirit and literally had me dancing right off of my mat! I give Studio NiaMoves 5 stars for sure. read more

I took at BUTI yoga class with Megan Leamon that was the most fun yoga class ever! It included spiral movements, booty shakes and a tribal beat that made me feel like a goddess. Megan is knowledgeable, intuitive, encouraging and fun. You'll love the class!! read more

NiaMoves was a great space to host my Intro to Thai massage class. The back space was intimate and provided us amenities like a fridge and oven if we needed those. The floors were laminate and perfect for our class and the space was quiet and provided pillows and blankets needed for my students. I'll definitely rent here again and found the staff easy to work with. read more

A friend organized a group yoga class for another friend's birthday. It was a slow flow class. A bit too slow for my taste, but I did get a really nice stretch out of it. My back and hamstrings thanked me for it. The staff was super helpful and friendly. This might be a good place if you're looking for a low impact slower paced class. read more

Studio NiaMoves is one of my favorite movement studios in the world!!!! Beautiful atmosphere, professional business, knowledgeable and welcoming instructors, and a kind community of participants. If you have the chance to stop by this studio for a dance, I HIGHLY recommend doing so!!!! read more

LOVE NiaMoves! Great place that has all the mind/body movements that I love - Nia and Yoga. Nia allows you to dance! It is a low impact aerobic workout that is done barefoot:) The teachers are fun, and put thier personalities into the dance routines. Lots of happy movements, like wagging your tail, and being silly. NiaMoves feels like a community. All are welcome...come as you are...be yourself...have fun while moving. It works. I attended one of the extra classes last month - healing crystal bowls...lovely. read more

Love Nia! Love NiaMoves Studio!!! NiaMoves studio is very convenient for anyone in the central Houston area. I live in Garden Oaks and it takes me about 15 - 20 minutes to get to either studio. The huge variety of classes and workshops offered is amazing! I'm a Nia fan AND a fan of the 6 a.m. nia classes. Both Georgia and Laura make Nia fun and educational. In my opinion, there is not an exercise that exists that encompasses body, mind and spirit like Nia does. I highly recommend checking out a class - - PLUS the 1st 2 weeks are FREE for new students. You don't hear of many studios offering a great deal like that! Nia and NiaMoves Studio ROCK! read more

I am the first person to say that I never liked group exercise. The whole idea of working out in front of a mirror with lots of other people always felt so intimidating to me. It was like being in a high school gym class again- and being the uncordinated one who always finished last. So no one was more shocked than I was how much I LOVED Nia Moves. I started with the 2 week free class pass in desperation- I needed something new and couldn't get motivated. Dance-oriented exercise seemed like something that might be fun. I walked out that first day, and out of 7 more classes in the 2 weeks, feeling more alive and happy than I had in years. This is a great work out, but more than that, it's a happy place full of people who want to know you. The studio does a lot for the community- offering free childcare for one class a week, donating to local schools, doing kid classes and offering their space for community events. I am now a 3 year Nia veteran and have done Nia at studios across the country, and I can say that Nia Moves offers the complete package of a great workout and a great community. read more

This is a clean and friendly studio offering serval different dance/fitness classes. The Nia classes are perfect for me right now. I am recovering from a few injuries and not up for super intense workouts. The Nia classes are helping me to move my body and increase my range of motion and strength my core on my own terms. Each class is different and each teacher is different and each body is different so no two people have the some exact class. There are levels and you can go as hard or easy as you need. You are encouraged to find your own dance and to play and have fun. It lightens your mood, increases your breath, gets your heart rate up and encourages creativity. I love to dance and the routines are easy to pick up and the music inspires me to move. I haven't tried the other classes yet but I support this sweet little studio and all the friendly welcoming faces. read more

I am a NIA practitioner. I love attending classes at NIA Moves. If you haven't tried NIA I highly recommend it. NIA Moves offers such a variety of activities on all levels. There is a ministry here for people who want and need to move. It is a Mind, Body and Spirit connection. Come as you are fit or not. Young or Not. Male and Female A nonjudgmental atmosphere of community and encouragement! read more

I'm really not sure how to review NiaMoves. I kind of think it's really cool, but I also think it's really strange. The part of me that thinks the latter also thinks that I might really like it if I persisted with it for a few months, but I have other forms of exercise I like more at present, so that won't happen. Then again, if you have no idea what Nia is, then my of-two-minds review would be more helpful than a committed Nia-ist. Or whatever they're called. I like Bikram yoga, but I don't like paying out of the apex of my Downward Dog--in other words, my ass--for it, so I was looking for an alternative that would keep me from creaking like the bed springs at your friendly neighborhood motel. NiaMoves had a groupon and the part on the website about it being part yoga really stuck with me (somehow, the low-impact aerobic part didn't). Sold! The first class started with us all standing in a circle and the instructor talking about how she'd gotten to today's routine. Some classes have had the following elements: disco moves, pretending we're shaking off our anger and frustration, karate kicks, booty shakes, foot tapping, moving around the room in whichever direction we please, rolling around the room, and free-forming it by "expressing" ourselves through dance. I like rolling around on the floor and twirling around the room and calling forth my inner Martha Graham and expressing my stress/frustration/etc. through my movements. However, the dominant part of me, which likes using my feet to propel myself forward in a straight line (i.e. running) and really wishes my shoulder didn't suck so that I could take up boxing, thinks this is groovy, but very strange. NiaMoves has two studios: one on Pecore and one on Houston. Nia's done barefoot on the wood floor. The Pecore location is a barefoot studio. It's in an off-white building, which has a paper/canvas NiaMoves sign in red. It's pretty easy to pass by. It also has two bathrooms in the studio building. I did a Nightclub Cardio class at NiaMoves, which is similar to Nightclub Cardio, but easier in that the instructor will pause to explain moves between songs and go at a slower pace. I asked the instructor if Nightclub Cardio was doing another location, but she said that she'd had the training for Nightclub Cardio, and the NiaMoves studio owner asked her about teaching a class here. NiaMoves also has different workshops and belly dance, burlesque, African dance, and hoop dance classes, which are priced separately from the Nia, Zumba, Nighclub Cardio, Yoga, and Pilates classes. I think it's really a matter of personal preference. If you're tired of the typical fitness class and/or you want something low impact, you should try it out. The first class is free, and if you sign up within 30 days, you can get 30 days of unlimited yoga/Nia/pilates classes for $30. The instructors and students are very welcoming and seem to have a degree of familiarity with each other. Also, there's women of all shapes and ages, from the toned lululemon-ers to the overweight. The instructors demo levels 1 through 3, but the levels aren't a matter of technical skill; rather, it's a matter of fitness level with regards to the vigor and range of movement. I give this three stars, because four and five star places are places I'd go again. However, with the friendliness of the people and uniqueness of the workout, I seriously debated giving NiaMoves four stars. read more

I've been taking belly dance classes with Sahira with a couple of my friends for 8 weeks now and I LOVE it. Sahira is very thorough and she's great at explaining moves. She's very helpful and extremely FUN! Her beginner sessions come in packs of 4. Each class you learn something new (all 4) with the last one recapping the first 3 weeks and then putting everything together in an improv "showdown". The beginner classes does 5 month rotations with you learning a new move every week. After 5 months, the classes will repeat. I highly recommend taking belly dancing with Sahira at Niamoves, she's awesome :) read more

I temporarily needed something low impact that I could do for fitness (and fun) and signed up for the belly dance class. If this rating was just for the class and not the whole studio, I would give it 5 stars because the teacher is everything you want in a fitness instructor- knowledgeable, organized, enthusiastic, safety conscious, welcoming of all levels of ability. The studio is a very clean space with good sound and such a springy wooden floor to exercise on (my knees are thankful when I don't exercise on a concrete surface). I also thought that the woman who does sign in at the front desk is pretty on the ball too. It might have been fun to sign up for one of their hula hoop classes. My complaint with the whole studio is the spam email that they send to you for complete quackery- paying for seminars for things like past-life regressions, "cleanses" that basically involve cooking curry (don't get me wrong, cooking curry is awesome and a healthy diet contributes to your health, but if Indian spices alone could cure everything then rabies wouldn't have originated in India.) I feel a little uncomfortable supporting a studio that advances anti-science nonsense. read more

Attended a complimentary yoga class on Labor Day. I loved the space, music and the instructor. Will be attending more classes here. Has a great vibe and interesting class offerings. So glad I came read more

I have already reviewed Nia moves, but I recently started a new class, Zumba with Karen, and I gotta write about it! Karen is a really talented dancer, and she clearly really enjoys latin music. It is fun to just watch her! Fortunately, she is a really great teacher too, and despite my being born without a rhythm gene, and being a total beginner, she has managed to teach me some salsa, merengue, reggaeton, flamenco, you name it, she includes it. She even includes some bollywood just to "shake things up". I have bad knees, and she taught me ways to protect them and still move to the music!!! Its a great way to burn a ton of calories, and a heck of a lot of fun too! read more

After my first trial of Nia class with Helen, I love it and immediately signed up for their "New Clients 30 Classes in 30 Days for $30". I have been to Nia at least 5days per week ever since. The best thing is I don't have to be self-conscious about my body since the classes consists of all ages and body shapes. I like their instructor, especially Helen. She makes her class so fun, lively and full of energy. Kristie is wonderful too! I wish they will have the monthly unlimited classes with no commitment-renewable like Your Body Center. read more

I have been going to the Nia class for a few weeks now and I love this class it helps relief stress as well . Yvonne is great!

Star quality instructors here. I do the 6am Nia class a couple times a week and it is an awesome way to get my day started. I also love how the owner has built NiaMoves as part of The Heights community: there is always something outside of regular classes going on, from a Holiday Bizarre to free workshops and kids/family concerts. It's a. Open and inviting environment and a great addition to the neighborhood. They offer various different types of classes like Nia, Hoola hoop, belly dance, meditation, Melt, and great kids classes like music, yoga, and Nia for tots. Definitely check them out! read more

Loved this place to practice with joy and non-judgement!

NiaMoves is still the great studio it has always been. The new owner Angie is working hard with her staff and all of the NiaMoves teachers and community to keep the eclectic and holistic energy and is doing a beautiful job! This is one of the great studios. There is something for everyone. read more

Typically I limit my work outs to distance running and plyometric programs such as Insanity. Nia is far different than anything I have ever experienced but boy am I glad I found it. I would describe Nia as a mixture of dance, martial arts and cardio. I have added Nia to my weekly routine as well as a Pilates class offered at the studio. It is so awesome that Studio NiaMoves offers all sorts of fitness classes. Pilates, African Dance, Contact Improv, Belly Dancing and Hoop classes are the few I can remember off the top of my head but I know there are lots more. The studio is so inviting. Its not stuffy and filled with pretentious mirror hoggers like your typical gym. The staff is amazing. Co-owners Kristie and Helen are both super and their classes are fantastic. Studio NiaMoves is a true gem. I suggest everyone take advantage of their generous 30 classes for $30 in 30 days. You will be hard pressed to find a deal that great anywhere. read more

I've been working out in my apartment gym pretty steady for about a year now. However, in the last month I really hit a wall and got so bored with stationary bike. I signed up for 4 classes for 40 dollars. I really enjoyed it. It was low-impact, though so I think it's good to mix it up with more intense aerobics depending on your fitness goals. Since I'm a beginner I was worried I wouldn't catch on, but the instructors were very friendly and good teachers. I would recommend trying it out for anyone looking for variety. read more

Went to a contact improv class/jam here last night. Had a great time and would recommend it to anyone!

I am not a "regular" at Nia but always have a "package" I use when I need something different. It's an awesome FUN low-impact but HIGH reward workout. Such great energy - I always leave feeling refreshed! read more

I took advantage of the $20 for 4 classes also at the beginning of the year. I am so glad that I have found them. Not only do I love that I received my first class free but it is perfect that they are located in the Heights, 10 minutes from my home. Everyone there has been more than friendly. I love my work outs that I am getting there. Each time I can't wait till I get to my next workout. So it looks like I am sticking around for a while. I truly love this place. read more

I take beginning belly dance here on Wednesday nights. The instructor is very clear, helpful, and fun! This is my new favorite dance workout. I look forward to coming here every week. read more

I have been taking advantage of several Nia Moves classes for a few months now and I am very happy. Mima's Tuesday/Thursday a.m. pilates classes are terrific and I love how well she coordinates the exercises with the music. I don't think many instructors spend as much time on that as they should. For me, the free childcare for a few classes is key! I'm able to do pilates and Nia a few days a week while my little one has a ball in the next room. read more

I have been going to NiaMoves for about two years now. I love the Nia dance class- it's fun,never feels like exercise, and it has helped me to feel better about my body. I really love the whole concept. Both of the owners are fantastic. The teachers are great, and they offer a lot of variety in their classes. This morning, I took a MELT class with Kristie. She is such a fantastic instructor. She goes over everything very thoroughly, she is aware of all the students in her class, and is always helpful in suggesting an adjustment if needed. I was so surprised to get results from one class! I look forward to taking more MELT classes, and continuing this practice at home. I highly recommend MELT if are looking to relieve physical pain. The NiaMoves studio is really a special place and I'm so glad that it's in my neighborhood. read more

The classes here I would say are more geared towards spirituality and observing your body/space with a new perspective. That may be a good fit for some people but I personally prefer physically challenging classes. read more