I've taken jiujitsu and karate in the past so I'm not quite a beginner regarding self-defense. I joined the Wednesday mixed martial arts class through class pass. The hour flew by. Japheth, the instructor, did a good job of adjusting the class to the skill level and experience of all who attended that class. From the warm up to the end of the class we did not stay still except when watching what to do. I thought the moves we learned were very practical and practicing them were fun as usual. Parts of the class actually wore me out a bit which was a pleasant surprise. Didn't know how hard I was going to get worked. I liked the class so much I signed up for a 10-class bundle which was 50% off ($75!) because it was my first class. There's also a free private session which I'm excited to attend. I'm really glad I checked this place out! Can't wait to see what else I'm gonna learn! read more

Water and Rock Studio set up a private yoga class for me for a corporate retreat. Unlike most other studios I reached out to in Philadelphia, Water and Rock was extremely responsive and easy to work with. The instructor and the class were great and I would work with them again. read more

If it were an option, I would give zero stars. I contracted with Japheth to organize a Puppy Yoga class at my office park. The contract was for an hour-long class followed by 30 minutes to hang out with the dogs. There were 4 dogs (not puppies), one of them muzzled, and the yoga class barely lasted 45 minutes. Rock music was playing during class which was distracting, and the once muzzled dog bit a participant. The dog handler checked on the participant, but no other action was taken as far as an incident report or follow-up. When I emailed Japheth about my disappointment and the dog incident, he replied with a threatening email and took no responsibility for the horrible event he coordinated. read more

I did one of the puppy yoga classes today and was very disappointed. I was excepting lots of puppies who were playful and friendly and would interact with everyone. They were only 4 dogs there and 3 out of the 4 dogs were very shy and timid and just stuck by their owner most of the time. The site also made it sound like there would be dogs there available for adoption but there were none for adoption. I was very disappointed and it was not what I was excepting at all. I would not go again. I wish I could get my money back. read more

This is an update to my previous review. I had signed a 6 month contract. The yoga schedule was so limited that it turned out to be a complete waste of money for me. I kept paying even though I didn't go to any classes until the contract expired. Unfortunately after 6 months I didn't remember the small print of auto-renewal. The owners did not act in good faith as they gave a renewal notice of 14 days when it was too late to cancel instead 30 day notice to give a chance to cancel. This business tries to force people to pay for services they can't use and don't want instead of offering services that are useful. There are so many yoga studios with better options. Speaking of which, there is an awesome hot yoga studio in the same building. Excellent teachers, classes, and schedule. I wish I had gone there instead of wasting money and having to deal with this unpleasantness. read more

Summary: Not customer-service oriented, does not respond to email, call text, do not ever make a error booking with them because they do not care to fix it. --| While the experience and service provided was great, I have the unfortunate experience to work with their scheduling/owner, Japeth Brubaker. I accidentally booked the incorrect class (Purchased on 5/29 for 6/8 Yoga) I immediately emailed them (2 minutes after receiving confirmation in my email) asking to move the class to the correct class (6/9 Yoga). No response. I called twice to follow-up. No response. I went ahead and booked the other class (Purchased on 6/3 for 6/9 Yoga) to ensure I could attend with my friend. I continued to request some type of response on the matter. I *finally* received an email on 6/9 stating: we want to help please text or call for fastest response: ###-###-#### | Please note this is after after the yoga class I participated in. I responded and did not hear back til 6/11 and they texted through what happened to clarify. Then nothing. I followed up. Nothing. 6/18 - I received "Please see our refund policy and call if any questions." 1. Your website does not list a refund policy. Only the booking process (third party scheduling/payment site) indicates no refunds. 2. No one would respond to me even if I text, called, email. We are now 9 days after the yoga. 6/19 - The sent me a long text indicating that it was my fault for the error on the booking website. WHICH IT WAS. But I did everything in my power to adjust the booking to free up the space in advance. This is not a customer-oriented organization. I would suggest considering another option. read more

Stay away from Japheth who runs this business. He is threatening and unreasonable, slow to respond and offers no value once he has matched you with a trainer. I signed for 6 months and gave 2 weeks notice to let him know I would not be renewing at the end of the contract. He threatened to take me to court because I was contractually obligated to give 30 days notice that I was not going to auto renew for another 6 months. He offered to let me out of the contract if I payed over $900 to end our arrangement. I received numerous threatening, bullying and aggressive emails forcing me into a continued relationship for a further 6 months. He also falsely claimed I received a steep discount by signing for 6 mos at $312 per month for 8'sessions vs paying for packages of 10 classes at $390 per package. I can do rudimentary math and am able to figure out that both options are $39 per in home session. Part of his value proposition is to offer you free personalized nutritional counseling which for me consisted of 1x15 min convo where he advised me to eat more leafy greens and stay away from processed foods - hardly customized nor helpful. Japheth engages in sharp practice and I recommend you steer well clear of him and his business. read more

have continued my weekly sessions by zoom with my trainer since the studio was temporarily closed due to COVID-19. To my surprise, the sessions have been various and challenging. I'm so glad I continued training with Water and Rock. It works! read more

I've never written a bad review on a small business, or any business for that matter. Worst experience I've ever had with a business, and I was a client for 17 months. No major issues with quality of instruction, the reason for the poor review is the difficulty of ending the contract, even for a long standing client. Be very careful when signing up, there is no notification before the contract renews automatically. I was told that emails are sent to notify clients of renewal, which I never received, but after asking no less than 6 times, the studio was never able to produce one of those emails. I agree very much with the other 1-star review on here, Japheth does not take no for an answer. I tried to stop sessions twice, and the entire next session was spent selling me more sessions. I thought this was obvious to both Japheth and I, thought he might offer me a free session in exchange and also as a thank you for continuing to be a client, but no. This past October I finally decided it was time to stop. Once again, I was told I was "under contract", again this is after no notice of renewal, and also after spending around $2000 at this studio. I refused to pay the last $150, and have now been turned into a collection agency (another first for me) over $150! In 17 months I was not able to reach my goal (not the studio's fault) but only 2 months after buying the book "Clean Eating" by James Duigan, available on Amazon and most book stores, I've reached my goal. Upon starting training sessions with Japheth, I told him I tend to drink wine most nights. He said this was fine (which I thought was odd) as long as I didn't have beer or spirits. I ran this by a few other trainers and health professionals, they did not agree. Well I should have listened to them. I stopped drinking wine and have since lost 12 pounds! Buy the book Clean Eating, save your money, and avoid this studio and their very arrogant business practices. read more

I don't typically write reviews but unfortunately I waited until after I had issues to check the reviews for this studio. Had I checked, I would have seen that many of the other reviewers also had billing issues or felt they were taken advantage of by being given a confusing contract that seems to contradict itself. I didn't like the trainers, which is fine, personal preference, but cancelling my contract has proven to be the real heavy lifting. Japeth keeps reminding me that he's been on tv and has five star reviews and has trained people in the "emergency room" (?) but frankly none of that matters when I'm just trying to cancel and can't seem to do so. You will gain a lot more customers through a friendly experience than you will with just trying to nickel and dime people. Truly a disappointing experience all around. read more

Loved loved LOVED goat yoga! Can't think of a better way to spend a Sunday morning...a beautiful Bucks County farm, yoga and GOATS!! My daughter and I went last summer and it was a highlight of the season. My daughter and her friend went today and said it was incredible. I would highly recommend this and I'm sure you will enjoy this as much as we did. All levels of yoga experience, and plenty of time to enjoy being surrounded by the sweetest, cutest goats. We will definately be back!! Thanks so much read more

Suzanne's private yoga sessions involved discussing what exactly I was looking for and since beginning them I'm so happy to see myself improving and able to maintain more focus during class and more mindfulness all day--love the opportunity to ask for advice specific to my practice. Tuesday and Thursday evening yoga classes help me appreciate the daily chaos. Knowing I've set aside those times for myself and my practice have really lent to a more peaceful mind-set...also must mention I've been falling asleep so much more easily (even on nights when I don't have class!) Japheth and Suzanne are great instructors, especially in how much variety and personal attention their studio provides. I've tried a handful of others but the positive attitude and lack of pretension will keep me at Water and Rock:) read more

I started taking yoga classes at Water and Rock when I first moved to Chestnut Hill about a year ago and it's been an amazing experience! Japheth and Suzanne are very skilled yoga and fitness instructors who really bring a sense of community to the practice. I always feel welcome and right at home in the studio. They focus on a holistic approach to wellness and offer health tips in class which I really love and appreciate. The small classes offer such a personalized experience. I had done yoga for years at home and in large classes before this, but the individualized instruction and adjustment from Suzanne and Japheth really allowed me to deepen my practice and understanding of yoga poses. They encourage students to always leave their troubles and worries of the day at the door and just focus on being centered. I always look forward to days when I can go to yoga after work and forget my daily stresses. Awesome studio all around! read more

3 Yoga lessons for this place were given to me as a birthday gift from my son to motivate and inspire me to get involved with yoga. The instructor Japheth was the worst yoga instructor I ever met. He did not coach, talk, explain, nor encourage me during the lessons. I attended two sessions which were a major waste of time, and he made me forfeit the last gifted session due to a scheduling problem. The only real communication from him was to try to get me to sign up for a package of sessions, and more lessons. I do not understand everything about Yoga, but the message from this studio is "money first, income is our priority!" read more

The owner of this gym, Japheth, claims to dedicate his life to helping people...however his sales pitch is more like a used car salesman. My mom signed up for private training sessions and after less than a month of working with two trainers, both of which she told Japheth she didn't not like, she decided to cancel. It is true, she signed a 6 month contract but after four sessions, a total of two weeks, she has not continued and he has continued to charge her credit card for the entire 6 months. She was charged thus far for 41 of the 48 weeks. She never received a single invoice for any of the 24 individual charges of $121. You'd think that a business would come to an agreement with someone, contract or not, and not make them pay such an insane amount of money for 2 weeks!! Clearly the gym is not doing so well if he needs to swindle a 70 year old woman. On top of that, we asked if the sessions could be transferred to his daughter but got no answer. This is not how a good business who cares about people operates! read more

My children and I have been taking private self defense lessons here and couldn't be happier. Japheth is responsive and has been great with allowing us to reschedule lessons around vacations or other conflicts. The studio is small but clean and modern and our instructor is wonderful. read more

My dissatisfaction with Water and Rock Studio is contained in the entry below. I first went to Water and Rock Studio for a Free One hour Consultation / Strength training class on August 18th, 2015. After a battery of questions about my diet, health, and overall well being, we began an exercise routine of four movements. Upon conclusion, the proprietor, Mr. Japheth Brubaker asked about my interest in private classes, and explained cost. I purchased a ten pack of half-hour classes at $65.00 for a total of $650.00 on a credit card. After my first and second classes I felt as if there would be no end to the questions about health and diet. Mr Brubaker rarely stepped away from his Laptop where he was entering the data, and stated on three occasions that I might have Lyme disease, that I should see a world renowned doctor in Washington, D.C. I have this in an email. To my knowledge Mr. Brubaker is not an expert in Lyme disease, not a Doctor, nor a Nutritionist. Upon entering the studio for my third and final visit I told Mr. Brubaker that I was dissatisfied, the classes weren't working for me. I wasn't interested in continuing classes and wanted a refund. He would not answer me to my face about the refund, but continually asked what was wrong, "where is this coming from," as if I had insulted him. It seemed that the mere fact that someone was dissatisfied with his program was somehow demeaning and he was unable to here no for an answer. I left after explaining that he could keep the money for this third visit, which was only a conversation and not a class. On the following day, I sent an email requesting a refund for seven classes, not taken. His reply was, "there is no refund because I purchased discounted classes," and if I want my money back I should return and take the classes. I have this in an email. I saw no printed materials, was not told about a no refund policy, nor was I or my wife able to find anything on Earth and Rock Studio's web-site about the no refund policy for discounted classes. There was no contract to sign. In conclusion, Mr. Brubaker needs to learn that people are sometimes unhappy &/or dissatisfied, and by offering a refund he will gain more business by doing so. Mr. Brubaker might learn a valuable lesson from me, a dissatisfied customer, because I can never perform positive feedback for his benefit. Refunds provide great customer service, and show the general public that you are truly working on their behalf. I cannot, nor will not refer anyone to Mr. Brubaker. read more

I have had a great experience with Japheth at Water and Rock Studio and highly recommend them. They are worth your time and money, but be forewarned as a side effect you will probably become too small for your wardrobe and need to invest in some new clothes! ;-) I am totally serious, I dropped some weight and a couple inches off my waist and just bought my first sleeveless workout shirt in 30 years since, all while getting stronger. Prior to Water and Rock Studio, I was an avid bicyclist, runner, and amateur sports car racer, but suffered a major injury while cycling that required an extended period of inactivity and rehabilitation. I also had a pretty weak core and not much upper body strength. Following physical therapy / rehab for a shattered clavicle (now plated & screwed back together), I wanted to increase core and upper body strength, build endurance, increase flexibility, and learn a bit of yoga. After an initial meeting, we also identified a need to reduce my stress level and take steps improve my nutrition. My regular one on one sessions tend to check in on personal health, stress levels, and nutrition, and then engage in a wide variety of functional fitness work. It is always changing, so you never get bored or find it repetitive. This can't be understated, as I hated trying to go to a traditional gym and using whatever machines were available - that never worked for me. I have also attended a few of their group sessions, especially the free ones on Saturdays, and find them good as well - to round out my activity each week. They also work with an informal local network of other health & wellness professionals, which is nice. And they have periodic special events that are interesting. Reflecting back on the last six months of working with Water and Rock studio, I have to say I have been highly impressed with the result, and it has been worth every penny spent and every minute invested personally. That said, the results depend on **your** commitment and willingness to try new things and focus on fitness and nutrition every week between your sessions. Although I was often skeptical of some of the dietary and health recommendations for example, I have tried each one just to see and saw some surprising results that have motivated me to keep up with the changes (nothing like positive reinforcement!). I am now stronger and in better condition that before my injury, my nutrition has improved, my health has improved (for example - my cholesterol was high before hand and is now substantially lower and in the normal range again), I have learned and regularly practice yoga, and my stress level has dramatically diminished. I have not felt this good in many years, and friends, family, and co-workers have all noticed. I highly recommend Japheth and Water and Rock Studio - give them a try and see what you think! UPDATE - Dec 2016: I'm 2 years in with Water and Rock and have lost 5 inches off my waist, 7 pounds, and reduced body fat by 1/3. Feeling great overall! read more

Japheth and Suzanne are the industry's best! I have been training with Water and Rock Studio for four years and learn something new each session with Japheth. Whether obtaining new certifications, taking classes, or attending seminars, Japheth is always on the cutting edge, giving his clients the competitive advantage. And, the prices are fairly and competitively priced. I would highly recommend Water and Rock Studio to any person looking to take another step towards their optimal health/ healthy lifestyle! read more

I started working out at Water and Rock Studio at the free community workout sessions on Saturdays. I was having a great time and wanted to do some additional work, so I inquired about learning yoga in order to better deal with work-related stress. The total package that I have received from working with Japheth is above and beyond my expectations. In addition to yoga Japheth has incorporated functional fitness, nutrition guidance, and general lifestyle coaching that has not only improved my physical performance but has had a noticeable positive impact on my job performance. I feel significantly less stressed and am in the best physical shape I have ever been. read more

The single star is for my instructor who was actually really good (she has since left) but the business methods of her employer are obnoxious. The "free evaluation" he offers is nothing but a sales pitch to get you to sign a contract and if you do so he will hound you if you try to end it early. When I could no longer make classes I gave a month's notice and paid for 6 weeks of classes that I couldn't take in order to get out of my contract and he is still after the final month's payment and has sent the bill to a credit collections agency! I have never in my entire life been spoken to or rather, yelled at and interrupted in the manner that Japheth did and I would advise anyone considering this company to run don't walk away! read more

I have never written a poor review before (or for that matter any reviews at all). I am in complete agreement with the other 1 star reviews. After one fullly paid session (6 months), we inquired of Japbeth the timing of the renewal. He waited to respond until after the 'renewal date' stating that we were automatically renewed for many months 'as per contract'. We disputed these charges with the credit card company after non-response/poor response from Japbeth. He has now threatened legal action and 'collection agencies'. Please beware of this merchant. read more

I'm so disappointed to have to agree with the negative reviews. The actual instruction of fitness classes wasn't terrible, but the owner, Japheth, made it such an unpleasant experience. It's extremely clear that he's very monetarily driven. His pushiness was borderline scary. I met for two one-on-one personal training sessions with Japheth. The second time we met he didn't remember that we had met before. The sessions were very similar, discussing my eating/sleeping/fitness habits and Japheth instructing me to make changes that and take certain supplements. He said that he was pretty certain I had Lyme disease, which was an inappropriate thing for someone with no medical accreditation to say. I also definitely did not have Lyme disease. My worst experience with Japheth was trying to cancel my contract. He had been pushy in the past (when I brought my mom to the studio for a yoga class he hounded her about joining afterward, through text, even though she lives out of the state) but I didn't expect this complete lack of respect. I emailed him staying that I wanted to cancel my contract because I wasn't able to make it to the one class a day they are holding right now. He emailed me back saying that his records show that I'd attended at that time in the past and asked if my schedule had changed. It took another four emails back and forth with him after that to get him to accept my cancellation. This was a few days ago. Yesterday I got an email saying that my automatic payment had been processed for Water and Rock studio. When I asked Japheth about this he stated that per my contract I would still be billed for the next two months. I understand that he has a family and needs to make money, but I find it worrisome that he's willing to take my money ($120) this month and next month with nothing in return. There's nothing I can do about it. He set a trap and I fell for it. read more

Water & Rock is an intimate exercise studio in the Chestnut Hill section of the city offering individual/group workouts, yoga, and beginners martial arts classes. I have been taking martial arts for about 1.5 years, and the classes typically have 3-5 persons, allowing a lot of personal attention. The style ranges from boxing to JiuJitsu and Krav Maga, so there is plenty of variation. The classes are geared toward beginners, and are safe and doable by those of all fitness levels. I am 48, but there are high school students as well, and a number of women. The studio is rather small, and would not be ideal for an expert martial artist who would want to try out for MMA; but for a casual student of martial arts its perfect. Martial arts is a fun workout. read more

I was hesitant at first to try virtual training sessions. But since I used to train with Japheth, I decided to give it a go. And wow am I really glad that I did! The great thing about virtual sessions is that they are about so much more than just what/when/how to workout. We talk about everything from diet and nutrition to sleep to injury management and other health and well-being topics. Japheth has basically become my whole-health and lifestyle coach vs. just your everyday run-of-the-mill trainer. Sure, I value the intense workouts he gives me every week. Most importantly, though, I feel like I finally have someone to hold me accountable on so many different levels, 1) so that I don't fall of the wagon, and 2) so that I have a much better chance of staying jn shape/reaching my goals. Thank you, J! read more

Japheth is a fantastic trainer with a wealth of knowledge to give! Each session, whether a 1 on 1 or small group, builds on the last session and I always leave with new knowledge/skills. I highly recommend Water and Rock Studio for anyone looking to take their health/fitness to the next level! read more

I have a disability, weakness on my right-side, up and down my body. I love yoga, but the balance stuff can be scary. And I never get the full benefit of the arm extensions because I always have to hold on to something to maintain my balance. Suzanne changed all that! She comes over to hold me steady so I can really stretch. I've never felt so safe in yoga before - ever! I can't wait for Thursday's now! I'm so excited to keep going back! read more

I enjoyed my sessions. Had to end them b/c of work schedule but may pick up in the future. Also hope I remember most of the techniques IF I had too. (hopefully I won't) read more

Water and Rock Studio located in the Chestnut Hill area of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a wonderful place for anyone looking to get in shape or just try something fun. This studio offers both private and group sessions with affordable pricing. There are also free community sessions occasionally. Japheth is an awesome trainer with plenty of knowledge that he is willing to share. There are yoga, fitness, and martial arts classes that are offered. There are also a plethora of other topics that are discussed. Japheth also is prompt in responding to calls, emails and any questions that anyone may have. I definitely recommend Water and Rock Studios to anyone looking for a comfortable environment to work out. There are also sessions for kids as well. read more

Since I have been working with Japheth I have improved my health status- measurably! With his informed and sensitive guidance I have taken my nutrition into my own hands and discovered strength and endurance I didn't think possible. I began at a very low point dealing with the loss of a loved one. The work I do at Water and Rock has helped my incorporate that experience into a dedicated program of self care. read more

As a future Division 1 athlete, I have tried a variety of different trainers and gyms. Water and Rock is hands down the best I could ever dream of. The off season is a critical time for me, and without fail over my two years here I have seen tremendous improvement in not only my playing but also my overall lifestyle. My sessions are always the best part of my day, and I have become so much more centered, confident, healthy, and happy. The trainers are so incredibly caring and qualified, and the personalized attention is unmatched to any other gym I have been at. They make sure you get the results you want and deserve, all while keeping things fun and encouraging. I have pushed and exceeded limits I didn't even know I was capable of, but I still enjoy working out as much as I did in the beginning; at Water and Rock it never feels like a chore. Above all this, Japheth and his staff are simply good people with good hearts who don't look at you as a client or investment; they truly want the best for you physically AND mentally. Truly it has changed my life as an athlete and person!! Water and Rock is the perfect fit for any level of fitness. You truly cannot go wrong at this studio! read more