What's that saying? "People say you don't know what you've got until it's gone."…read more Truth is, I knew what I had, I just never thought I'd lose it! After having traveled so much for the last few months, I was fortunate enough to come back just in time for their 4th open house. From 7am-12pm, it was a day of "free yoga, food and fun!" And honestly, what's better than practicing some hot yoga with one of the best yoga communities around?! Sure, I mean you might be profusely sweating on one another, but hey - who cares! It's not often that you get to practice with about 50 yogis! Open house aside, there really isn't anything close to what The Yoga Shop has, or is. The community, the hot yoga, the instructors - I can genuinely say that after having a year of experimenting and exploring other yoga studios in the Greater Hartford area, The Yoga Shop has it. Packages are moderately priced, your first class is always free, student/military discounts, and a $15 walk-in? It's certainly fair to say that TYS is agreeably priced. The only gripe I have is that it's a bit far to get to. During the after-work rush hour, it can easily take up to 15 minutes just to get to the studio from the off-ramp. So leave yourself a good 30 minutes just to get there and be comfortably situated. Whether you're looking for a heated, athletic and fast-paced yoga class or getting into yoga for the first time, TYS has something for everyone!

My yoga background / qualifications for this review: I have…read morebeen practicing yoga with increasing intensity for the past 2 years, close to completing my teacher training at SRY and just started teaching my own class at Central Rock. I have attended classes at 7-8 studios in the greater Hartford area, double that number including studios outside of CT. My proclivity is towards vigorous power classes aimed at intermediate students (on my scale "advanced" is contortionist level). The shop is not only the best yoga experience I've ever had, it's also the best establishment I've ever engaged with outside of my own parents business. It's so tempting to write a novel about how much I love this place but instead I'll just say that after moving from Indiana to Connecticut 3.5 years ago, the shop is the only place that makes me feel home again. Pros -the community / immediate sense of inclusion (opposed to the big-box WHY vibe) -Annie: business owner, instructor, life coach, role model -teaching style - all shop instructors have been taught in the signature "livefree power" styling -wide variety of classes -convenient class times -HEAT, hard to find non-bikram hot power classes -free first class to try -classes NEVER expire, I've never seen this at a studio before -classes are also transferable to friends -value, buying class cards during open house promotions ~$10 / class, very inexpensive for the area -constantly updated, modern, high BPM music, high quality sound system -beautiful space / ambiance -free cookies & tea everyday :) -Wednesday night power is just the best class ever -108 sun sals monthly Cons -location (coming from Bloomfield / weha) -I can understand from a beginner's perspective the community could be perceived as intimidating, as many students are life long practitioners -studio can be hard to spot, in an industrial mall -space does fill up (personally I've found this to also be a "pro" as it's a lot of fun to be in it together, but some may feel uncomfortable) -no showers :( -lobby / cubby space can be congested after popular classes

Attended the intro yoga class and it was so peaceful. Everyone was very welcoming and kind. At $40…read moreunlimited for the month I will definitely be back. Come take a class, you won't regret it.

With a wide array of classes (Gentle, Beginner's, Moderate, Vigorous, Lunch Hour, and even Zumba)…read moreSamadhi Yoga Studio has a class for nearly everyone regardless of your level of practice. Although Samadhi's is some distance from the closest highway exit, it's easy to get to and is located in a spacious plaza with plenty of parking. Personally I prefer heated and very hot yoga. Though I find them fun and engaging, the only classes that provide that type of heat are the "vigorous" classes. All other classes are room temperature, so dress accordingly. Honestly, consider taking as many classes as you can. Find what challenges you. For first-timers and/or beginners, FRET not! There are a number of classes catered to your needs. Even though there are two separate bathrooms, there is no changing area for men or women. This can be annoying if you're coming straight from work. Also, there aren't any showers. So depending on how sweaty you get, keep that in mind if you are looking to attend their 545 or 6am classes before work. Otherwise, the staff and instructors are very pleasant and accommodating. Oh! They always seem to offer a Groupon to first-time students for a month of unlimited yoga classes for $40 (normally $115 value) so take a look into that if you haven't already.

I recently tried a class at Hartford Sweat and it was such a great experience. The instructor…read morecreated a really relaxed atmosphere, so even as a beginner I didn't feel out of place. The class was a good mix of stretching and light challenge, and I left feeling refreshed instead of exhausted. Everyone there was super welcoming which made it even better.

This review is only about the "Gentle Yoga" classes at Hartford Sweat (because that is the only…read moreclass I've tried). These classes are the highlight of my week. I'm sure the class is supposed to be for people needing a good stretch for tired muscles but I use it as a 'self care' relaxation class. When I leave, I feel refreshed and ready to take on the rest of the week. The best part of the class is that Kristin (the usual instructor) starts every class by saying that if you just want to lay on the floor or stay in child's pose for the entire hour you can - and she means it. This truly is a no-judgement class where you can do as much or as little as you want based on what your body (or mind) is telling you to do. I can't say enough great things about the class - definitely give it a try.

Ok so coming from the Worcester Area, I was fortunate to find this GEM !!!!…read more I will never seek another Yoga place, its become like a home away from home and both the instructor Melissa and my fellow classmates in the practice are amazing and make you feel welcome. Melissa is very knowledgeable in her Yoga practice and with a class that is so big at times, Im amazed how she always manages to make sure you are taken care of as well as your specific needs are addressed when you arrive at practice. Namaste!!!!!

Stay away!! STAY AWAY!! I miss read their website and went…read morein for prenatal yoga. I was told to come in using the side door so I entered. I thought I'd enter into a receptionist area (like most places) so I was ending a very important phone call PLUS I believed I was early. NOPE, I entered right into the yoga room full of women, the instructor yelled at me to get off the phone. Which I did, obviously. Instructor got up to grab the paperwork for me, I apologized for being late because I misunderstood their class schedule. She then very rudely and loudly asked me if I was pregnant, I answered, yes, isn't this prenatal yoga?? She responded, no, I'm going to have to ask you to leave... while the women in the class giggled at me. I'm happy to admit that I made a mistake BUT there was no reason to make me feel ashamed for being pregnant and to insult me. She could simply have told me to not enter whole class is in session. They could have locked the door, there could have been a sign. ANYTHING would have been better!!

I have been taking beginners' yoga classes at The Revival Room for almost two months. I can…read morehonestly say that this is making a huge difference in my life. I can't say enough about Kim and her staff. They are phenomenal teachers and human beings. They care passionately about what they do, and it spreads to those of us who are lucky enough to work with them. The studio is clean and serene, and each session has a different flair. I love the small classes and the patient guidance. If you're considering starting your yoga journey, this is the place to do it. I felt welcomed from day 1.

From the owner: The Revival Room is a Fitness and Yoga studio specializing in weight loss, strength and…read moreconditioning, as well as Reiki and guided meditations. We specialize in guidance from experienced certified trainers on a variety of equipment who can assist you in reaching your goals. The studio offers a variety of classes and training options for all stages and ages 13+, in a personal and unique atmosphere. Come visit us in scenic Ellington Connecticut and revive your health and wellness!

My mom invited me to go to a sound meditation with her one day. I had no idea what that meant and…read morewas unsure of what to expect(I wasn't big into meditation). My first experience was eye opening! The musicians played the instruments so beautifully as I escaped into my own state of meditation. It was absolutely incredible. I live an hour away and will forever continue to come here. Each musician makes it a new experience. The staff is incredible and so welcoming. I preach these sound meditations to my friends (some of which have joined me!). My meditation practices have expanded and my life has been a lot more peaceful because of it. I promise- it's an experience you will cherish!

I was on vacation with a friend who suggested I participate in a sound bath. She quickly did some…read moregoogle research and found The Conduit Center. A week later, I was climbing the stairs to their second floor studio to participate in their Sound Meditation Concert. And I am so happy I did. I honestly did not know what to expect. We were greeted by one of the musicians (who very well may be the owner) who was friendly, knowledgeable and guided us to our "nest." We were 15 minutes earlier and there were already 10 or so people "ready" for the concert. This readiness meant laying on your mat, putting a few blankets over you, placing your head on the foam pillow and adorning your eye mask. It was terribly comfortable - I am surprised I didn't fall asleep. While I will admit I did get antsy at times over the next 75 minutes, the gongs, rattles and singing bowls were awesome. The two musicians were in sync and it was a wonderful evening. The one down side was the man snoring two nests over, but I was able to tune him out (at times). Looking forward to going back!!

Best class ever! Visited from San Diego and definitely got a work out in. Instructors are amazing…read moreand music definitely gets you going!!!

Synergy is an outside of the box "gym". After working out with weights and cardio i needed a…read moredifferent type of physical challenge. Each class is unique and challenging. You are mentally challenged as much as physically. You are pushed to overcome both physical and the fear of not being able to do something. Yoga and R. O. P. A. Class is the best, they have increased my confidence, strength and ability to just go for it. Synergy also has an amazing group of massage therapists.

They owner is never on time, classes are not extend to make up the difference…read more Never any guidance on proper form or help with modifications. The fitness classes are always the same nothing new. She should put some effort in her fitness classes as she does her dance which is her background. That is one area that she excels in. The place is not clean

Its exactly a month I have been going to workout here and wow!! thats one of the best decision I…read morehave taken. The workouts are amazing, we sweat, burn the calories and above all Erica and Laurie make them super fun and enjoyable. I cannot believe I am sayIng this- when the discussion is about a work out , I look forward to going to the class. My Saturday's and Sunday's - usually be like just be in bed, lazy and food but after I joined these classes, I wake up , work out and you feel good about yourself. I have so much energy for the whole day. It hasn't only improved my physical activity but I have become conscious about my eating habits as well. Erica is so welcoming and always makes you feel included and the best part is I made so many friends and you feel like a part of family. Thank you Erica and Laurie. You guys are really amazing . PS- my daughter joins me for Zumba classes every Wednesday and its the best. She loves it