Yoga Shelter Birmingham

I have been practicing yoga here for several years and I love the place. The teachers are fantastic and all incredibly positive, real and nurturing. I take mostly the Yoga Rocks (I think they just changed the name to Vinyasa) and it’s a great workout. I have to admit at first it was difficult to remember the flows (I used to do Bikram and you would never flow on your own) but now I love the variety and challenge that each class offers me. I go either in the mornings or evenings and depending on the time of year, it’s either slammed with mats side by side (NY resolutions people) or it’s nicely spaced with maybe 10 – 15 people. Arrive early and you won’t have a problem finding a spot in the room. Highly recommended! Namaste.

I recently became really into yoga while at college. I came home for the summer and needed to find a reasonable, student price for me to practice at. I’ve been to different yoga shelters around the bham area before, and after coming to yoga shelter years ago, I decided to stop in and buy the 10 classes for $ 10, just to see if I’d like it. I think thats only for new members, and they told me I hadn’t been here before, so i was able to get that deal.
I loved it so much, that I bought the 3 month, summer student special for $ 144. Figuring that I would go at least 4 times a week, it was well worth it. I went to yoga at least 5 times a week at the beginning (this was when I didn’t have a job). The front desk ladies are always so nice and welcoming. The studio has a shower, 2 bathrooms, and cubbies to put your things. Classes all start right on time, so I recommend finding a spot on your mat 5 minutes or more before class starts as they do fill up! morning classes are really good because not many people are there, and you aren’t crammed. Saturday mornings are insane! I just went to a 5pm class on a monday night, and it was a little crowded as well. Only problem with this studio is the parking, i suggest parking in the streets a couple blocks away or the structures with 2 hours of free parking.
Now, these yoga classes are not a walk in the park. Even the slow flow classes are hard. Great workout, hot yoga is a must! Ive felt stronger and I have lost inches all over my body, and I definitely got more toned because of it.
Teachers you must try:
Bryan, Nicole C., Soojin, Brittney, and Barbi. —- they are all tough and you WILL SWEAT.

I’ll start this review by saying I’ve been to the two other hot yoga places in Birmingham and this by far was the best experience I’ve had and I will be back!
I was able to buy a groupon for 10 classes for $ 40, cannot beat that! Regular pricing didn’t seem to steep either.
So far, I’ve practiced twice, once with Tim Paul and once with Missy Oleshansky, both for Yoga Rocks 60 and 90 minutes, respectively. The class with Tim was 60 minutes on Friday at 6am and there were about 10 others in the studio. When I first arrived, Tim greeted my warmly and went through all of the new student information, took my groupon, and gave me quick tour of the facilities and went over the basic format of Yoga Rocks. This is a great example of a passionate yogi who actually welcomes you to a new space! Very impressed. Onto the class… When I hear «Yoga Rocks» I was a little worried that top 40 would be blasting beyond the power to think but this class is very energizing in a positive way. First, Tim was a great instructor, invites intention and meaning into the practice, and sets-​up the time very well. Second, the music was kept so that during his set-​up of each flow you could actually hear him and then when the on-​you-​own flow time came, he would kick it up to a medium volume. I’m not the best at recalling music but it was a great variety and Zeppelin’s Misty Mountain Hop was a stand out. In terms of class content, I found it to be the right amount of challenging with plenty of options for increasing or decreasing difficulty. There was time for upside down, if it was in your practice, in addition to core work.
For Missy’s class, there were definitely more people for the Sunday morning session but when I found a spot in the back both yogis were nice enough to more their mats over and make a spot. I will admit they both looked pretty «serious», and judging by their headstands I’d say it’s probably true, but regardless, moving mats is a nice way to say «welcome»! The 90 minute class was similar in format to the 60 minutes but with additional core work, which I found very challenging! Missy definitely knows her stuff and was giving adjustments and correcting form. Additionally, her flows were hard and we had lots of one legged chaturangas and some side crows.
I noticed a few other reviews commenting on the other clientele there in terms of being in the lulu, be seen, will snub you crowd, and I didn’t have any issues with this. I did go over memorial day weekend, so maybe they were all out of town? Not sure, but I feel like I’m usually very aware of those issues and would say to give this place a try and see for yourself!

I bought a deal for 20 classes here. It is a nice studio and the instructors are well trained. I liked some better than others but in general I didn’t really like the style of yoga taught. It felt more like a club than a yoga studio at times. Some of the classes wrote packed and the mats were literally overlapping. Worth it because of the deal but I don’t think I would make this my regular studio.

I was told the yoga studios in Birmingham are its own beast, a bit more hardcore and is similar to yoga classes that you might find at the gym. Here’s why…
They have 5 different types of classes:
1. Yoga Rocks — their hardest standard hot vinyasa class
2. Xflowsion — yoga mixed with martial arts
3. Slow Flow — standard vinyasa
4. Yin — restorative
The Birmingham location has one big practice room. They do not provide props, so bring your own blankets and blocks if you need them.
There are cubbies for your personal belongings next to the changing rooms. They also have a shower and a very clean bathroom.
I took the yoga rocks morning class. It was a hot one hour vinyasa class. The teacher would teach us a sequence, then she would give us time to do it ourselves without instructions for 2 –3 rounds. She also played loud, pop, electronic, rock music to complement our workout. I thought it was a great class; I got to sweat it off and was energized after class.
I can see how this would be hard for new yogis as remembering a sequence is not easy to do. The teacher didn’t make adjustments, but I did noticed she helped the girl next to me since her posture was really bad. Other than that, we were really on our own. But, yoga rocks is their hardest class, so if you are not a seasoned yogi, you probably shouldn’t take this class anyways. I was very happy with the class here and I will definitely be back. I can’t wait to try the yoga/​martial arts class.
Free parking in the office building structure or there are ample street meter parking.
They also have multiple locations in MI and one in Studio City, CA.
New students: one free week of classes

I have been to a number of classes at Yoga Shelter and I find them to be consistently challenging. I’ve been practicing for a while and am comfortable enough with the minimalist approach to instruction that some teachers have. There are some teachers who are better for new students than others and offer more feedback/​guidance, by the way. It’s unfortunate that this place is so far away for me because I really do love the classes here! :(

All it took was one class at the Yoga Shelter to completely throw out all my typical ideas of what a yoga class was. Instead of a little stretching mixed with spa music and chanting, I got the most amazing workout with a mix of cardio, strength, and stretching, with awesome music, and a fun teacher that really motivated me. It didn’t take long to trade in my gym membership for a Shelter membership, and its so fun to see the results week by week. For the first time ever I’ve found a workout that I look forward to, can honestly say that I’m sad to miss it. I love the teacher’s, they give just the right amount of inspiration through class to really push you, and stick with you, without going overboard. And I love that with a monthly membership you can attend several locations, not limited to one studio. Everyone has different preferences for their yoga practice, but the classes at Yoga Shelter really are so different and so great, I really recommend you check them out!

Good times. Upbeat. Allows you to do your own thing, what you need. Can be a great experience. Downside… very few teachers pay attention to alignment details. A tad on the corporate side.

There are yoga studios and then there is Yoga Shelter. I’ve visited many other studios in the area, and Shelter is IT. Every instructor is great, each had a different focus which makes my practice there feel well-​rounded! Whether it be the wonderful stories, the challenging postures, or the choice of music. Each class has personality, and I leave with an enlightened mind and spirit, not to mention the physical challenge that is so rewarding at the end! New students get to try a week for free, take advantage of it! You will be hooked! You really feel like part of a community with the friendly staff.

Decided to give this studio a try and I wasn’t pleased. I don’t like that they keep the front door locked until a couple minutes before class begins. I like a good 10 – 15 minutes to change and prep b4 class. Yoga isn’t something mentally to rush into in 5 minutes. The music was a bit too hip-​hop for yoga. I can appreciate that music style, but I don’t think it’s appropriate for yoga.

Let me start this by getting this out of the way… I love Yoga Shelter. I’ve been attending classes at the WB and RO locations for over a year and half now. I have seen considerable differences, mentally and physically. Looking for a Yoga Shelter groupie? You have one right here!
With that being said, the Birmingham location leaves much to be desired. First, the good: The studio space is great and the changing area is perfectly sized. They also have a great shower, even though its just one. Not too convenient when you have to wait, or if you have someone knocking when you are just finishing up. The front desk employees here are also pretty nice and friendly. And parking is easy — structured parking in Birmingham is free for the first two hours. The closest structure is half a block away.
So whats my beef with this particular studio? The clientele. Oh my gosh, the students take themselves super seriously here! Every lady here is a yogi and half, all decked out in $ 108 yoga pants. I’m chalking it up the location. Its Birmingham snobbery at its finest… and that’s coming from someone who practices yoga in West Bloomfield! At every other YS location I’ve been to, clientele seems nice and friendly and might even say hi if you place your mat next to them. Hell, they’ll even move over without you having to ask them first. Not so much here.
The schedule here is comparable to the WB location. I’ve only been to Cary and Caren’s classes here, both were ok. Cary’s tend to be challenging but sometimes its hard to hear him in the Yoga Rocks classes. From my experience, I don’t find the instructors here (that I’ve experienced) to be as nice as other locations as well. Hell, one of the above instructors was even checking his phone during a vinyasa flow. (check out the pronoun hint.)
For the same money, I rather get my zen on at another location. Sure, I’ll go here if a class perfectly fits in with my schedule; but I’m in no rush to practice here on a regular basis.

Great little spot! I very much enjoy coming here! It’s clean, smells great, and very nice staff!

I had done yoga before in college, but had never consistently practice, so when I wanted to start working out regularly again, only not in a traditional gym format, I came to the Yoga Shelter as recommended by my co-​worker. I was nervous I wouldn’t be good enough or remember enough of the poses, but after my first class with Cary, I was hooked.
I truly love practicing yoga here, the Yoga Rocks classes really opened my eyes to see beyond the traditional views of what a yoga class should be like. I was challenged in so many ways, and left feeling like I’d really conquered something and pushed my body to another level every time! They play upbeat music, and its welcomed to sing along or bounce to the beat as you go through flows, which makes it more fun.
After just about 3 weeks of going regularly I definitely noticed a difference in my whole body, in terms of: toning up more, greater ease of flexibility, and I was able to control my anxiety so much better than before. I’m not saying I lost 20 pounds or anything, but I truly felt better in my own skin, and the best part-​I WANTED to show up to class, it wasn’t a burden to fit into my schedule like working out so often seems to be. No matter if you’re a beginner or have been practicing for years, I really think this place challenges everybody and teaches you to have a greater sense of being alive, instead of gauging your level of health by the number of laps you can run, or how many pounds you need to lose.
This place will show you why yoga has changed so many lives, and should no longer be considered an activity solely for skinny celebrities and Whole Foods addicts. Despite being in Birmingham, it’s the first yoga studio I’ve been to in a long time where I don’t feel judged in any way.
Some classes are more crowded than I’d prefer, but that comes with any yoga center, and its never really been a huge issue for me. As long as you find a couple instructors you really like, you’re golden.
If you ever have questions or concerns, the front desk girls are always very kind and will remember your name. They provide personable friendly service, and I appreciate that very much.
I had to get stitches in my hand which limited my mobility and ability to go back to class recently, and the owner allowed me to put my account on hold until I am able to return with 100% health and mobility again.
Free parking is in the structure next door, website is updated regularly.
I just can’t wait for my hand to be healed so I can return! I miss going to Yoga Shelter every week!

I always have a wonderful experience doing slow flow @ Yoga Shelter (Birmingham) w/​Elaine. Her classes are forever full which is a testament to her talent of teaching yoga. Elaine teaches each class like it is her one and only session. She masterfully shows you how to breathe and have fun while holding challenging poses. Yogis who attend her class are of all shapes, size, gender and age.
The building is new and perfectly designed to steer the flow of many yogis. It is easy to get in and out with plenty of nearby parking.

The yoga shelter in Bham is a great place to practice yoga. The teachers are knowledgeable and develop great flows. The environment is great, and the staff are friendly. The only issue I have with this studio is that the teachers sometimes cut the heat towards the end of the class which I find annoying (I get cold!!), but it’s a small price to pay for an excellent yoga class. You gotta get there! Plus, you get your first week free!

This is a great studio to learn how to do yoga and for the low-​to-​intermediate level student. There are a few teachers who cater a bit more to intermediate yogis (Barbie B., Karen P., and Nick H.), but for the most part, the classes are pretty simple, easy-​to-​follow, and friendly. People of all sizes, shapes, and walks of life practice at Yoga Shelter, making it a very welcoming environment. However, if you are looking for more of a challenge in your yoga practice, you may want to look elsewhere. The facility gets the job done – nothing outstanding or particularly special about it. Do know that it gets VERY crowded in the changing area right before and after the busier classes.
The location is great – kitty corner to a parking structure where the first two hours you park there are free.

I have since changed to the Center for Yoga and can’t say enough about how much better it is. Shelter isn’t even real yoga. It is not nearly as hot or challenging as center. Plus Johnny is not a horrible owner like Erik is.

Free yoga for a week for new students. Random music mix from Usher to Led Zepp. If you’re looking for lots of hands on adjustments or assisted savasana, I’d inquire about specific instructors. Patrick sat on the floor giving instruction a majority of the Fusion class. Great space and hip merchandise.

I purchased the Groupon for Yoga Shelter three months ago; I purposefully waited that long to redeem, hoping the crowds would die down. No such luck. The studio is jam packed, mats are literally inches away from each other and the staff says the crowds are always like that. They say they aren’t filled «to capacity» but I’m not sure how you’re supposed to stretch and move when there’s someone literally 6 inches away. Definitely not the experience I was looking for.

Even thinking about writing this review, I am smiling. I can’t wait to walk into any Shelter to see a familiar face of the staff that has made the effort of getting to know me and making my yoga practice that much better. Yoga Shelter is making every yoga class more than just the physical poses and not only does the classes kick my ass but they challenges my mind! This isn’t a business they are running, it is a service. I suggest you all take advantage of the Free Week offered to all new students, get your butt to class and see what is in store for you.