Decatur Yoga & Pilates

So welcoming and friendly to all levels. I am not very flexible but was not intimidated and left feeling more capable.

This is a really solid studio, with good instructors, a variety of classes (including several hot classes). The only thing I’d change are having a bigger men’s restroom and the pricing (yoga is expensive!).

This place has changed my life. I’m very happy to have started a yoga practice, the instructors are so supportive, and my husband is happy with my new found inner peace. There are three rooms for practice. The huge hot room accommodates large groups with plenty of personal space. All hot classes end with a cold lavender cloth on your forehead. There are two other spacious rooms for regular yoga and Pilates. The dressing rooms and shower facilities are always clean. There are so many diverse classes to choose from. I can only go in the evening and there’s a different class to take everyday. YAY! Signing up for classes can be easily and conveniently done online. The instructors are awesome, some better than others, but all great. They have a great introductory rate that is very worth doing. I highly recommend Decatur Yoga and Pilates!

This may very well be the best yoga/​mat pilates studio in the city. Fabulous atmosphere, great space, great instructors. I’ve never had a bad instructor here… they tend to be knowledgeable, friendly and more than willing to meet you where you are on that particular day physically and emotionally. I would especially recommend Douglas Johnson’s classes. It’s easy to schedule and pay online and you really need to do it this way if you are going to very early or very late classes. Also, the classes aren’t so so big that the instructor isn’t keeping an eye on you.
Two drawbacks: the parking situation is fairly abysmal… plan accordingly and the punch cards expire pretty quickly.

I LOVE hot core power with Astrid and Level 1 Flow with Maria.
Classes are worth every penny.
The hot room is gorgeous. The lotus room could use a little work…
Thank you for establishing such a beautiful yoga studio!

I have been practicing yoga for over a decade and am a physical therapist, so I have come to be particular about my yoga practice. Astrid is an amazing instructor in not only her class design, but also in what she exudes as someone who truly «practices» yoga and everything that goes with it. She always prepares your body for whatever peak pose and offers appropriate counter poses afterwards. She provides detailed instructions to make sure you’re not just making the shape, but truly understanding the pose. The studio itself has a variety of classes making it easy to have it fit into your life and your needs. Whether it is Bikram or just enjoying a hatha style class in a warm room, you will find something that suits you.

I love this studio! The teachers are great! I have done Hot Core Power and Bikram here. The studio is clean and well maintained. The staff is very friendly and welcoming to new students. I am also very pleased that I can schedule and pay for my classes online.
I highly recommend visiting their website and reading the Studio Etiquette if it will be your first time or if it has been a while since you took a yoga class.

My haven. I come here almost every day. Nuff said.

DYP is a welcomeing studio with knowledgeable and supportive staff. I have been practicing yoga for 14+ years and decided to try hot yoga about 3 years ago. The teachers at DY hooked me, and now it’s my home away from home. All of the teachers are excellent, but here are some highlights: Joe Palese is great on form, and has helped me correct postures that were stressing my back. I was defaulting to my much-​stronger hamstrings at the expense of my back, and he taught me to bend my knees a bit to get the alignment right before straightening my knees (which never occurred to me since my spine is flexible and my knees hyper-​extend). Holle creates an environment that is especially helpful at getting centered after a crazy day, and has also helped me get deeper into Bikram poses. Nicole is also a great teacher, and has helped me correct my form in Bikram (her explanations of how poses should feel is spot-​on, so if you learn best by hearing an explanation and then trying it, she is the teacher for you!). Both Holle, Joe, and Nicole would all be ideal for beginners (Joe’s Hot Vinyasa is an intermediate class, though, so stick to hot core power if you are a new yogi). I always go to Astrid’s classes when I want to be challenged (imagine a beautiful, positive, centered, and supportive drill sergeant, and you’ve got some sense of the wonder of the Astrid experience). Jenny’s Bikram and Hot Core Power classes are playful and consistent, and are thus a good barometer for how one is feeling on a given day. The Hot Vinyasa classes are for more practiced yogis. Malia is great when I want a challenge (both mental and physical), since she mixes up the flow a lot and keeps me from getting too comfortable or ego-​driven. Cheryl, Octavia, and Doug are also great for working the edge, although Doug also does some deep stretch classes that are good if one is injured, stiff, or just needs a break in between the more challenging flow/​Bikram classes. Cheryl is doing some amazing work bringing yoga into local public schools, so she brings some great energy into her classes. As for heat, Astrid, Jenny and Lana tend to keep it as hot as it gets (which I love, but it’s not for everyone), while Holle’s hover at around 100 degrees. Joe’s classes are the coolest (between 85 – 90 degrees). For non-​hot classes, the Pilates (Michelle really gets you working, and as so helpful when I had a shoulder injury and couldn’t do flow classes) and Level I Flow classes are good. Whether one is a newbie or already hooked on yoga, I recommend taking advantage of their introductory offer, which gives you unlimited classes for $ 35. That way you can try different classes/​teachers before deciding which payment plan works best for you. I go at least 3X per week most of the time, so I have the monthly unlimited plan ($ 108/​month), but if you think you’ll make it less than 9 times a month the card might be your best bet. For cash-​poor yogis, there are donation-​only classes on Sundays that are taught by teachers –in-​training that are usually great, too. Their website is very comprehensive and helpful, and the owner, Debbie, clearly runs the studio as a labor of love. The evening classes can be crowded and parking is always an issue, so plan to arrive early to reduce your pre-​class stress.

This really is a great yoga studio. I moved to a different part of Atlanta so getting there isn’t always easy, but I can’t give it up. Not only are the instructors great, the other people practicing are great too. I like how you find people of all ages, shapes and sizes… and levels!

Taking advantage of the new client introductory offer. Went to Pilates with Michelle and she was phenomenal. Very accommodating to beginners. There were lots of beginners on this particular day, actually.
Loved the class.

I decided recently to get back into my yoga practice. While exploring different studios I came across DYP… I noticed they mostly offered hot yoga (which I did not think I would like), but they had an excellent one month unlimited offer for new members– so I figured I would give it a try! Yoga can be quite expensive… So my first class was with Astrid, who might I add is amazing! It was a power class, and rather challenging which I enjoy! I have since found that I actually look forward to the warm room, not really Bikram, but the warmth in the room is womb-​like, you know, comforting… in my opinion.
Astrid, Douglas, Malia, and Joe are awesome. They always ask if there are ppl. new to yoga in the classes, and if you mind being adjusted or if you have any injuries they should know about. They play the right music and have excellent energy! I especially appreciate that Astrid uses Sanskrit names for the poses as I have been trying to learn them — in power yoga or vinyasa, Astrid has us on an Ashtanga sequence at this juncture– if that type of yoga interests you. I also appreciate being adjusted as I always wonder if I am doing the poses appropriately. The girls also talk the class through the poses and adjustments so that you understand how you should be positioned. Douglas is good as well, I especially like the body scan meditation (Yoga-​Nidra) he guides you through at the end of class while in Savasana– super relaxing! I swear I heard someone snoring during the last class– he also uses mostly Sanskrit– the class is a good balance of challenge and a more meditative approach– love the arm balances… Sometimes Robin subs and she offers a challenging class with good vibes as well. Malia sings to the class — it’s beautiful and i always leave her classes really zen-​d out:) There are beginners classes offered (level 1), and if you prefer hot just take the Hot Core Power classes– Joe is fabulous about ensuring that you are positioned correctly! He is very technical so if that is what you need, he is your guy! if you are new– the Power Flow and Vinyasa classes are challenging… Astrid often works with inversions and arm balances (Doug does lots with arm balances as well) which I especially appreciate– still working on those, but I’m glad they are incorporated for sure… And Astrid is super spiritual and vocal about it– it’s very refreshing.
It is a welcoming atmosphere and the room is nice. I have been to other studios in the city that are in more modern loft spaces –which I really like… but DYP is close to my house, the teachers are knowledgeable, dyp offers classes at many different times during the day and evening, and I never thought I would say this, but I really like the hot room. Also, it is reasonably priced for a monthly unlimited member– or yearly if you can make that type of investment up front… OH, and there is no longer carpet in the hot room… I could see where that would be odd– and maybe kind of gross… All wood now, maybe cork, not sure, but it is nice. They also offer yoga for kids if you have them.- and prenatal yoga if you have one on the way!
Oh, and after hot classes you get a cool lavender scented towel placed on your forehead… scrumptious little cherry on top! Love it!
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I have recently become a hot yoga junkie. Like, cannot go more than a day without, always have spare towels in my car, addicted. Not only does hot yoga relax and bring peace to my day, but it is also an AWESOME work out. Decatur Yoga & Pilates is definitely one of the best spots in town to get your yoga-​sweat on.
Located in Downtown Decatur (next to Dancing Goats), DYP offers a new student discounts where you pay $ 40 for your first month of unlimited classes. This is unheard of, as individual yoga classes at many studios can as much as $ 20+ dollars. This deal was so amazing that I often did two-​a-​days just to get my moneys worth, and because like I said, I’m addicted.
Astrid and Malia are my personal favorite instructors for Hot Vinyasa and Hot Core Power. While no two Hot Vinyasas and Hot ore Powers are the same (which is one of the best things about the studio), they do also offer 60, 75, and 90 minute Bikram classes as well if that’s the kind of structured yoga you’re into. Personally, the hour and fifteen minute classes are the perfect length, to get your heart rate up all while stretching and toning. The last five minutes or so of shavasana are always the best and more rewarding part about yoga, but at DYP, they place a cool lavender oil-​scented towel over your eyes. Let me tell you it is heaven on earth and makes all the sweating and bending worth while.
If you’re a yogini or just like to get active and try new forms of exercise, DYP is the spot for hot (or not) yoga.

THE BEST!
Astrid on Tuesdays for Bikram is who got me hooked. Jenny’s 4:30 Friday class is a fantastic way to start your weekend off on the right foot.
I can’t say more good stuff about this studio.
The ONLY thing I would change is for them to find an alternative flooring material for the hot room. The carpet is a little funky. I’ve seen cork in other studios and love it.

Yes… I can run and lift weights but if you ask me to touch my toes I might have a problem. I am not flexible. So to sort out my predicament, I sought after Yoga. The place that I turned to was Decatur Yoga & Pilates.
I really like this place. Lots of eye candy, relaxing décor, cougars who look like they are in their 20s and the yoga teacher was hot.
Oh yea… the yoga. Errr… the yoga was great. I did the Hot Vinyasa Stretch (yoga in a hot room) class. I’m not familiar with yoga and even though my teacher didn’t go through all the moves with me (she knew I was new and told me that before the class and her style of instruction which was cool with me), I found her instruction that she gave to the rest of the class and following her movements easy to follow. She did pay attention to me and gave me a few instructions and adjustments when I need them. I loved at the end of the class they try to relax you before you go out «into the world» and de-​stress you. I almost fell asleep and the wet, scented towel on the face was a nice touch! The teacher was great, good personality, jovial, easy to work with and hot [I’m not talking about the temperature of the class ;) ]. The culture and people of this place is «hippie» in a good way. They like are friendly, warm, and willing to share. The staff was awesome and helpful.
They have showers in the locker rooms for you to rinse off after you are done with hot yoga. They also have mats you can rent, if you didn’t bring your own. Make sure to bring your own water for the hot yoga classes. They are one of the few certified Bikram yoga places in GA (Bikram is a specific style of hot yoga). If you are not familiar with yoga and want to check it out they have a month unlimited visit pass for new comers for $ 35.
Definitely going back. I’m going to pretend like I can’t do or know how to do the moves so that the teacher is more «hands on» with me ;) BAD TOM! Hahaha

I have tried a few classes and they are all different. I find that joes classes are more agro and serious which I sometimes need. I took Astrid’s power core class last night and it kicked total ass! Seriously, the class was Where the Wild Things Are themed bc the death of Maurice Sendak. She is so fun, her chanting is great, and says things like «wave your freak flag».
Only negatives are that the changing room is SMALL especially when it’s bum rushed after class and it’s a little pricey, but the lavender towels are ohh such a treat.
I do have a disclaimer for newbies– my first classes were super discouraging. Class is stupid hot, there’s people doing bad ass inversions when «warming up», and the fact that copious amounts of sweat pour out of your body thus nullifying any cuteness until showering. But, bringing a friend definitely helps as does taking non-​hot classes interspersed with hot yoga. Classed her are full of serious yogis, and newbies alike… Just make your practice your own and ignore the superfluous stuff. Soon you will be a badass like the rest of ‘em.

Picture it: Friday evening in September. Sitting behind a computer at work. About to have a mental breakdown. Tired of wedding planning.
I immediately googled «yoga» and «Decatur,» and this is the first website that popped up. I was set on taking a yoga class Saturday morning, and was insistent on dragging my fiancé with me. I’ve tried yoga classes once weekly for the past year at work, so I considered myself to have a solid foundation, thanks to a wonderful instructor who teaches in the Iyengar tradition.
I was so happy to see that they were having a $ 35 introductory special. 1 month unlimited for $ 35?! That’s amazing! I was game.
My first class was a Deep Stretch Yin Yoga class with Douglas. Douglas’s voice was very soothing, and his introspective guidance also allows for some self-​reflection during the poses. I left feeling light, unburdened, and completely relaxed.
My second class (and to whom I owe a major thank you to for completely changing my life) was a Bikram 75 class with Astrid.
I walked into the 105 degree room terrified for my life. I was surrounded by people of all ages and sizes, and noticed two extremely experienced-​looking yogis «practicing» headstands. Where was I?! People DO this on a regular basis? I wanted to yell «HOLY $H|T It’s HOT» but I tried to calm myself down. Astrid walked into the room and asked if anyone was new. I shyly raised my hand but affirmed that I had prior yoga experience. I wanted to leave and bathe in cold water. Immediately. Please. Get. Me. Out. Of. Here. was a thought that kept repeating in my head.
I’m so glad I stayed. Bikram yoga is seriously the best thing that I’ve discovered, ever. You don’t have to be experienced to try it. It’s a yoga practice that is welcoming and accepting of all. Astrid is very motivating, cheerful, and just fabulous. I think of Bikram yoga as a mindfuck. It’s really the only way I can describe it. Your mind is confused as to why you’re there, but your body just loves it and can’t get enough of it. In a little over 6 weeks, I have seen a major improvement in body tone. I feel fabulous. My skin has never looked better. I have a glow. I feel that my body systems have strengthened. I have found a modicum of inner peace that I hope continues to grow. Bikram «forces» you to self-​reflect (you keep your «eyes on your eyes in the mirror» as Astrid says, throughout the class). It’s a lot harder than it sounds. Ever stared at your reflection for 75 – 90 minutes straight in 105 degrees? I dare you try it.
I also do both the Bikram 75 and Bikram 90 classes. Other favorites include Hot Core Power Yoga, Bikram 75 with Jenni, Pranakriya with Marlysa, and Therapeutic Yoga with Douglas.

Heath has since left and, as biased and selfish as I am, that was a big negative for me. His classes were far and away my favorites. I’ve tried other teachers and they’re, well, a-​ok. Not fabulous, but not substandard (to steal from another review). If I lived or worked closer or their schedule were a bit more expansive, I could see myself continuing to go there. I do think there are better options for hot yoga around town. Granted I never tried a full 90 minute class only Heath’s hour long classes felt neither rushed nor incomplete. When dealing with that kind of heat, pace is something that I’m definitely focusing on. I think they also may not keep the room quite as hot as is considered the standard, but at least they don’t market themselves as a true Bikram studio.
One thing I do love is the lavendar rosemary towels they put on your eyes during savasana. I need to find that oil. Now.

I’ve done a heap of Bikram (aka Sweaty Yoga) at different studios in different cities, and this was my favorite place. It’s clean, spacious and has a nice feeling and the teachers are excellent.
Some people may complain that they stray from absolute Bikram by shortening the time or lowering the heat level slightly, but 105 freakin degrees is too painfully hot anyway.
101= having a challenging experience
105=dripping sweat from places you didn’t know could sweat (like eyelids and shins), and feeling like you might puke or die.
I also enjoy switching it up a bit with the class variations, it keeps the brain sharp. It’s all about letting go, not being uptight. «Attachment is our greatest self-cruelty.”~Thich Nhat Hanh/​Sujata
For newbies, it really is important to be prepared for your first hot class. No belly full of bacon, food-​free is best, and drink a ton of water a few hours before and after. If you drink too much water in the class, you might be sorry when you get to the compression poses where your guts are squeezing up against your thighs, believe me. Wear something tight/​not baggy and be prepared to get soaked in sweat.
I did one class that had music~I thought it would be zoned out ragas. When Amy Winehouse came on, I was pretty distracted and it ended up in my head all night.
I have never felt better than after a Bikram class. Blissful swoon…
Cheers~

This was my first experience in Yoga. The teacher, who I can’t remember the name of, knew I did something before other than Yoga since I had good posture. I found that to be a good sign.
Anyway, it’s another flow based Yoga in hot heat. The class isn’t beginner friendly. Due to my past experience in other body conditioning methods; I have decent balance, flexibility, and stamina. But she put us in positions that I had trouble in. In the crowded class we were in, only a handful seem to be able to do those poses. And since it was a flow based class, I didn’t feel we had the time to really explore the more difficult positions.
The weirdest thing was the teacher taught everything in a weird, new-​age, hippy, high-​on-​drugs talk. She kept saying crap I couldn’t understand. For example, she kept telling us to reach for the sky with our heart. At first, I’m like WTF is she talking about? Later, I figured out she wanted us to lift our chests. Why can’t she just say that?
If you have your new-​age, hippy decoder ring, this place might be good for you. Although I must admit, the whispery, new-​age, hippy talk does relax you after a while.