Best of Toronto
The Best Yoga Studios in Toronto
The best yoga studios in Toronto offer respite from the rat race and sanctuary from the smog. They are spaces designed to encourage meditation, share energy and banish toxins. Whether occupying a former tattoo parlour in Parkdale or the palatial penthouse of a Yonge Street heritage building, Toronto's best meditative spots run the gamut from intimate to awe-inspiring.
This is a list sure to satisfy even the most resistant to the ancient Indian practice. Years ago, my very first yogic encounter left me squirming, unable to remain still (in body and mind) and skeptical of the spiritual elements. But yoga assumes many forms, and in a city as populous and diverse as Toronto, there's a brand of the practice for everyone.
I eventually found peace with it through Bikram (a 90-minute series of specific poses practiced in a heated room) because of its empowering and sweat-producing effects. Not a fan of exercise in 40-degree environment? Maybe an active yoga-pilates fusion class is your thing. Or, perhaps, a gentle restorative class for healing and relaxation. Whatever the expectation, Toronto has a yoga class to meet it.
While the recent Hip Hop Yoga event rustled some feathers among purist yogis, I am thankful that a centuries-old practice has evolved in so many ways to appeal to a wider audience. "Yoga" does loosely translate to "uniting" or "joining", after all.
Here's a list of the best yoga studios in Toronto, as voted by readers of this site.
See also:
The best pilates in Toronto
Note: This list was previously published on December 2nd, 2008. Comments below made up until January 24th, 2011 are in reference to the old list. We've purposely kept the archived comments here because we believe they (mostly) add value to this topic. If you don't want to have to wade through all of them, simply hit the "sort by newest first" link at the top of the thread.
Downward Dog
My experience with Downward Dog began with a Level 1 class, led by studio co-owner and 30-year yoga veteran, Diane Bruni. I mistakenly overestimated my abilities. Level 1 does not mean easy, and while I’m not really a beginner anymore, the Level 1 class was amply challenging, delving into handstands and poses that were out of my league. For newbies, Downward Dog offers Intro and Prep classes - a good place to start if, like me, you’re unsure of your level. Which, by the way, was not 1. The Queen Street and Beaches locations offer a mix of traditional Ashtanga and fun classes like Jock Yoga and Yoga Jam. More »
Moksha Yoga
Moksha’s Wellington studio has a decidedly different vibe from their old space on Richmond West where I was formerly a member. It has chilled out considerably and the spirit seems much less competitive. Moksha Hot Yoga, similar to Bikram, follows a specific set of poses each time, perfect for those squeamish in the face of change. But the studio keeps it fresh with occasional classes set to music or drumming. At $99, their unlimited class plans are among some of the most reasonable in the city. Still strapped for cash? Moksha pays volunteers in yoga through an excellent Energy Exchange program. More »
Bikram Yoga
It’s impossible to have lukewarm feelings for Bikram. The 90-minute hot-and-humid routine of poses draws a strong reaction from first timers. Love it or hate it, it’s an intense practice that draws measurable results. That is, if you can get past the dizziness and nausea usually experienced by newbies. Instructors are tough, challenging students to push farther and calling out anyone playing it safe or wiping sweat (dripping is encouraged). While competition goes against the principles of yoga, a positive competitive spirit is definitely present here, and I like it. More »
YogaSpace
The busiest and most overwhelming on our list, Ossington’s YogaSpace runs back-to-back classes daily, filling the common areas with rotating and anxious yogis-in-waiting. I had barely enough time to pack up my mat and props after a mid-day restorative class before participants of the next class were circling like vultures for my space. The bustle can be a bit unnerving, but the popularity of the studio is an obvious testament to the quality of its classes. All-level Hatha, Vinyasa, Pilates and specialty classes fill the hectic schedule. More »
Octopus Garden
Migrating from the Annex to new west College Street digs was a smart move for Octopus Garden. The new multi-level space accommodates two huge sunny studios and is home to Urban Herbvoire’s 2nd location - perfectly convenient for a post-yoga juice break. Classes are built for different levels of practice and the schedule includes specialty sessions including Kids’ Yoga and Meditation. If you can commit to at least a twice-per-week attendance, the $80 monthly unlimited plan is a steal. More »
Yoga Sanctuary
In a gorgeous heritage building fit for the offices of a seedy private eye, Yoga Sanctuary’s College Street location occupies the penthouse suite. Unlike many of the intimate studios on this list, the practice room feels more like the backdrop for a large ornate wedding. The mid-day Vinyasa class welcomed about 12 people last Wednesday. It easily could have accommodated 40. Yoga Sancturay’s Danforth location has recently added hot yoga to the mix. More »
Tula
Choose a sunny spot in the hot yoga studio and close your eyes. You’ll swear you’re on a beach in Mexico. It’s already established that I’m a bit biased towards hot yoga (the hotter, the better) but I also love this studio for combining a hot challenging class with a peaceful and welcoming environment. My instructor, Davian, was kind and understanding with first-timers in the class. Tula’s three studios double as full-service spas and offer cold yoga and pilates as well. More »
The Yoga Lounge
Freshly renovated, the Yoga Lounge’s Church and Richmond space has been bisected to allow for more flexibility in the schedule. Hatha runs simulataneously in the adjacent studio while I try out a noon-hour Yogalates class. Customer service is impressive here -owner Susan fusses with my bolster and blocks to set me up properly, while Max, the studio cat, pays students silent friendly visits during poses. More »
Misfit Studio
Owner Amber is an atypical yoga instructor, but I might have guessed that from the studio’s name. She’s brazen, kind of glamourous, and in a way a bit of a misfit herself. The best people are, really. In her new Parkdale studio - a revamped ex-tattoo shop - the vibe is intimate and not-so-serious. It’s my kind of yoga. I attended a noon yoga/pilates fusion class that had just one other participant. But rather than being awkward, it was fun, chatty and set to a soundtrack of Prince and Fleetwood Mac. More »
Breathe Yoga Studio
Breathe turns 10 years old in September, celebrating along with several of its original clients and teachers. Founder Svitlana Nalywayko believes that the studio’s strength (and customer loyalty) lies in its quality of teachers. Leslie, my instructor for a morning Hatha class, was a pro, guiding us through a seamless flow of precise poses and adjustments. Accommodating the kid-friendly Bloor West ‘hood, Breathe has recently introduced a family yoga series. More »
Discussion
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Unfortunately you seemed to miss studio in midtown Toronto, in a place such a Yonge and Eglinton. Fireflow Yoga, an Ashtanga based yoga studio at Yonge and Eglinton, has just celebrated its first year. We have a brand new renovated, intimate space with the best teachers north of Bloor. We invite both the reviewers of the article and any readers to drop by for a free first class. Namaste.
Thanks would appreciate any feedback
:-)
Practicing yoga has really made a difference in my life, and Kula in the Annex has been a really big part of that. I really urge anyone who is thinking about trying out yoga or in enriching their practice to give Kula a try!
I have struggled with depression for quite some time and I was really in a deep funk. My Dr. was urging me to join something social to get me out of the house and I decided I'd try yoga. I went to Kula in the Annex and even though I was feeling miserable most days, I always felt a little brighter as I walked into the calm and accepting space. I felt I could be honest and share my experience and relate to others. I used the studio and the classes to help me during a very difficult time and I am so happy that I did.
I now take classes regularly and I feel very grateful that I found this hidden gem of a studio in the big city.
Urban Edge Yoga is a yoga lifestyle with a difference. Every session here, whether it be a yoga class or a lifestyle workshop is followed by full vegan dinner and dessert in a relaxed and convivial setting (at no extra cost)
It's your place...
Come just for yoga, or with a desire to explore the lifestyle and deep practical wisdom behind it. You will find Urban Edge Yoga to be a warm and friendly environment where you can meet and mingle with a variety of likeminded people with interest in yoga.
Soul Food: Taste the Atmosphere! Every session is followed by a full vegan dinner and dessert in a relaxed and convivial setting (at no extra cost!)
Kitchen: At Urbanedgeyoga we love to cook, and we put love into our food. We approach cooking as a type of meditation, understanding that the consciousness and intention of the cooks affects those who eat the meal. Taste the difference!
Cuisine: All meals at Urban edge Yoga are pure Vegan. Every meal is a delightful and fresh experience; practically no 2 meals are the same!
Special Dietary Requirements?: Here we put people first. If you have any special dietary requirements such as those of a vegan diet, or have specific food allergies, ring us in advance to let us know you're coming and we will be happy to cater to your needs!
Check out the website for weekly sessions plus special events.
http://urbanedgeyoga.com/
Sincerely,
Sing Lung.
The temperature IS HOT, 45C-50C, and it is humid, so please dress appropriately.
http://hotyoga.ca
In Yoga,
Sasha
The Playground is not a Yoga studio, we offer a diverse schedule of functional/athletic training programs. Our Yoga program is a perfect fit for recreational athletes and fitness enthusiasts, who want to maintain/improve flexibility, balance, core strength and more. Call: (416) 458-8266 or e-mail: info@trainwithmarv.com for schedule and registration info. Come down and try a class - we'd love to get your feedback!
Introductory offer of $30 for 30 days but honestly can't picture stepping back into that damp crowded pit.
iamyoga.ca
http://yogagurl.com
Moksha Yoga uptown is nice but the washrooms are too cramped. I just went to Bikram Forest Hill and had a great experience. I will definitely go back.
This is an experience of a life time, I know Helen is comming to Toronto in November to teach it.
ThetaHealing™ is a technique that focuses on thought and prayer. ThetaHealing teaches how to put to use our natural intuition, relying upon unconditional love of Creator Of All That Is to do the actual “work”. We believe by changing your brain wave cycle to include the “Theta” state, you can actually watch the Creator Of All That Is create instantaneous physical and emotional healing.
I just use this everyday and not just for yoga, I help my friends and family and of course my self.
I used this while im doing my yoga and it takes me to a level i have never been before.
If you are interested you can contact Helen Christodoulou her email is thetahealing@cytanet.com.cy
I'm new to Yoga and need a good class with preferably more ladies than guys. I just dont feel good around too many guys.
Thanks,
I currently have a 20 class card to iam yoga. I must say I am not happy with the classes there. They do not mop the floors after every class, so everytime I will point out to the staff that it is "unpleasant" stepping on other people's sweat and potentially slipping. The smell inside the studio is also repulsive. I am only going back to finish off the classes I have left, and I am hoping to find a studio closer to home.
For the East End Mom: Toronto Parks and Rec does a Family Yoga class at Main Square Community Centre on Sundays. It's not a bad little Intro to yoga for the kids.
1. passion and knowledge of staff
2. cleanliness of facility
3. variety of classes
4. enjoyment of the classes
5. professionalism
6. consistency - knowing what to expect each and every time
7. good variety of packages (no expiry dates on certain packages)
8. accessible class schedules (all day long)
I can tell you what I didn't like elsewhere (not naming names):
1. weird changing room facilities (where they existed at all)
2. run in a chaotic fashion; no idea who was in charge or who to ask questions to
3. lack of variety/availability of classes
4. general indifference from staff
All facilities will have their pros and cons, but I really think you can tell the difference between a studio that is finding it's feet and one that is well grounded (puns intended!).
BLOGTO - it would be nice to actually look at the different aspects of whatever you are comparing (e.g. yoga studios), try to find a set of consistent factors that can be compared across the board, and create a rating system that is based on real comparisons, not whimsical or emotional impressions. Just an idea...
I am sorry to hear that you had a less than positive experience at the studio.
The studio is cleaned 3 times daily from top to bottom, we have over 25 people on staff to clean and tidy the entire studio space every day of every week. It's unfortunate that you didn't ind your experience matched this - we really strive to create a positive atmosphere in every way for our students. Please contact us directly if you feel that this is not taking place over the rest of your visits here.
Thanks!!
Linda
I personally messaged you on facebook, but received no response. I also talked to two of your staff about this, but there has been no change. The floor is still not cleaned after the 5:30 class, I usually go to the 6:45 class. I have already mentioned to your staff that slipping on other people's sweat is a safety hazard, it is even more frustrating that nothing has been done.
I am really sorry that you have had this experience - we will address it absolutely.
Thanks
Linda
Are you sprinting across the yoga floor??
"...The smell inside the studio is repulsive..."
NEWSFLASH: When you've 20+ people exercising in a room for 60-90 mins, the air is gonna get a little funky.
Can't stand the whiners who buy these "dirt cheap" yoga passes and expect to get Ritz Carlton service. Suck it up!... and next time you buy a pass, you might want to check the place out first.
Check it out!!!! The studio is beautiful and cozy... very welcoming atmosphere, full change rooms with showers.. and the instructors are top notch! First class is always free.
Iam Yoga also offers heated Core Flow classes (they are probably one of the most popular classes we offer) I have included a link a video that highlights that class and explains the principles behind how we teach it - Siobhan is one of the instructors and she's in the video. You will also get a chance to see the studio!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3ru7WOXSRA - Core Flow Video Iam Yoga Yonge&Bloor
Namaste.
Out of the 3 hot yoga places I have been to I really like HotYoga Studio on 720 Spadina, close to Bloor & Spadina, near the subway stn. , www.hotyoga.ca .
The vibe is very peaceful and the instructors really watches your poses, whether you're doing it wrong or the right way.
Try the Intro Pass for 30 for $30, it was awesome deal.
I haven't been to the Energy Exchange yet, but I've heard it's really beautiful, and I know that at least one instructor there is Excellent. His name is Geoffe Weibe.. I have become pretty picky with the instructors I go to, and his classes are excellent... Based on that, I would say it's worth giving it a shot!
GOOD LUCK!
I have been to many yoga studios in the city and the one feature that jumped out at me is how CLEAN Tula is. Not sure what your yoga background is to provide an assessment of the quality of the teachers at Tula but as I am a trained yoga teacher myself the quality of instruction was outstanding, very nurturing, no ego, very refreshing in the Toronto yoga community. Given how busy Tula is whenever I attend clearly they are doing a number of things correctly. Highly recommended!
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Classes inches from the wall, and to top it off a cockroach came crawling out to do a little
Downward dog action on my mat. Very horrifying and far from a de-stressing environment.
Yes the woman's change room is infuriatingly cramped. Go else where
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I would also recommend Moskha Uptown at Yonge-St Clair. I enjoyed a few of their hot classes and practice rooms very nice. I attended when the change rooms were too small/crammed/outdated, but they acquired more space and just renovated end 2011/beginning 2012 so that would make this studio even better. (I have not been back yet, as it's not the most convenient location for me.)
Downtown: Iam Yoga at Yonge/Bloor is a good studio for where it's located. Studio staff are nice and helpful. I've liked all the teachers I have had. Heat is great. It is VERY busy during the week. The practice room is packed and too frequently, some students cut it very close, coming in just before start time (when there's pretty much no room left.) Wait area/lounge is just outside the one practice room and gets very lively with people talking too loudly in this area and between class turnover. For this reason I do not feel totally calm in this studio when I'm in the practice room waiting for class to begin. Change rooms are spacious and there are showers where shampoo & conditioner and body wash is provided. (There's an odd smell here with the showers/plumbing, but you can't win everywhere.) There are no lockers but plenty of benches and hooks (which will be actively used - it's a busy studio with one practice room.) The do clean very actively, I witness it every time I am there. No, I don't see a mop up between classes…it's actually not practical for this studio. Students could easily clean up after themselves around the immediate space they've practiced in. That shouldn't be too much to ask of students (anywhere) respecting the space.
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