The Class: CorePower Yoga’s C1 class at Mockingbird Station is ideal for the beginner Yogi. A Vinyasa series practice, the class links movement to breath through a sequence of moderately paced poses meant to increase strength and flexibility. The studio is set to a warm 85 degrees and the class set to a relaxing soundtrack, both of which ensure an invigorating experience.
The Appeal: This class promises to focus your mind while building strength. The perfect break from a hectic day, CorePower Yoga’s zen atmosphere and friendly, knowledgeable instructors guarantee an exhilarating hour for both your mind and your body.
The Instructor: My instructors were the best part of my experience. My main instructor, Maridee, was extremely welcoming and gave me a tour of the studio when I first arrived. She learned my name and offered me personal words of encouragement during the balance portion of class. Maridee was accompanied in the session by Megan, a knowledgeable adjuster whose purpose was to watch us during class and correct our postures when needed. The personalized attention I received was amazing, and I felt like both Megan and Maridee wanted nothing more than for me to have the best yoga practice.
The Space: Overlooking Mockingbird Station, CorePower Yoga’s lobby is modern and brightly lit. With merchandise available for purchase along the walls, the lobby then branches off into two spacious studio rooms, which are lined with mirrors and complete with high-quality surround sound systems. The sizable locker rooms are replete with showers (and amenities), toilets, and lockers. The entire facility is immaculately clean, peaceful, and welcoming.
Who’s There: Friendly, young women in their early 20s to mid 30s
How It Went: Upon arriving at the studio, I was given a tour of the facilities. Then, after receiving my complementary mat and towel (free with your first class) I went into the heated studio and began stretching to warm-up. Maridee came in right on time, introduced Megan, then started the music, beginning the class.
The class was broken into four parts. First, after dedicating our practice, we entered into a series of postures that got our bodies moving. These poses included a lot of Standing Vinyasas and Chaturangas. Next, we entered into an ab-focused part of class, in which we performed bicycles and crunches among, other postures such as Warrior I and Warrior II. Then came the balance portion of class, where we entered into Raven, Tree Pose, and Dancer’s Pose. This was the most challenging part of class, and definitely the part when my heart started to race and my muscles to shake! The final portion of class included a relaxing cool down and mediation.
Throughout the entire class, Maridee would call out the postures and then provide instructions on how to do them. For the difficult poses, such as the Raven, she’d go to the front of the class to demonstrate the move and its possible modifications. This instruction was great and never once did I feel lost. I really appreciated having Megan present as well. She adjusted my hips during the Warrior poses, deepened my stretch during the Revolved Chair posture, and helped straighten my back during the half-lift. I was relieved to know I was doing all of the poses correctly and that I was truly getting the best out of my workout.
The Aftermath: After class I felt great – loose and detoxified. The next day, I felt sore, especially in my upper back!
Loved: Having an adjuster presents is literally the most brilliant idea ever. As a yoga novice, I usually spend most of the session asking myself, “Am I doing this right? Am I accidently tearing my muscles?” Knowing Megan was there to offer assistance or adjust me into the correct position made me feel so comfortable. I definitely learned more in this one hour class than I did during a 6-month beginner course at my gym!
Hated: Honestly, there is not a single thing about my experience I did not enjoy. From the friendly instructors to the pristine bathrooms, CorePower Yoga knows how to provide a top-notch experience.
Cost: Your first week at CorePower Yoga is completely free! After that, a single class may be purchased for $23. One month unlimited rings in at $345, while packages of 5, 10, and 20 classes range from $105-$345. Student, teacher, and military discounts are available as well.
Difficulty Level: This class is great for beginners. I felt challenged – especially during the balance portion of the practice – but also felt comfortable being able to modify the postures to fit my specific abilities. The heated room made the experience a little more difficult, as well!
Bottom Line: CorePower Yoga was the best yoga experience I’ve ever had. I loved the instruction and found the facilities to be state-of-the-art. I highly, HIGHLY recommend this studio to beginners and expert Yogis alike!
