FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Class Practicalities

What yoga or pilates class should I take as a beginner?

All of our yoga and Pilates classes are suitable for beginners apart from those labelled as "not for beginners". Please let us know any injuries or conditions beforehand so that you can get the most benefit from your yoga class.

For room temperature classes in-studio, we recommend starting with Vinyasa or Flow, Rest and Release. For the Hot Room, we recommend starting with a more static class such as The 26 or the more dynamic Hot Flow Hour. If you are unsure what yoga class is right for you, please email info@yogavenue.co.uk and we can help you find the right fit.

How often should I practise yoga and/or pilates?

Yoga and pilates classes can be attended daily - we encourage you to listen to your body so that you can adapt as you need. You feel the benefits of yoga after just one class, but you really consolidate and embody these benefits with a regular practice. Between 4 and 7 times a week is where the magic happens!

How long are yoga and pilates classes?

Studio Class lengths vary from 45 - 90 minutes. Our online classes range from 20- 90minutes.  Class times are listed on our schedule.

What if I am late for class?

The door to our studio closes at the time the class starts so unfortunately we are not able to allow you in if you are late. 

Can children come to yoga classes?

YogaVenue is not equipped to receive children under the age of 16. Children 16-18 must have a parent or legal guardian come to the studio and sign a waiver for them in the presence of a teacher. This policy also applies to YVTV online classes. We do at times run specific kids yoga classes and we also run family yoga classes. These can be arranged as private classes as well. Please email us if you are interested. 

Will it be busy in class?

We do have maximum capacity restrictions on all our classes and these vary depending on the style of yoga or pilates class and the studio space. Evening classes are busier than day time classes so if you prefer quieter classes we recommend early morning or day time classes or suggest you book a one to one class. 

Do men do yoga and pilates?

The simple answer is yes! About 30% of our students are male. If you are interested in a women only class please email us and we can arrange this as a private class. 

What is the difference between yoga and pilates?

Yoga and pilates are both great forms of exercise and we offer both including reformer pilates. There are many similarities between the two as both are good for developing strength, balance and flexibility. Yoga places more emphasis on relaxation and some classes integrate a component of meditation into the class. The breath is also harnessed differently in yoga and pilates. Try both to figure out what is the right one for you and which you enjoy. We offer both mat based pilates and reformer pilates classes. 

Do I have to register or book in advance?

It is a good idea to book in advance for studio classes particularly as some classes get busy and we do not want you to miss out. For online classes, you need to book online to receive the Zoom link for our online live streamed and replay yoga classes. For On Demand classes, you only need one of our YVTV memberships.

What should I wear to yoga or pilates class?

Wear comfortable clothes that you can move in. Gym clothes are fine. Try to wear clothes that are tighter fitting otherwise when you fold forward your shirt will be in your face! Women mostly wear leggings, capris or shorts with tank tops or short tops. Men usually wear shorts and T-shirts.

Where do I change and is there space to store my belongings?
We have changing rooms at the studios and lockers. 

How do I prepare for my yoga or pilates class?

Arrive in good time for your class. It is recommended that you do not eat anything heavy 2-3 hours before a class. Ensure you are well hydrated before class. Although you may drink small sips of water during class, the real hydration happens before and after. Herb teas, coconut water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices can all help you to achieve your daily hydration levels.

For hot yoga classes please bring a towel to put on your mat so you don't slip.

For reformer pilates classes please either wear socks with grips on them or go bare foot. 

Online Yoga

Are online classes any good? Are online yoga classes as good as in-person yoga classes?

At YogaVenue, we think so! Ever since the first lockdown we have striven to ensure that our online offering is at the standard of excellence our YV community has grown to expect from us in studio. Our teachers interact with our students, keep a careful eye to make sure everyone is safe and even create custom yoga playlists for their classes that you can find on our Spotify! Practising from home will never be the same as practising in the studio, but different is not better or worse - it's just different! If you're unsure if online yoga classes are right for you, please email us on info@yogavenue.co.uk to chat about your needs. We also run regular Dos and Don'ts of Online Yoga workshops to help you get the most out of online yoga classes.

What is the best online yoga class for beginners? Is it safe for a beginner to practise online yoga?

All of our online classes are safe for beginners. For your first online yoga class, we recommend attending a live-streamed yoga class rather than a replay class or on demand YVTV class. In a live streamed class, the teacher can watch you and give advice on safe alignment and modifications. Please let us know of any injuries or conditions before attending class. If you're not sure which online yoga class is right for you and your needs, please email us on info@yogavenue.co.uk and we'll be happy to find the right class for you!

How do I start yoga online? How much are online yoga classes?

You can purchase a drop in for our live online classes at £10 per class. If you want to watch our on demand videos you can sign up for our monthly YVTV membership, which, if you have some of our monthly membership options, access is  included.  Click here to make your purchase. 

I'm looking for online yoga with good music! Is there music in your online classes?

Our teachers create their own custom music playlists on Spotify for students to play at home along with their live streamed or replay classes. Some of our professionally filmed on demand yoga classes have music in the background, some of them do not! There is something for everyone.

What is the difference between a live streamed class, a replay class and an on demand class?

We have a variety of YVTV online classes to suit your needs and your schedule. Our live streamed online Zoom classes are held in real time on Zoom with your favourite YV teachers. Your teachers will be able to give you feedback and modifications. We recommend you email info@yogavenue.co.uk if you have any new injuries that the teacher will need to keep in mind while instructing you. Our replay classes are recordings of live streamed classes on Zoom. These are available for 24 hours from the scheduled time, you must sign up online in order to receive the link to the recording. Our On Demand library is a selection of classes and tips professionally filmed in HD as well as Zoom recordings. You can access these classes anywhere, anytime from as little as £24 per month!

Do you have online yoga and meditation classes?

Every month we have an online Meditation session with experienced practitioner Paul Steinberg - all the way from New York! Anybody can join, especially people who are completely new to meditation. Click here to learn more.

Is there an online yoga class for runners?

All of our online and in person yoga classes can support strength and flexibility for runners. Please email info@yogavenue.co.uk so that we can help you find the right yoga class for you!

Do you have an online yoga anatomy course?

We have an anatomy course with Dr. Lori Zucker, a physiotherapist and yoga teacher, as part of all of our Spiralling Crow Teacher Trainings. Currently, the anatomy module is online only. We also run monthly online Anatomy-Led Movement sessions with Lori, click here to learn more!

Is an online yoga class a workout?

Some of our classes are more dynamic than others - for example, you may work up more of a sweat with online HIIT yoga classes or Power Flow yoga classes than you would with an online Slow Flow and Stretch class. Please email us on info@yogavenue.co.uk to learn more about our online yoga classes and to find the right yoga class for you.

Do you run online yoga teacher training?

In 2020 we ran two Spiralling Crow Yoga Teacher Training programmes with a blend of online and in person instruction in line with Covid Secure regulations. We are also hosting several online only teacher trainings in 2021 - our Hot Power, Slow Flow and Restorative trainings will all be online only. We are constantly adapting in accordance with UK and international best practices so that we can deliver the quality of course you expect while keeping you safe. We will keep all teacher trainees updated as we adapt to changing regulations. Please email us on training@yogavenue.co.uk if you have any further questions!

Hot Yoga

What is hot yoga?

Hot yoga is a yoga class practised in a room between 34 and 38 degrees celsius at 40% humidity. The yoga sequences are specially designed to be practised in a hot room. Different classes are held at different temperatures, please check our individual class pages to learn more.

What should I expect from my first Hot Yoga class?

Expect to sweat! If you have taken a yoga class before, the poses used in Hot Flow and Hot Power will be familiar to you. The 26 has a set sequence of postures that do not change and are always practiced in the heat. It was designed this way. It may take a few classes to get used to the heat, or you may fall in love with it after your first class.

Why the heat?

The heat improves our capacity to stretch so that we can go deeper with less chance of injury. It can improve concentration and discipline.

Is hot yoga safe?

Hot yoga, like any other form of yoga, is safe as long as you practise responsibly. Practising responsibly means that you let your teacher and studio know of any existing preconditions and injuries before starting a yoga practice. You must ensure you hydrate well and do not eat a heavy meal before a hot yoga class. Listen to the teacher and listen to your body. 

Is hot yoga good for weight loss?

Yoga can support you in your weight loss journey. Some classes are more physically rigorous than others and therefore will burn more calories - please contact us on info@yogavenue.co.uk to find the right practice for your fitness goals.

How do I prepare for a hot yoga class?

Let the teacher know in advance if you have any injuries or conditions before beginning any hot yoga class. For in studio classes, arrive early so that you can meet the teacher and chat further about your needs. Do not eat anything heavy for 2 to 3 hours before a hot yoga class. Ensure you are very well hydrated before class. Although you may drink small sips of water during class, the real hydration happens before and after. Herb teas, coconut water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices can all help you to achieve your daily hydration levels. Make sure you have your own mat and your own towel. We recommend bringing two towels in case you are a heavy sweater.

Can I practise Hot Yoga online?

Yes! The heat is a tool to help us go deeper in our hot practice, but this yoga is just as beneficial without the heat. 

How can I recreate the heat at home?

If you would like to recreate the heat at home, we recommend using a space heater and humidifier (the humidity is what makes you sweat!). You can also turn on the radiators, put on some extra layers and mist the air. 

Health

Am I too old to practise yoga and/or pilates?

You are never too old! Yoga and pilates are for all ages from children to retirees, as long as you are prepared to listen to the teacher as well as your own body for guidance then anybody can benefit from attending yoga classes. Children 16-17 must have a parent or legal guardian sign a waiver for them in the presence of a teacher. Before beginning any new activity it is wise to consult your doctor as to its suitability for you, especially if you have any pre-existing or chronic conditions.

Can yoga or pilates help if I have had an injury or surgery, or if I am suffering from a pre-existing condition?

Please let the teacher know via email at info@yogavenue.co.uk if you have a specific medical condition or injury before class. Yoga and pilates can help with injuries and support the healing process safely but the teacher needs to know in advance to be able to help you. Do use your common sense, don’t push too hard initially and don’t be afraid to sit down and rest whenever you need to – after all, you know your body better than anyone else and you should listen to it.

Can I practise yoga and/or pilates if I am pregnant?

Yoga and pilates can be extremely beneficial in terms of helping you to relax, learn breathing techniques and keep fit and healthy while pregnant. However, it is not recommended that you practise Yoga during the first 3 months of your pregnancy.  So much is happening to your body during this time it's important to give your body the time it needs to create a new life. After 3 months, and you are fit and healthy with no complications it is recommended that you attend a specific pregnancy Yoga class. We currently do not offer pregnancy specific Yoga classes at YogaVenue.

Regular yoga classes are not recommended during pregnancy if you are new to yoga. We generally do not allow pregnant students into class unless you have a very strong practice and have attended class at YogaVenue for at least 6 months prior to pregnancy regularly (approximately 3/5 times a week), have experience with pregnancy yoga and sign off from a teacher.

For more information on practising Yoga while pregnant please contact Caroline on info@yogavenue.co.uk.

Can yoga and pilates help me lose weight?

Yoga and pilates can support you in your weight loss journey. Some classes are more physically rigorous than others and therefore will burn more calories - please contact us on info@yogavenue.co.uk to find the right practice for your fitness goals.

Can I practise yoga and/or pilates while I am on my period?

There is much discussion in yoga circles about whether to practise on your cycle or rest, and whether to do inversion postures (when your legs and hips are higher than your abdomen). Medical and energetic opinions range from not practising at all during your whole cycle (e.g. for a full 5 days) to practising consistently throughout the cycle. A sensible middle ground may be to rest on your peak cycle days and return when your energy is once more at full potential. While we have not found any scientific data to say you should not practice at this time, ultimately the decision is yours and you should use common sense and listen to what your body needs.

Can yoga help with anxiety and stress?

Yoga can be hugely beneficial for managing stress and anxiety. The practice of yoga stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, having a calming effect on the body. Research has shown that a regular yoga practice has positive benefits on mental health, especially for those who struggle with depression and anxiety.

Can yoga and pilates  help me build strength? Can yoga make me more flexible?

A regular yoga and pilates practice will increase strength and flexibility simultaneously. This is why we offer both at the studio. All of our classes involve a balance of strength building and stretching. Please email info@yogavenue.co.uk to find the right class for your goals.