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Yoga Union
Categories: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Active Life Fitness & Instruction Gyms Yoga, Gyms [Edit]
2043 SE 50th AvePortland, OR 97215
Neighborhoods: Southeast Portland, Mt. Tabor
(503) 235-9642
- Hours:
Mon, Fri 9 am - 7:30 pm
Tue-Thu 7 am - 7:30 pm
Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm
Sun 9 am - 3:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
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27 reviews for Yoga Union
27 reviews in English
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Review from christopher n.
Portland, OR
4/9/2011
I've been to five yoga studios in the metro area and none of them matches Yoga Union. Expert teaching, a committed community, and an atmosphere of support are their ingredients for yoga practice.
Arrive early, especially for the popular hot flow classes, and prepare yourself for all of the goodness that yoga has to offer. -
Review from Kate G.
5/6/2011
The instructor/owner was way too into the Yoga lifestyle for me. I'm not a Yoga type and am honestly just there to work out and get more flexible not to form a community or to reach a higher mental state. With that said, I found the instructor's ongoing namaste-ish philosophical pointers extremely distracting. At one point he even asked us all to take a moment to feel the presence of the person sitting next to us. Seriously? I didn't find the session to be very challenging either. Other folks seem to love this place but it's just not my cup of tea. Nice folks and cute space but if your looking to get a challenging workout and avoid a yoga "scene" then this place is not for you.
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Review from Danielle K.
Portland, OR
6/24/2008
I hate gyms and group exercise.
I am very self-conscious of my body image.
I am very inflexible.
BUT
I kinda dug Yin Yoga.
Okay, so Yin Yoga isn't really a hard core workout, as it is completely floor exercises, but holding positions for several minutes at a time can be straining, too. And damn if I'm not really sore a few hours after class, and the next day.
But what really made me comfortable here was the fact that the aura was incredibly calming. Almost total quiet, save for your breathing and the smooth guidance of the instructor (who, by the way, never made me feel weird because I couldn't do full poses, and graciously helped anyone who needed props), it would be easy to fall asleep if you weren't contorting your body and being conscious of your breathing.
I also didn't feel judging stares from people who'd been there before, which was a big plus, and a reason why I would consider going for another class.
Hot Yoga happens to be right before Yin, so the room was a little warm, but the breeze from an open garage door helped air it out.
Oh, and when I got home, I had a welcome email from the studio. They rocked. Considerate, calming, peaceful, helpful, and encouraging toward the inflexible.
Namaste! -
Review from Don B.
4/26/2008
Hot yoga makes me sweat.
Yoga union makes me smile.
Smiling while sweating is a good thing.
I'm on the 2-week trial, but I doubt I'll ever escape without becoming a monthly member.
Quality instructors, good facilities, nice people, and... uh... did I mention HOT YOGA?!?!?
I need some more water. -
Review from Sara D.
Portland, OR
1/5/2009
This yoga studio is warm, friendly and inviting. As a newcomer to the practice, I really appreciated the welcoming vibe I got upon entering. Signing up was easy - all I had to do was fill out a simple postcard with my information, and when I was finished the lady at the counter gave me a quick tour. They have a nice little lounge area up front where you can sit and relax, and I'm pretty sure they offer complimentary tea. They also have a few basic yoga items for sale if needed. The building is very small, but intimate. You remove your shoes near the front door and place them in the shoe rack provided, and then proceed to either the women or men's changing rooms where they offer showers, towels, and cubbies to place your things.
The actual yoga studio is very nice - bamboo floors, warm, bright room and just generally really clean and open. I've really been enjoying their hour long free Yoga Basics 101 class on Saturdays, and the classes that they charge for seem to be priced fairly. I definitely plan on buying a package once I've got these basics down! The instructor for the class I've been attending is very helpful, has a calming presence and is great at teaching us newbies what we're doing and why we're doing it. The only reason why I'm not awarding a fifth star is because I'm so new to yoga, I've yet to experience many other studios. But although I don't have much to compare this place to, I have a feeling I'll be spending most of my time and money here. -
Review from Adrienne A.
Portland, OR
8/9/2010
I've been using up my Groupon for Yoga Union ($30 for a month's worth of free classes, possibly the best Groupon deal I've ever seen), and so far I really enjoy it. I've tried a variety of classes, from yin to prana vinyasa to hot yoga, and while they're all different according to the instructor's diverse styles, they've all been great. The hot yoga classes can be kind of full (though the 3:30 on Sunday afternoon is less crowded), and though the heat isn't up to Bikram or even power vinyasa levels, it's still h-o-t. The flow is slower and more grounded than power vinyasa classes I've tried at other studios - fewer chatarungas, which makes this a good class for those who want heat but are less aerobically-inclined.
I've also really enjoyed the free Yoga 101 class on Saturday afternoons -- a very solid introduction to yoga for beginners, it's also a decent yoga class in and of itself for more experienced yogis. Try it!
The studio itself is clean and cozy; my only two complaints are that there aren't lockers (just cubbyholes), so you can't bring in valuables, and the ladies bathroom stall has only a curtain as a door. A bit lacking in privacy...
Parking behind the studio and on nearby streets is ample, and the studio's prices are slightly lower than the Portland average.
Two thumbs up, all around. -
Review from Jen I.
3/16/2008
Super friendly staff and a great space. The room is large with windows you can see out of but people on the outside can't see in so you don't have to feel aware of how awkward you may look sweating in triangle pose.
I went to the Saturday morning Hot Yoga class. Natalia's voice was soothing as she guided us through a series of poses. I loved how she gave us five minutes at the end of class for us to do whatever poses we felt we needed or wanted before Savasana.
The bathrooms are equipped with cubbies and hooks for your belongings and there are showers available. The atmosphere is very welcoming. If I lived in Portland, I'd be here everyday. -
Review from Candice H.
San Francisco, CA
4/19/2008
Great teacher, Annie introduced herself to me right away. I wasn't too sure about the carpet floors, but it was sturdy and hard enough to practice any sort of yoga on. (edit - they are redoing the floors end up April!! yay!) Easy to find location. Great class, made me work! (Prana Vinyasa). I don't like hot classes, so this class was a perfect mild temp of 80. She was hands on during the class, which is what I like. Adjustments feel like massages.....amazing. Great unique studio.
Equipped with a cool lounge, shower stalls and amenities, restrooms, locker area. I don't really use any of those tho.Listed in: My Neighborhood
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Review from Alice N.
Portland, OR
7/30/2008
A hidden pearl of beauty!
Indistinguishable from the exterior aside from the large signs, behind the tinted windows lie beautiful bamboo floors, large mirrors and a roll up garage door for some extra air flow after the hot yoga class exits and the non-heat seeking yogis (like myself!) arrive.
I bought the 2 weeks intro package for $25, quite a steal!
They offer a nice variety, Hot Yoga, Vinyasa, Yin Yoga and Advanced Classes.
And as with most studios that offer hot yoga, there are showers!
**Update: Don't be late! If you are over 5 minutes late you aren't allowed to enter.
I love this studio space but I need a more flexible schedule (early bird classes) and I hate hot yoga so that throws a cramp in my daily schedule. -
Review from Tasha R.
Portland, OR
10/31/2010 1 Check-in Here
First off, let me just say this place is amazing. If you read nothing more of this review, just know that this is hands down, the most welcoming studio I have ever been to.
I went for the first time on Halloween. Their schedule online said they would be having a hot yoga class at 3:30 and I was hoping to find a studio in my new neighborhood that I could frequent just for that type of yoga.
When I showed up, I was greeted by the receptionist who was more than friendly and incredibly welcoming. She informed me, while I was filling out the waiver, that while normally hot yoga was offered regularly on Sundays, today was a special costumed class and that it would be a normal class as to not inhibit those who dressed up.
I will admit that I was disappointed, perhaps they could have posted something on the website schedule. I was really hoping for the intense workout that hot yoga provides. My tune, however, changed quickly. The woman left her post at the welcome desk to personally acquaint me with the facilities and showed me where I could set up once changed. I went into the studio (a very well lit, comfortable space with towels, tissues, at your disposal and blankets for those needing padding) set up my mat, and waited for the class to start.
As soon as everyone gathered, I knew I was going to have a unique experience. Everyone was full of energy and very sociable. It was clear toe that this was a community of people who all know and care for one another. The class was loose and fun. It was a step away from the usual snobbish yoga studios I have grown used to, and seemed to me to be a place where people actually enjoy the class and love what they do.
While it may have been a less than intense workout, the special Halloween class offered something more than I was looking for, it offered comfort. We worked on trust building exercises and pushed past our normal limits with partner exercises.
All in all this class was a ton of fun. I trust that the regularly scheduled classes will be just as welcoming and amazing as this one was. The mere fact that these people are so vivacious and willing to help out new comers and those with special needs have already spoken volumes about the mission of this studio. They can expect me as a long term regular from here on out. -
Review from Lisa R.
Boston, MA
7/27/2011
I can't say enough about my yoga experience at Yoga Union. I'm not a hard core yoga-er (fairly obvious with my use of the "word" yoga-er) and am here visiting Portland for the month. I was nervous that the studio might be a little too intense for me. I couldn't have been more wrong! Annie, Lyf, Todd and everyone else I met were amazing! I love how they talked us through the poses. Not only did I learn a hell of a lot about yoga and get a great workout but I actually found myself smiling throughout class. The vibe in class is comfortable and positive. And, Yoga Union is affordable.
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Review from Brian K.
11/15/2008
Nice studio! I was couch surfing in Portland and my host brought me here for a Vinyasa class. They have a 2-week unlimited new customer deal for $25, so of course I had to do that. Came back later to take a "core" class, which was also great.
The main studio is pretty big and has a nice floor. Reminds me a bit of a ballet studio (of course I've never been in one, ha), but that's ok. There are "locker rooms" which are in excellent condition - showers, towels available. Out front you can sit and relax with some tea and your yogie friends. Seems like a great neighborhood studio to make part of your life if you live in the area.
The have a good stock of mats, especially from Manduka (which is based in San Luis Obispo! that's where I'm from). Didn't see any clothes though, sans a studio top or two.
Instructors were good from my limited experience. During my core class, she was walking around doing some adjustments. And class sizes seemed manageable (not too big, not too small).
Four stars - I don't feel qualified to award a five star to anybody right now. ;) -
Review from Vanessa M.
Portland, OR
12/28/2009
I just can't say enough good stuff about this place. Everybody has a different yoga, and the Yoga Union family does an amazing job catering to the needs of each individual all the while providing a common ground and amazing sense of love and community.
The teachers are oh-so knowledgeable and approachable and bring amazing energy and kick-ass* classes. *Note: not necessarily ass-kickingly hard, but there's always a challenge (mental or physical) if you so choose to take one.
Clean, warm, yummy tea and a fun sitting room. Prices are competitive and they have a great intro special so you can try it out (and likely become addicted) before you commit to shelling out much cash. -
Review from Terra M.
Portland, OR
10/2/2009
I'd practiced yoga on-and-off for years, including several month-long immersions at studios here in Portland but...really...I never felt yoga was for me. I thought it'd be something I do to compliment other activities but I wasn't particularly moved by asana.
Then I went to Yoga Union and everything changed. I was hooked after my first class at YU. First, the staff was warm and welcoming, remembering my name after my initial visit. The space is lovely -- a cozy tea room, bamboo floor, lots of natural light with large changing rooms and showers. The teachers are, really, some of the best in town -- well-trained, fully dedicated and truly inspiring.
The hot classes are great, if you're looking to sweat up a storm. It's not Bikram - the teachers encourage you to pay attention to your body's needs, rest if you need to, etc. If heat isn't you're thing, there are loads of non-heated vinyasa/flow classes to create your own inner fire.
I've been practicing there for a while now and, from what I see, beginners are well-attended to. While yoga is very much an individual practice, Annie and Todd (and the other teachers) have created a community where everyone's presence is valued -- from the newest beginner to the most advanced yogi.
If you're considering yoga, please try Yoga Union. If you've been practicing for a while...come to YU and check it out. The teachers here have changed my life. -
Review from Beth N.
6/7/2010
i really love the variety of classes this studio offers. they have a class to suite my every mood. from hot yoga, to prana flow, yin and more.while i enjoy the calming and breathing aspects of yoga i personally like yoga to be a little more fast paced and a good work out. this studio is able to do that no problem. their hot yoga has a flow aspect to it which is really enjoyable and great for getting the heart pumping. i also appreciate the fact that they dont turn the heat up really, really high. it is really the perfect temperature in there. enough to make you sweat, but not enough to make you pass out.
you can really feel the community vibe here and i liked it that the instructors always introduced themselves to the new students. it felt very caring and personalized. they have a pose of the month which is pretty fun, and gives you something to work on throughout the month. the studio is spacious and has windows and mirrors at the back. very nice instructors and welcoming space, what more could you want? -
Review from nathan v.
Portland, OR
2/19/2009
I really liked Yoga Union. The space is large and clean, with great light and a welcoming energy. There are separate changing rooms for men and women with tons of room, and showers (I've been to dozens of yoga studios from NY to SF to Seattle, and that's a first). There's also a garage door on the back wall of the main studio, and they open it on sunny days - so nice! They have a $25 two week pass for newbies, and if you shop around, even for Portland it's a great deal. Yay for Yoga Union.
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Review from Elizabeth W.
Saint Paul, MN
3/20/2008
I hated yoga until I happened upon this place. Nice neighborhood feeling and I don't feel self-conscious about my inflexibility here - it's all about me and the mat. I have a favorite teacher, but I'm gonna keep that to myself, otherwise the class might end up too full when I go - sorry ya'll, you're gonna have to Utkatasana it out of me. Classes offered: Yin, Vinyasa, Hot, Hot Flow, Prana Vinyasa, Advanced Vinyasa and Yoga Basics Classes (which are free!!). Yin is great for relaxing after a stressful day of work. Vinyasa is great for revving up your metabolism, strength and endurance. I haven't tried out the other classes yet.
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Review from Nanielle T.
Portland, OR
4/2/2008
My boyfriend gave me a gift certificate for a month unlimited yoga at Yoga Union for Christmas. It had been a few years since I last attended a class. I love this place! The people are nice and so are the instructors. I feel very comfortable there. Some Yoga studios are a little too elitist for my liking but, Yoga Union gets the ol' thumbs up.
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Review from Georgina G.
Portland, OR
9/6/2009
This is a great yoga studio. The space is clean and wide. On days with good weather they have a big roll-up gate that they open for fresh air.
I like a bit of a more vigorous yoga class and this studio offers just that. They also have their "yin" class which consists of long, deep stretching.
In a yoga class, it's important for me to be given good, clear, verbal instructions and the instructors here do that.
They suck you in with the fantastic intro rate of $25 for 2 weeks, a great deal. -
Review from Teresa M.
Clackamas, OR
7/10/2010
Amazing space- delightful teachers- perfect yoga place for everyone. If you live nearby you have got to try this place
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Review from dan f.
Portland, OR
4/18/2011
A heart centered yoga studio, everyone has been very friendly and welcoming. Instructors know your name. Just a wonderful and welcoming atmosphere. Excellent variety of classes that challenge me to move and grow. Highly recommended.
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Review from Robin D.
Murphys, CA
7/16/2008
They recently put in a new bamboo floor - soft and pretty. Different styles 7 days a week. The instructors are good at what they do, down to earth, and friendly. It's very inviting and relaxed vibe. They offer free basics classes Sat. and Mondays to try 'em out... then when you try the variety of classes, you won't want to leave!
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Review from Amber B.
Portland, OR
1/17/2011
When I discovered Yoga Union i was looking for a Bikram studio close to my home in SE. They didnt offer Bikram but instead had a hot Vinyasa style class so i decided to try it out. They have tables up front for tea and relaxation. They also carry a few products that are high quality and fairly priced. The studio was beautiful and very clean. No carpet was a plus for me because im not a fan of the sinky, sweaty smell that ive had to endure in other "hot" studios. The class was wonderful but my favorite part was the instructor, Sara Lakey. She was probably the best instructor ive ever had, here and in Atlanta. Since I liked it so much I purchased a package and enjoyed it very much. Ive since moved so i havent been back. Recently i started looking for a studio close to home again. No luck! And to be honest, they really dont compare to Yoga Union. But as I was looking online to book a class I noticed the "hot" has been replaced by "hot flow" and Sara isnt teaching! Bummer. So my search continues.
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Review from Caroline B.
Portland, OR
10/11/2008
I've tried out a few different yoga studios in Portland over the years, and this is the one that I keep returning to. Nice big space with new bamboo flooring (they finally removed the carpet, yay), excellent set of teachers, and a nice variety of classes. They primarily offer hot yoga (although the room isn't super-heated, which is nice), vinyasa, yin yoga, and some core classes; some can be intense, and some are more relaxing, it really depends a lot on the instructor. They all encourage you to listen to your body and go at your own pace, and encourage people to do modifications as needed - so on the occasion that I'm just feeling beat in the middle of class and need to lie down for a few minutes, that's totally cool. Plus, if you do the monthly auto-pay, this studio seems to be a good deal cheaper than most in town for unlimited classes.
Occasional potlucks and workshops also make it a great community center! -
Review from Maureen M.
Portland, OR
1/9/2011
I just finished a month unlimited package at Yoga Union and had a great experience. The teachers are great, the space is nice and there is a good amount of variety in the types of class and the times offered!
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Review from Alana B.
Portland, OR
10/28/2010
Let's be honest, some yoga studios are a little too pleased with themselves. For instance, there is one in the Pearl where no one gave me a second glance after I paid, no one, not even the instructor when I tried to thank her for the class on the way out. Not the case at yoga union. The staff and instructors are all very welcoming and knowledgeable. They offer a variety of classes (including some hot yoga) that cater to different styles and personal wants/needs. The studio is down to earth and truly feels like it is community centered. I highly recommend giving this place a try whether you are brand new or have been practicing for years.
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Review from Anne M.
Portland, OR
4/27/2010
Very pleasant, down to earth yoga studio. I especially like the Unity Flow classes, which have a great combination of movement followed by yin stretching. The Core classes aren't all that core focused, but are still nice. The main thing I'd suggest is a fuller weekend schedule.
