CorePower Yoga

I came to CorePower with the five-​week Groupon. Overall, I enjoyed it and thought the teachers were great. All my complaints have more to do with the way the CorePower company runs things rather than anything they could have done differently here.
The location is rough to get to during rush hour from pretty much every direction, but it’s great during off-​peak hours, since it’s located near a lot of major roads. It’s right across the street from the Mosaic District, so there’s plenty to do before/​after class. Parking is a breeze. It’s in an industrial-​ish strip mall, so there’s parking pretty much everywhere around the studio.
The facilities were beautiful and very well maintained. They have two yoga studios, so you’re sure to be able to find at least one class you want to do each day. It would be nice though, if they would stagger their times with the other CorePower studios in the area so people would have options. It seems like all the C2 classes in the area are at the same time.
I was about to say the facilities are really well-​equipped, but they actually had very few of the things I would want. As a person with a pretty regular work schedule who wants to do yoga after work, all I want from a yoga studio is free mat/​towel usage and yoga mat wipes, but CorePower didn’t include any of these things in the exorbitant price of classes. You have to pay for mat and towel rentals, which was really surprising considering how expensive this studio is. The one time I rented a mat, it was in really poor condition, peeling, falling apart, etc. They don’t provide wipes.
The locker rooms are beautiful and clean, and my main complaint there is that some of the students spend a really long time hogging the two toilet stalls to change rather than using the general locker room area, which can be really annoying when you have to wait to use the bathroom, but obviously this is not the studio’s fault.
I’ve been practicing yoga for a long time, but I figured I’d start with the C1 class. As expected, it was a little too basic for me, but it was still a decent workout. I went to several C2 classes with different instructors. None of the classes really felt like a full-​body workout. I sweat a lot more than usual, but only because the rooms are 90+ degrees. With about 5 minutes of warmup, 5 minutes of ab work, and 5 minutes of cooldown, there’s just not much time left in the rest of the hour to do everything I felt I needed for a full vinyasa practice. I usually felt like there wasn’t much time for backbends, arm balances, twists, or ways to advance my practice.
All the teachers were really nice, and I liked how no two classes were exactly the same. The instructors did the best they could with what were often enormous classes, but some classes were just too big for individual, hands-​on assistance. Again, I can’t blame the teachers for this, but if this studio is charging so much more than others in the area, it would be nice to have smaller classes or teaching assistants.
I’d consider joining this studio full-​time if it were closer to my home or work, but it’s just not worth the 30-​minute drive, especially when I preferred the locally-​owned Village Yoga just a few blocks away.

Even if you aren’t a yogi, I recommend CPY.
I am a huge fan. Beautiful, clean studios, amazing boutique, friendly staff, nice selection of classes, and open environment to the non-​yogis. I really hated yoga until I found Core Power. The infusion of welcoming/​knowledgable instructors and music make for wonderful experience.
This studio is the prettiest I’ve been to in the DC/​MD/​VA area. Also really big!
My favorite CPY class is Sculpt. It is like boot camp infused power yoga. Think burpees, push-​ups, etc. You will leave drenched in sweat and challenged. I really like the instructor Stephanie G. She has great energy, talks you through everything you do, and has fun playlists. She was motivating and welcome the entire class. I was so impressed by her knowledge and choreography throughout class. It truly «flow”-ed.
Shoutout to CPY and their membership options, too. Such a treat to be anywhere in the area or across the country and still be able to take class.

I have mixed feelings about CPY. Since the company is a national chain, you can find similar looking studios and classes across different locations. This location is pretty new with modern and clean facilities. Additionally, CPY offers a range of class styles and levels including Vinyasa style flow, yoga with weights and Hot Power Fusion, which resembles the Bikram style sequence. This is great for those who like to mix it up.
I tried the C2 class which was supposed to be intermediate style Vinyasa heated at about 95 degrees. I liked the subtle music and appreciated the fact that the instructor asked for permission to give adjustments at the beginning of class. Though she barely gave any adjustments. She incorporated a variety of postures, including core work, ensuring a balance of muscle groups.
Maybe I came in with higher expectations, but I was a little disappointed. I felt like the
routine was too structured and the class wasn’t personalized. I also feel like the main reason why they say this class isn’t for beginners is because the instructor doesn’t stand at the front of the room demonstrating postures. Therefore, you need a firm grasp on how to do the poses. Nonetheless, the instructor did a great job explaining each pose, but the pace was of the class was a little too slow. I didn’t think the sequences were difficult, but there were moments of challenge here and there… or maybe it’s because I was sore.

I got suckered into the free two week trial – and I couldn’t be happier. After two months, I’m addicted to these classes. The facility is clean, there’s ample parking, the staff is awesome. I love the positive energy and enthusiasm. And I have seen clear results from these classes, too. I highly recommend giving it a try.

It’s been a little over a month since I signed up for CorePower Yoga and the sole reason was to attend the sculpt classes they offer which incorporates weights to the yoga. I’ve been wanting to add strength training for awhile now and the fact that they also put emphasis on core work is a winning combo. I consider myself to be pretty fit (run regularly and practice bikram) so when I signed up for my first sculpt class (used the 1 week free trial pass they offer) I went in there a bit skeptical thinking how much of a work out is this going to be. So… I was wrong. I left the class in SWEAT, arms being sore and thighs on fire. What da what?! I’m not sure what prompted me to want to go back after leaving the class sore but I did which eventually led me to sign up as black tag member (unlimited access to classes anywhere in the US along w/​minor discount benefits on clothing. etc). Consistency with my work outs is something I usually strive for and I can confidently say that the instructors that make me push the extra mile or add different sequences to their routines (each instructor has their own routine) is Monica, Ahmed, and Kaitlyn. All three have made me grit through my teeth during the class silently screaming to myself, F*$*%?!! All of the instructors I have come across are extremely friendly and make you sweat but I really appreciate when instructors change it up either with their playlist or routines.
I’ve also tried their Hot Power Fusion class which is supposed to be the closest to bikram yoga but to be honest, it didn’t feel the same. When I go to my bikram classes, it’s a bit more intense and the poses are done twice (along with higher temps) and the HP class is the low key version to it.
The parking lot is a bit small as it is shared with two other small businesses but with that said, I’ve never had a problem finding space.
If you want to work your core, butt, and arms I would highly recommend you attending the sculpt classes. Take advantage of the 1 week free trial pass they offer at all the locations to see if it’s a fit for you before signing up since membership is pricey ($ 155 a month for Black Tag Membership).

I went for a free yoga event offered by my running group. The staff was very welcoming and gave a brief tour of the facility. The yoga instructor was the most helpful yoga instructor I ever had. She would help you if you wanted to achieve the correct form. She also had a way with words to help make you think if you are in the correct form or not. As of before this yoga class I realized I never had a good instructor.
The only thing I can honestly complain about was the lack of parking. It gets busy and it was hard to get a good spot. No worries I found one but others seemed to not know how to park their big SUVs within in the line. This of course is customer error and not the yoga studio.

I’m still on my free week trial for CorePowerYoga and I’m really impressed. First of all, they keep their studio clean and tidy, and they put a lot of detail into their interiors which of course is appreciated when you’re trying to find some zen. Also love that you can acquire some yogi gear at the shop. Ambiance wise, there’s a modern chic vibe.
As for the classes, I’ve only done yoga with weights and the beginner power yoga class, which I really really enjoyed. Jill provided great cues which made me reevaluate the actual flow of my practice and felt more confident about taking the more challenging options for the various positions. Students keep to themselves but there is a calm and uplifting energy in the studio. I’m really considering practicing in this location.

I am a fitness junkie by the definition. However, by no means have I ever been into yoga… Probably because I can’t sit still and chill for longer than 4.5 seconds. Enough about my attention issues, this place is the real deal. My BFF Annie K. gave me a free 2 week pass and I went to virtually all the classes they had available. From beginner yoga (C1), to heated power yoga, to intense yoga sculpt, etc., I very much enjoyed my experiences here. The 60 minute classes take place in one of two heated rooms, which are not as hot as bikram, but the temperatures vary with each class.
The instructors are super friendly, motivating, and helpful. They not only demonstrate the different positions, but they workout with you. The instructors may vary on level of difficulty and poses so it’s never the same old thing each time, which is pretty awesome! The dressing rooms are clean and they provide toiletries for your convenience. Additionally, they sell yoga gear, water, towel rentals, mats, etc. at the front.
They offer free classes every so often as they have training sessions for the instructors which I definitely take advantage of. I personally am more into my own workouts/​strength training so this place is a bit pricey for me to maintain a full membership, granted that I wouldn’t be going every day. But for all you yogis out there looking to try something new and well-​rounded, this place is the perfect all-​in-​one establishment!
FYI: There multiple locations: Fairfax, Clarendon, etc. Be sure to check their webpage for location & class times!

Clean facility and studio has plenty of space. I have only taken the yoga sculpt class with Olivia. She is a great Instructor; lots of energy and very welcoming.
Yoga sculpt class is a full body workout. Weights are incorporated into the workout.

I took two free C1 classes here during DC Yoga week and then three more on the free 7-​day pass they give you to try the studio out. I have taken a handful of yoga classes before and they were either crappy boring classes offered at a big box gym or rather intense beginner courses at hard core studios – the former being not challenging enough and the later being too hard for me as a novice. The C1 classes here have been perfect for me. The format is easy to follow but the class is challenging enough to work up a robust sweat and feel really good afterwards. Each teacher has their own unique style but the flow is basically the same each class, so you can kind of see your improvement with each practice. The only inversion they do is crow and they don’t push it too much so I appreciate that. Finally, the physical space is new and clean making it a welcoming place for classes.

I’ve found my second home.
I have so many positive things to say about CorePower Yoga! I haven’t been to any other locations because this one is the closest to home, but I’m sure that all of the other locations are just as awesome. I came here on their Groupon deal and I’ll definitely be continuing as a Black Tag member. It may seem pricey ($ 84 for the first month and $ 155 after that, and they also offer a discounted rate for students). I always had «phases» when it came to working out, but I’ve finally found a workout that I enjoy and look forward going to on a regular basis.
+ They offer a week of unlimited classes to new students for FREE!
+ The instructors always ask for your permission in the beginning of class if you would like hands-​on instruction during your practice.
+ All of the instructors I’ve practiced with are friendly and always give off positive vibes. They also make the effort to get to know your name and provide encouragement throughout classes!
+ Their facilities are clean, modern, and full of «zen.» They have couches to sit on outside of the studios as well.
+ Their bathrooms have hand soap, mouthwash, lotion, deodorant, and feminine products! I haven’t used their showers yet, but those also look super clean!
+ They have open cubbies as well as lockers (you have to bring your own lock).
+ If you forget your yoga mat and/​or towel, they’re available for rent ($ 2 for mat, $ 1 for towels).
+ They have a huge collection of yoga gear (clothing, mats, accessories, etc.) in the front for purchase. There’s also a great assortment on their sale rack.
+ There’s mat cleaner and air fresheners available inside the yoga studios for you to use after class.
+ They incorporate a core workout in every yoga class (hence their name) which I love!
If you’re new to hot yoga or need a refresher, I would recommend taking CP1 first. The room is set to around 85 degrees and you go through the poses slowly. Hot Power Fusion is a mix of flow and bikram poses (if you’ve ever done bikram, you will find that the poses are the same or similar) and is set in a hot room (approximately 105 degrees). Core Sculpt is a mix of high intensity cardio, weight training, and yoga all in once. CP2 is more intermediate class with a mix of beginner to intermediate to advanced postures (you can take the posture however you feel comfortable) and it set to around 95 degrees. All classes are set to music, which is awesome because you’re not working in complete silence. I love the music selection for Sculpt (a mix of EDM, hiphop, and pop music) because it motivates you to work harder in class!
The studio is located next to the Public Storage across from the Mosaic District and Merrifield USPS.
Namaste!

At the time that I am writing this review, CorePower Yoga is offering a free week of unlimited classes to new students (
). I took advantage of this offer and visited their studios in Falls Church and Merrifield, Virginia. Both studios are beautiful, featuring modern yet «zen» décor, hard wood floors, and plush couches near automatic fireplaces. The bathrooms are comparable to that of a high-​end spa and include lockers (locks not provided), showers, and complimentary deodorant, mouthwash, and body lotion. Both studios also sell top-​quality yoga products, such as attire from Alo Yoga and yoga mats from Manduka. Yoga mats and towels are available to rent for only a few dollars, and bottled water is for sale.
FALLS CHURCH
The first class that I attended was at the Falls Church studio. Free parking is provided in the retail parking garage to the right of Sweet Frog. The yoga studio itself is to the right of Mad Fox Brewing Company (if you are facing the shopping center). I attended the «Sculpt» class, which is hot yoga with weights. Holy cow, that class was intense! «Sculpt» offered a workout boot camp vibe, with rapid transitions between poses as they are called out by the instructor, Jessica. I attend weightlifting classes on a weekly basis, but since this class was heated, even five-​pound weights became a struggle. Jessica kept us engaged by calling out the number 8 during reps, and if we did not instantly respond by counting down from 7, she would add more reps! I was truly humbled by how challenging this class was, and I love that CorePower Yoga offers a class with weights as they are so effective in building muscle definition.
MERRIFIELD
The next two classes I attended were at the Merrifield studio. Parking is right in front of the studio, which is nice. I took «CorePower Yoga 1» («C1»), which is a beginner class. Unlike the more advanced classes, the room was not heated for this class. However, the room was still relatively hot from the last heated class — probably about 85 degrees. Even though it was a beginner class, the moves were still challenging and the transitions were fairly quick. I think the most advanced move that we did in this class was crow pose. I had Samantha for an instructor, and she was absolutely fabulous! As is true for all CorePower Yoga classes, Samantha offered everyone hands-​on correction as we moved into the various poses (more on that later). However, she also gave us neck and scalp massages during some of the stretches and relaxation at the end! I usually don’t stay for the relaxation portion of most yoga classes, but if I knew that I had a scalp massage to look forward to, I would stay every time! It was marvelous.
The next night, I attended «CorePower Yoga 2» («C2»). The main differences that I noticed between this and «C1» was that the room was heated and that the poses required a little more strength. I have NEVER sweat as much in a workout class as I did in this one. It was wonderful! If I were to get a membership, this would probably be my go-​to class. Kim was my instructor, and she was great!
Overall, I had positive experiences and would recommend either studio to any of my yogi friends. The only drawback is the price. A single class is $ 23, and the monthly membership charge is $ 155 (the first month is $ 84, but then they go up after that). That is simply too much for me. I heard they have a Groupon available that I may look into.
TIPS
–Bring water and a towel to dry off! You will sweat so much that a towel is a must to keep from sliding all over the place. I also recommend wearing yoga tights over shorts or capris. I wore capris to the «C1» and «C2» classes, and I was sweating so much that I couldn’t hold crow pose without my legs slipping off my arms (I also neglected to bring a towel –lesson learned!).
–At the beginning of each class, you will probably start in child’s pose, and the instructor will ask everyone to raise a hand if they do not want hands-​on correction throughout the class. I love the correction option so I never raised my hand, but for those of you who are less comfortable with being touched, you have an option.
–If you are new to hot yoga, I recommend starting with the «C1» class and then going from there. I typically workout in a room that is between 68 and 72 degrees, so just increasing to 85 degrees was intense. I made the mistake of starting with the «Sculpt» class, and the 105-​degree room on top of an already challenging class was quite a shock to my body.
I hope you can learn from my experience and enjoy these fabulous yoga studios. Namaste!

I just took a class with Stephanie. She is absolutely lovely! I had never been to core power but what a great first impression. I showed up and was the only one in the class. I thought there was no way she would hold the class. Absolutely not! She practiced with me, made gentle but much needed corrections and allowed me to be in my own yoga moment! I can’t wait to go back! Namaste