The gym is boring, smelly and, worst of all, expensive as hell. In this city you can pay upwards of $130/month and find yourself running on the treadmill squeezed in between a straight ‘roid head clothed in a purple spandex suit and a chick in full-makeup who weighs as much as your left thigh. Because of this (no $), I have made the rounds through a variety of exercise regimes for the past 2 years: running the streets (too distracting/ hard on feet), boxing in the park (bartered training for headshots…fun but would be expensive), YMCA gym pass (Ewww!), and so on…This was until I discovered the wonderful world of Yoga. Thank you Bekim Trenova.
Yoga to the People is located on Saint Marks Place @ Cooper Square. It’s a little (a lot) overwhelming at first. You walk upstairs with a herd of NYU students named Brooke, kick off your shoes, and enter into a muggy cloud of sweat. This sounds horrible, yes, but it quickly passes. Once you’re on the mat, the hour is yours. I was a shy beginner just 5 months ago, but never felt lost. The space is full enough that you can make your mistakes without embarrassment, but small enough that the teacher will catch your errors and help if necessary. Now, several month later, fairly advanced in yoga technique, I still find the classes challenging. The style of Yoga here is Power Vinyasa Flow, which helps you work up a sweat, focus on breathing, balance, flexibility AND strength.
Yoga class has helped me both physically and emotionally. I am stronger, more flexible, and more centered–and have done it without spending outrageous amounts of money. Yoga to the People is supported by DONATION. This means you can pay anything. If you’re feeling frisky one day throw in a $20; but until then, pay what you can and find peace in New York City.
SIDE NOTE: Yoga cannot be your only form of exercise. Do not be fooled. Cardio is necessary to lose weight if this is your goal. I personally want to keep myself toned and solid…and get rid of that beer gut for summer. If you have a little extra cash, my friend gives a killer bootcamp in Central Park on Saturday mornings. Go to Mind Over Matter, NYC or ask me for more information.
BrooklynIngredients 