Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Who can do yoga?
- A: Anyone and everyone. Each student has their own unique mixture of flexibility, balance and strength. Yoga is non-competitive. Each student follows their own individual path. You don't have to be able to touch your toes or stand on one leg to get started on your path.
- Q: Which class is best for me?
A: Yoga 1 classes include sun salutations and a mixture of standing and seated postures that increase strength, flexibility, and balance. These classes are ideal for the student who is new to yoga and that is in good health.
Ashtanga yoga classes include many of these same standing and seated postures and their benefits, but these fast-paced classes also provide an effective cardiovascular workout. Athletes gravitate to this vigorous yoga tradition.
Gentle yoga classes are recommended for students who are recovering from injury or illness. They are also perfect for the new student who would like a slower-paced class that emphasizes stretching, breathing and relaxation.
- Q: Can I just show up?
- A: Yep! Our classes are ongoing; you do not need to register in advance and can begin attending classes at any time. Just arrive 10-15 minutes prior to the beginning of class to sign-in, pay and grab a mat if you need one.
- Q: What should I bring?
- A: Just a smile! There are mats available for students' use at the school (at no charge).
- Q: What should I wear?
- A: Wear comfortable clothes that allow full range of movement. Most students wear shorts, sweat pants, or cute yoga pants and a t-shirt or tank top.
- Q: Is parking available?
A: There is a free parking lot at the Strip District location.
The Squirrel Hill location has on-street and meter parking.
- Q: How much are classes?
- A: A single class costs $15. You can purchase a four-class card for $50, an eight-class card for $80 or a twelve-class card for $100. You can use these cards to take any classes you choose at any one location. They are valid for up to six months from the purchase date.
- Q: What type of payment do you accept?
A: We accept cash, checks and all major credit cards at the door.
Classes and workshops may also be ordered securely on our website using Visa, Discover, MasterCard and American Express. Order class card online
- Q: What is your refund policy?
- A: There are no refunds on class cards. However, we can extend the expiration date.
- Q: Can I use a card at both locations?
- A: If you would like to attend classes at both schools, you will need to have a separate card at each school.
If you like, you can purchase a card online and we can split it. For example, if you purchase an eight class card we can put a four class card at each location. That way you can still benefit from the discount you get when you buy classes in bulk!
- Q: How often should I attend classes?
- A: We suggest beginning with one or two classes a week. You may want to sample different classes to determine which one fits your needs best. Don't be surprised to discover that over time you want to practice more frequently!
- Q: Will yoga conflict with my religion?
- A: Yoga is not a religion. Students of all faiths attend classes at the Schoolhouse.
- Q: Do you offer private lessons?
- A: Yes, the fee is $65/hour at the studio.
- Q: Do you offer a teacher certification program?
- A: Please contact Joanne Vandenhengel at Yoga Alliance Yoga Teacher Certification
- Q: How far along in my pregnancy should I be before I begin attending the prenatal yoga classes?
- A: You may begin attending the prenatal yoga classes at any point in your pregnancy. If you have any special health concerns, talk with you doctor prior to attending class. Our prenatal yoga classes are designed to be safe, gentle and beneficial.
They are a low-impact way to stay in shape and prepare mentally and physically for labor.
- Q: How old should my baby be before he/she attends the Mommy & me class?
- A: Your baby is welcome to attend the Mommy & me class at any age. Newborns are welcome too! As long as you, the mom, feel ready to stretch and get back in shape, then you and your child will both be fine in the class!
- Q: Will yoga help me to lose weight?
A: Yoga is a unique form of exercise that challenges your entire body. Students are often surprised how well they sleep the night following their first class and how toned they become over time.
But more important than the physical exercise it provides, yoga teaches you to listen to your body and deal with the emotions that contribute to over-eating and other unhealthy habits.
- Q: Do you heat your classrooms to a high temperature?
- A: We keep our classrooms at a comfortable temperature. If you like to sweat, we recommend attending the Ashtanga Yoga classes - we don't need to heat the room to a high temperature to make you sweat!
- Q: Where can I stay?
A: Hampton Inn: 412-288-4350
Omni Hotel: 412-281-7100
Doubletree: 412-281-5800
Westin: 412-281-3700
Hilton Hotel: 412-391-4600
Renaissance: 412-562-1200
Marriot Courtyard: 412-434-5551
Please don't hesitate to call with any other questions!
