Many great teachers on all levels. I have been practicing yoga at Unity Woods for about 7 years now. As I have aged, and life experiences have changed I have still found appropriate classes at Unity Woods. Although the switch to online was difficult at first it appears to me that most instructors have managed to integrate feedback on screen elegantly. I highly recommend this studio for all levels of yoga and urge anyone who has never worked with Iyengar to give it a try here. read more

Practicing Iyengar yoga with Unity Woods has transformed my life. I am very grateful for all of the teachers I have studied with at Unity Woods. read more

I have been attending classes at Unity Woods for 20+ years, and I've never had a bad teacher. The classes are thoughtful and engaging, and the community is fantastic. I now mostly take classes with John (the founder) and Joe, and both are wonderful. Even in the world of Zoom yoga, they connect with students and teach Iyengar yoga like nowhere else. John can teach poses to 20+ students online and you still feel like you are being attended to personally. Joe is gentle and encouraging, but pushes you quietly to the next level. Overall, there is nothing else like Unity Woods! read more

My mother has done yoga since the 70s, and she was who got me going to this place. Unity Woods is nationally-renowned. This is for the study of an authentic yoga form (Iyengar) from real teachers (many of whom have trained at the Iyengar ashram in Pune, India). This is not trendy yoga. This is not hot/Bikram (bullshit) yoga. This is not "Power" (bullshit) yoga. This is not yoga to music (bullshit) yoga. This is not a place to show off your Lulemon purchases. These are not some aerobics teachers that took a weekend training and now consider themselves "yoga teachers." This is for the serious study of yoga by a studio who has been doing this long before Madonna and the masses. Try the difference. read more

I've heard some people complain that Unity Woods is too intense, as in, serious about yoga. Well, I can't disagree with that. Unity Woods is a full-on Iyengar studio, and I think most of the instructors I've had there have studied in India at some point. But don't you actually want real yoga, and not fake, trendy, do-it-in-a-mall yoga? Of course you do. At Unity Woods you are encouraged to be serious about yoga, but the main concern is that you not disrupt any one else's efforts. Yoga has become so popular that I've seen yoga studios pop up all over town. I've even tried a few, and it's not that they aren't real, it's just, I don't know, they seem to have hopped onto the hot yoga bandwagon. It's aerobics with a slight Hindu bent. I prefer Unity Woods with its consistent Iyengar approach -- its classes are full of a wide range of body types and abilities. Just call me a yoga snob. That's right, I'm the least flexible, most stressed-out yoga snob there is. read more

First off, I have only been to one class at Unity Woods so take my review with a grain of salt. I have been practicing all kinds of yoga for awhile and this was my first experience with the Iyengar style. It emphasizes holding postures for longer amounts of time and proper alignment as opposed to the faster, more flowing vinyasa practice that most studios teach. I went to a free beginner class that they were offering this week (they do this once every few months for new students.) Maybe it was because it was a beginner class, but I found it pretty slow and not very challenging. Granted, this could be a really great class for someone brand new to yoga. I also found the class lacking in the spiritual sense and focusing more on the fine detail of alignment. I think alignment is very important and often neglected in many yoga studios, yet another reason UW is good for beginners. Another reason UW doesn't work for me is that their classes are by enrollment in a series, so you pay a set price up front for a whole class that meets at a regular time. I like to go to yoga when I feel like it and go to different teachers. I also wasn't the biggest fan of the space; it felt a little like being in a elementary school classroom. All that being said, you might really like Unity Woods and I would not discourage beginners from starting their yoga practice here. Just keep in mind that if you don't like it, try another yoga style or studio because this one if pretty different from most of the studios in town. read more

I did not discover yoga until I was in my 50's, but I was extremely glad I started at Unity Woods. They opened up a whole new world to me with their approach to yoga, which incorporates not just the exercise but the philosophy. I am now in much better shape than most my peers because Unity Woods got my hooked on their classes. The excellence of their teachers made me a dedicated practitioner because they are such amazing people; I always look forward to class. The Iyengar school of yoga taught here is one of the most widely and internationally accepted, so no fads or gimmicks, and no gym-rat versions - just the real deal. My only regret is that I didn't discover Unity Woods sooner. read more

Unity Woods is the best yoga studio in the area. The studio is focused on Iyengar yoga, which is an alignment focused style. All instructors are certified Iyengar teachers, which means they studied Yoga for years and are highly skilled (no quick-and-dirty 200h Yoga alliance registration after 6months of Yoga in this lineage...). I went to classes with several instructors, I believe it really comes down to personal preferences which instructor one prefers, technically all classes I attended were excellent. As to the classes, poses in Iyengar yoga are typically held for longer time than in flow, vinyasa, or Ashtanga yoga. I found that this slow-paced approach greatly supports proper learning of the pose, as there is time to adjust and align it. Also, it is a feature of Iyengar yoga that props are used to enable students to safely perform a pose which is exceedingly useful for anybody who has injuries, is stiff, etc. In contrast to many other studios, this studio has a no-frills, no-music, no-incense, no-coming late and leaving early, no-phone in class approach which really enables one to practice and learn without distractions. Unity Woods does encourage students to practice at home, and the teaching is thorough enough for students to work on their own. That said, I find the knowledge I got at Unity Woods useful not only for my home practice, but also whenever I go to other studios - it's like having a good technical foundation and a skill set at hand that make most other styles more accessible (plus would be invaluable should I have to continue practicing without a yoga teacher close by). So, at Unity Woods the instructors teach, rather than lead a practice. read more

This place is schizo. Instructors are night and day. This was my first experience with a yoga studio and I started out with Joe A. He's an amazing teacher: really clear instructions, assists, and with a wry sense of humor. He also gave me great modifications for my weirdo inflexible body. But then- there are the instructors who will talk off in random tangents. I remember Guilia telling us about her family's disapproval of her career path back in the 70's etc etc. while we were in a warrior 2 pose for about 5 minutes. She was also telling us about "correct" yoga and "incorrect" yoga. wtf??? And once I attended a restorative class with Rocky and and as I'm setting up a blanket she runs over with a raised voice saying "NO NO NO. You are folding it all wrong." So I'm a blanket dumbass, but dude, scolding students in a restorative class.... ? Iyengar yoga is perfect for yoga newbies- it teaches you correct alignment, and allows you stay in poses and really feel them in your body. Much more difficult to do so if you throw yourself into flow or vinyasa class. So try them out. Just go to Joe. Also- several times a year they offer free classes at their 3 studios (woodley, arlington and bethesda)- take advantage to find a teacher that jives with you. read more

I was inspired to try this because of a Groupon...and I loved it! I am not a fan of Bikram (hot yoga) and of places like Down Dog Yoga/Lululemon etc. (trendy, but don't teach you anything). From the moment I walked in, the experience was different. The class size was manageable (10 at most) and everyone got one on one attention from the instructor. While I wasn't a regular to the class, I could tell there was a strong bond of trust and even friendship between the instructors and the yogis attending class. This made the atmosphere so positive and calming. I would go back and I have recommended this to all my friends. Finally, after 3 years in DC, I've found my yoga studio! read more

I purchased a set of class passes to Unity Woods through Groupon. I wish I had known that Unity Woods runs their yoga classes like semester college courses. While this system has its advantages, it is not ideal for a person whose aim is to drop in from time to time. I attended a session of the Yoga Meditation class, and the first 45 minutes was spent addressing questions from prior classes. The class seems like a great idea, but only if you can commit to the semester. I took other classes with Joe, Giulia and Lori and found their acidic humor inappropriate for a space that's supposed to encourage students to try new things. I was particularly offended by Joe who made fun of one of my classmates for asking a question about posture. While I understand that yoga isn't about the space, the basement studio is gloomy. Furthermore, the teachers don't shut the door during the classes, which is distracting. read more

This studio is the Real Deal. Iyengar is a strict form of yoga that will provide a strong foundation that can be applied to all forms of yoga. It's focus on alignment can be particularly helpful for those with sports injuries (or other injuries), and the extensive use of props makes it available for all-ages, and for all levels of physical fitness. I repeat: *all levels*. The practice is not an athletic practice like some flow, but I find it very challenging. The space at Woodley Park is not very beautiful, and there is no boutique attached to it-as another reviewer put it, you're not there for shopping. This is old-school yoga, and instructors here have been teaching for decades. The process of teacher certification in Iyengar is very long and disciplined, producing teachers who understand the minutiae of the human body, and who can unlock potential you never knew you had. Oh, and you may find a few of your Vinyasa instructors taking classes here! read more

Let me start off by saying that I give this studio one star as opposed to two because of its misleading marketing more so than it's ineptness. I consider myself an amateur yogi - I've practiced semi-regularly in spurts on and off for 5 years in a variety of cities, settings and styles. While I cannot seem to stick it out long enough or achieve the perfect shoulderstand, I do think I continue with yoga for all of the right reasons: to achieve balance in my mind and body in a non-judgmental, calming setting. The ying to my long distance running's yang. Being new to the area, I stumble upon this fine establishment and while the website was a little jarring, the classes seemed right up my alley. So off I go, friend in tow, one mellow Sunday. Let's just say that "mellow" is an understatement for our experience. I respect the other reviewers that tout this studio's grassroots style and "back to basics" principles however this truly was the biggest waste of $20. I felt judged by the teacher the minute I stepped in there, solely for being about 20 years junior to all the other attendees. Then they do roll-call; furthering your "interloper" status. The 75 minute class goes through approximately 7 poses in total, and I can only liken it to my first ballet class at the age of 3.... "Point your toes to the right. See how that feels? Ok good, you can stop now. Get a drink of water and rest." I do not mean to be disrespectful but considering the high cost of a drop-in class (which I imagine many first-timers would opt to do - right after they check Yelp of course), I think it only fair to communicate to your clients exactly the type of service you are providing for their $20. Call it like it is - we are a slow-paced, very basic, gentle, step-by-step style of yoga. Had I seen that one sentence somewhere on their website, class descriptions, studio walls or Yelp reviews I would have mostly definitely lingered at brunch for the 75 wasted minutes I spent in this class and taken my $20 elsewhere. read more

When I moved to DC, Yoga Journal pointed me to Unity Woods for Iyengar yoga. The instructors are top notch! They all have extensive training and most have also done training in India (Iyengar certification takes like 5 years!). I primarily take with Liz Marx, but have done drop ins with other instructors and found them all to be extremely competent. Of course, taking classes with founder, John Schumacher, is amazing (he primarily teaches up in Bethesda). There are tons of yoga options in DC, but Unity Woods is different because it sticks to Iyengar's method. This means there won't be much, if any flow. Instructors will point you to props to help make poses more attainable - or as learning tools to get you that much closer to advanced poses. Poses are held for a long time and instructors will point out the internal workings of the muscles and joints. If you're serious about yoga - and advancing your practice - sign up for a session at Unity Woods. Oh, and if you live in the area, you can't beat the $5 community class on Fridays! read more

This studio and this certain discipline of yoga can be summed up in one sentence: If you are 100% serious about learning yoga, and I mean really learning, and studying the ancient practice, there is only one studio is the D.C. area to attend- Unity Woods. You may know triangle pose, but do you know Utthita Trikonasana? Unity is not an Americanized version of the ancient practice. The Woodley park studio is certainly no frills, but do you really want fluff with your yoga? This studio is for those who are open to the experience and process of learning. Yes, one must make the commitment at the beginning of the session. When you do the math, the rates per class are competitive with many of the popular studios in the area. Yet what you get at Unity are rigorously trained yogis, who are dedicated to teaching the Iyengar method. John Schumacher and his staff are among the forefront in Iyengar instruction. You are learning from the best in the area, and in the country. I have studied at Unity nearly three years- and I am still considered an "infant" in my practice. I am honored to be a part of Liz Marx's Monday night class at Woodley, to be practicing along side people who have been doing this for decades. Don't be surprised if you see a teacher at another yoga studio taking classes at Unity. Some will say that the Iyengar teachers are critical, knit-picky, and too focused on the precise and subtle movements of the body. I would say that they challenge you to reflect, offer your spirit, and your personal service to your body through the best expression of the asana you can do. Unity is a humbling studio, yet fear not! We fall down, we smile, and get back up (on the mat) again. Isnt that life- and one's yoga practice? One cannot just throw oneself haphazardly into life and expect success, nor can it be in yoga. You must be humbled (know and accept your weaknesses) before you can be exalted. If you are someone with previous yoga experience, be patient. Like any journey, begin at the beginning. You will move steadily through the levels, as I did. I highly recommend this studio for anyone who is sincere in their desire to learn yoga. Yeah, we're a different and exacting bunch, but our quirks are quickly addicting! read more

I had a groupon for this place and went to a Yoga I class with Cynthia because I had a groupon. It was one class. Blah. Waste of money honestly. The space is really big with huge columns in the middle so you can't see the instructor at times. Annoying. Plus there were TONS of people in this "introductory" class. Cynthia talked NONSTOP and explained the principles of yoga. Yadiyadiya. Look lady if I wanted to take a theory of yoga class, I would but this is a class where you are supposed to actually practice yoga. She showed some really basic moves and talked some more and that's it. Class over. Worse. Yoga. Class. Ever. I sweated more walking to that studio than during the class. The Ballston studio is not that much better. Iyengar is not for me at all. read more

Had a wonderful time at Unity during the Yelp Fitness Event. This was my first time at Unity Woods Yoga Center. Unity is located on the top floor of The Triangle apartment building in the heart of Bethesda. Sounds weird, but the space is great...its quiet with a great view of Bethesda. The instructor was really great for us that weren't super experienced in Hatha...even teaching us how to correctly pronounce Hatha. Loved the class. I will definitely return to Unity read more

If you hate flow and love tedious teaching and painfully slow yoga, this is the place for you.

Some of the reviews on here have just blown my mind (albeit only a few.) There are so many different styles of yoga to practice and Iyengar is extremely specific and traditional compared to the more popular and widely practiced styles. It hurts my heart to see that other "yogis" would ever say such hateful things. If this style is not for you, simply don't practice it. I however LOVE this practice. I love the blissful quiet and focused state of mind it brings. I love how you learn your body from head to pinky toe. I love the use of props to make all poses accessible to all persons, and sometimes even to enhance poses in new ways. I've had nothing but great experiences at this studio. As a teacher and an Iyengar yogi I had to butt in for a second with a little defense. It's not for everyone and that's okay. We don't hate on vinyasa, or ashtanga, or power yoga. That's not the spirit of yoga I'm sorry. read more

If you all have read my other yoga studio reviews, you've seen my caveat, what I hope to get from a yoga class, and what I think is so darned difficult to find. You know I have an alignment fetish, think bootcamp yoga is an oxymoron, and am downright perplexed that there is no meditation taught in yoga classes. In reviewing studios, I allow the third of these to slide. After all, we are going to class to practice yogasana. If you get a pranayama piece, then awesome. And if you the teacher gives you a few moments to practice concentration or even several for meditation, then even better. Mostly, however, what we need to do is find a yoga studio that offers all three, along with workshops on yoga philosophy and spiritual teachings, even if they're not integrated into one class. Welcome to Unity Woods, fellow Yelpers...your Iyengar Yoga experience awaits. OK, so be forewarned...this is some serious yoga. There is very little flowery language that is being used to psychologically trick you into believing that throwing yourself in and out of a misaligned virabhadrasana I while pouring buckets of sweat onto your mat is going to give you physical and energetic benefits that border on ecstatic bliss. That said, practicing Iyengar Yoga regularly - and I mean more than an occasional drop-in - will transform the way you experience yoga, even if you do have a more flow-influenced yogasana practice. True Story - I dabbled in Iyengar in the late 90s, early 2000/2001, but I thought it was energetically stagnant. Later, I found myself in Kundalini Yoga, and then finally to Anusara. Then I went to a 3-1/2 week Iyengar Intensive in India, where, despite having 13 years of yoga under my belt, I was one of the least experienced there, at least because of the methods I had studied. That experience changed my life. The energy shifts in Iyengar, and the physical healing, are sometimes subtle, and other times profound. But what I came away with was a deeper understanding of yoga, my body, and the way that even the more esoteric philosophical teachings are even represented in the asana practice. Unity Woods Yoga is Iyengar Yoga in the Washington, DC metro area. Some of the best Anusara teachers in town have also studied under John Schumacher, the studio's renowned founder and owner. Although most of their locations are outside of the DC proper, there is one small location in Woodley Park (note - compared to other DC yoga studios, the practice space is enormous). They provide props galore, an Iyengar trademark (you will know more ways to experience postures with blankets, blocks, straps, washcloths, ropes...), as well as an amazing ropes wall (experience the release as gravity works the body in rope sirsasana). The other locations are Arlington, Bethesda, and a few classes in Tenleytown. The Bethesda location has 2 studios, also very nice, but I've never been to the other locations. Unity Woods sells a number of yoga tools and sundries, including some great books, John's guided practice and meditation CDs, some chanting tapes, asana sequence guides, props, and some clothing items. Overall, however, it's abundantly clear that if you come to class at Unity Woods, you're coming to practice, not shop. Even if you have practiced other types of yoga before, I don't recommend starting in a class above level II (if you have a strong Anusara background, you can perhaps do a II/III). Don't worry, you'll still be doing sirsana (headstand) and adho mukha vrksasana (handstand) all the time. Just give yourself some time to experience the practice and the Iyengar style. As always, you will need to find a teacher whose energy and style resonate with you. I have taken class with Carol, Mary, and Liz. Carol I found intensely boring. I tried to like her class, and I'm sure that it's great for some people, but not for me. Mary, on the other hand, has a great personality, and she is a wonderful teacher. But Liz is my asana guru. She is nothing short of amazing. She actually has a bit of a following, but for good reason. Her sequencing, humor, and personality make every class a phenomenal experience. Even when I decide to go to the earlier level II instead of the later level III on Monday nights, I find the class complete, challenging, and inspiring. Unity Woods offers classes from gentle through advanced, and a number of workshops that cover all aspects of yoga, from advanced asana practice to yogic teachings, philosophy, and ayurveda. Pranayama is also taught at Unity Woods as a separate class. Unfortunately, you must register for it separately, but the Iyengar approach to pranayama is much more comprehensive than doing some long deep breaths and 5 minutes of digital pranayama. I just wish they offered a meditation class, even a sitting group, once or twice a week. Oh, well, if you want that, I guess you can always check out the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, DC - another DC treasure! read more

For 5 years now I've been practicing Yoga. Thanks to the ladies at work who dragged me into trying my first class!! From then, I'm hooked. I love Yoga and practice everyday. And I've been faithfully to only ONE teacher, Linda Howard of http://www.easingintoyoga.com/hatton.html b/c she is super sweet and a wonderful teacher. UNTIL one day she said "I want you to take class with my teacher. He is the best Iyengar Yoga in the whole nation..." I was like "...It's impossible for me...I work 10 hours a day, with long comute to work already...I dun think I'll be able to make it to class regularly if I learn from him..." while imagining it would be so exhausting even if I manage to drag myself to the Bethesda studio... BUT she kept insisting, so - I took leave from work one day to get there to try level I with John Schumacher...thinking I would do that ONE TIME to please her...dredding the driving during traffic jam approaching the Spur... AND OMG - He is all of what she said he is and more!!! I used to have pain with my Right arm and Right hamstring. The more Yoga I practiced, the more intense it got. My 1st day trying at John class - I witnessed he correcting a student neck pain (b/c she did shoulder stand incorrectly) just like it was the simplest thing to do...(I had neck pain b4, and sometimes it even took wks to be back to normal) I was in awe...So I approached him and told him about my arm and hamstring issues...He just simply said that I will have all that fixed by practicing the way he teaches...So, I applied what he teaches differently compared to what I knew so far during the time waiting for the next class (AND Oh Boy - I was looking forward to it the whole week after that). GUESS WHAT?! My hamstring problem is GONE right after 2nd week. I have so much energy and joy after each class that I want to jump up and down on my bed and dun even want to go to sleep. Since then, I only need 6 hours of sleep each night. My mind is so freshen the next day, even tho I have to wake up at 5am for work. SO NOW I'M HOOKED!!! Forget about dredding the traffic. That notion is gone from my mind. I now sometimes even make time to attend both level I and level II on the same day. Mind you, after 10 hours at work, 3 hours driving - it's must be ADDICTION for a person to keep going that far. This Yoga center is UNIQUE for the way they teach. John is sooooo good at transfering knowledge!!! When you see him, you see Serenity. Go, take classes from this place!! I know they sometimes offer groupon for new students. And they do offer free classes, the next one will be the week of July 4th. Namaste! read more

I can't say enough about UNITY WOODS. There is no question that John Schumacher is the best teacher in the city and is 40 years strong in his practice of yoga. Anyone can (and many do) claim to be knowledgeable teachers - but John has the true qualifications of intense study with B.K.S. Iyengar in India and the long devotion to the practice over many years. The reason it's so important is that yoga teachers are a dime-a-dozen in this town - and many barely have a steady practice themselves. You can easily get injured without a serious instructor. John is renowned for his gifts as a teacher - and his amazing abilities (even into his sixties) as a practitioner. He has a deep calm and poise and pushes his students to new depths. I go to Bethesda once a week to attend John's class and he has made adjustments that are so subtle that no other teacher ever noticed - but that have transformed my practice. I also note - and this is a very big point - John is the only teacher that I know in this area who has a dedicated pranayama class. We are so very lucky. I used to study with John's students - and there are many in this city. But then, I realized that to study with John - is to go right to the source. I do love taking class at the local studio in Woodley Park - and study with Joe (amazing) and Winnie (challenging). I recommend both!! There are a range of teaching styles and each teacher is different. I have been practicing yoga for seven years - and have tried every studio in Washington DC. This studio is really grounded in technical expertise, rigorous teacher training and and that's why it's impossible to injure yourself in one of these classes. It's a respite from the "fly-by-night" studios and is true to the classical study of yoga. I also have to say that it's a big studio with a good community of interesting people. read more

I've been to most of the yoga studios in the Rockville, Bethesda and Silver Spring area. There are always new ones opening up that I'll keep trying. But after 10 years of trying various ones, I think this is my favorite in eastern Montgomery County for environment, the instructors, and the style of yoga. I like the views from the penthouse location. The studios face northwest so I prefer the late afternoon classes. John is amazing, but I like taking his class best because of the instructors-in-training in his class. It's like getting 3 instructors for the price of one. But I've had other great instructors, too, and they all guide you through the posture until the class has it right -- using props, clear instructions, and by modeling. The only drawback about the late afternoon classes is the parking. There really isn't free parking in downtown Bethesda. And this is a major deterrant. read more

A caveat-- I took classes in 2000-2001 at Unity Woods-- so my experience there is hardly current. That said, Unity Woods is recognized nationally as one of the best places to study Iyengar yoga in the US. Its founder, John Shumacher, is regarded as one of the top Iyengar teachers internationally. This is a studio that has been providing excellent yoga instruction long before the current trend, and it will continue to do so when other yoga studios have closed. Iyengar-certified instructors receive some of the best and most comprehensive training around, so you know that you're getting someone who really knows what they're doing and is devoted to their practice. I studied with Joe Adlesic, Carol Cavanaugh, Giulia Mainieri, and Ann Thomas. All are excellent, highly skilled teachers. I particularly liked the teaching styles of Ann (gentle) and Joe (more challenging). Iyengar yoga is particularly good for people with health concerns or injuries. If you speak to your teacher beforehand, he or she will modify poses to accommodate special needs. As other reviewers have mentioned, Iyengar yoga is disciplined. It is rigorous in a very precise way. You will not jump around or sweat a lot in an Iyengar class, but you will be challenged, repeatedly, to embody each pose with strength, alignment and precision. read more

There a a few things you want from a yoga center. Careful attention to proper form and detailed instruction are some. Patient and warm instructors are, IMHO, also key. I am pleased to say that Unity Woods has all of these. There are lots of different classes and times, so anyone should be able to find their level and timing. read more

I love Unity Woods and all of the teachers. I myself am a yoga teacher and have so much respect for the Iyengar method. It is very difficult to become Iyengar certified and is a seal of excellence. The studio has two rooms for yoga and they have excellent props and great light. The reception folk are friendly and helpful as well. read more

This is by far the best studio I've been to in DC. All of the instructors I've had are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. As previous reviewers mentioned the emphasis is on form rather than speed but it allows you to develop a strong foundation for your practice. I have been doing yoga on and off for about 3 years and I found Liz's level II class on Mondays to be a challenge (in a good way!). I will say that the one drawback is the space which is located in a windowless basement but the quality of the class makes up for what the studio lacks in atheistic. read more

Great yoga studio! I have been around many along the southeast coast. Grounded in the essence of yoga while providing excellent posture classes for a great physical workout and strengthening of ones overall health and constitution. Best in terms of alignment and individual attention for individual bodies while guiding students into more advanced postures safely (which I cannot say for all advanced yoga classes.) Best in terms of alignment and individual attention for individual bodies. They offer pranayama (breathing) classes that are presented in a very saf, enjoyable, and intelligent manner. Teen yoga classes are offered too. The desk attendents, teachers and other students are all very nice and pleasent to be around. read more

I've been studying here for over five years and have nothing but positive things to say about the teachers. I mostly take classes at Woodley Park, also a few in Bethesda. The focus on form and alignment is a great foundation for learning the different poses. I've learned how to work with occasional back/shoulder problems - modifying the pose, using a strap or blanket or other prop. The fact that we move slowly through poses doesn't mean the classes aren't challenging - they can be very challenging! But the challenge comes from going deep into poses rather than moving quickly from one pose to another. I've taken classes in studios all over town and nothing compares to Unity Woods. read more

Just left my first Yelp event and my first time at Unity Yoga. The studio is big but cozy, everyone was really kind and friendly. Laurel was the instructor and she is awesome!! Very knowledgdable, calm and funny. They have everything you need there: mats, belts, strips, blankets, etc. Just bring all your willingness and you'll have a great time! read more

I really like Unity Woods yoga classes. They are slower paced and more focused on positioning than the popular flow and hot yoga classes. I don't work up a sweat but I always come out feeling great. My mind is always clear and crisp after class and my body feels straight and properly positioned. I have had several instructors and found all of them to be knowledgeable and excellent in their instruction. I also appreciate the receptionist who is helpful and welcoming. read more

I recently signed up for discounted yoga classes at UW. Before I started went in I got a sinus infection and never got around to calling in until the end of the time period. I assumed they would tell give me a credit or something, instead a very rigid and rude person told me I had missed the session and they would not make any accomadation. When I pressed her she said I should contact Groupn, I told her UW had my money, not Groupon and if they wanted to keep it at least they should be honest about their behavior. I was very surprised at such bad-karma behavior. I try to shop locally but honestly a big company like Bally would not act this, their PR department would keep their greed under control. read more

If you are at all interested in yoga, Unity Woods is a must. They have the most experienced and knowledgeable teachers. The style is challenging and engaging. I'm hooked; I love the classes. All of the teachers are excellent - it's fun to try different instructors. I've become much stronger, more flexible and have learned how to practice on my own, as well. This is a world-class yoga studio - don't miss out on this incredible resource. read more

Fantastic studio. You really get in deep and learn how to do the poses.

I've been taking classes at Unity Woods for at least 16 years (yikes!). Started when my son in elementary school, & still going strong! For 50+ yr. old, woman who's tried different yoga classes when on vacation in the U.S. and Europe, I can unreservedly say that UW stands head and shoulders above the rest. I feel incredibly fortunate & blessed every time I leave one of Anne's classes & gratitude for still getting so much out of each class. All the teachers are very experienced with literally hundreds of hours of teaching training, they know body physiology, & adapt poses to students w/challenges in their bodies--back. Shoulders, knees, wherever. Unity Woods is NOT a trendoid yoga studio--they've been in Bethesda, VA & Woodley Park for a long time, & are 100% committed to yoga & their students. Whether you're a mom of a young adult as I am, someone in their 20's, 30,'s, 40's or whatever--this is the place to go if you want to build you upper body strength, ward of bone brittleness, refine alignment , work on body balance awa feeling a sense of calmness, strength & awareness that makes UW second to none in the DC metro area. Check it out! read more

I've been going to this yoga studio for 5 years now and absolutely adore it! All of the teachers are excellent, each one brings their own personality to their practice. When I first started, my teacher had just returned from India (one of her many trips studying with the Iyengars). FYI, this studio specializes in Iyengar yoga. I can't tell you how my teacher here has changed my life. I highly recommend this place! read more

Unity Woods Yoga Center is the best yoga studio around. The teachers are incredibly knowledgeable, gifted, and dedicated. This is the studio for people who want all the benefits of yoga. read more

I came to Unity Woods as a complete beginner (and not a very coordinated or flexible one, either)- and have been so happy with the improvement in my strength and flexibilty. The staff is very accomodating for those of different ages, sizes, and levels of experience. read more

This yoga class was more like a ballet class for kids - constant corrections from the instructors about the "right" way to do a pose. John, the owner, had two assistants who helped him instruct/correct students. THe props were old and worn. read more

In a crowded field of yoga studios, the training you get at Unity Woods sets the standard for any yoga practice you may want to pursue in the future. The Iyengar style is not for everyone but the teachers here are deeply committed to the practice of yoga and have studied for years and trained with master yogis. This sort of expertise will add a level of awareness to your alignment and poses that will serve you well for the rest of your life. Check out the community classes for a start since it is a chance to meet and talk with several of the regular teachers. read more