FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do your teachers offer hands on assists?
Some do and some don’t, but we all get consent prior to touch. Adjustments can be illuminating for practice, but agency matter most. No is a great answer!
Do I need to bring my own mat?
We have mats and towels for rent at the studio, or you are welcome to bring your own! Members get complimentary mat storage.
I’m a student, or a veteran, or facing financial struggles, how can I afford to come to class?
We have worked hard to create a pricing structure that is fair. We recognize it isn’t always easy to fit self-care into the budget.
Our “supported” membership and drop in rate is for students, vets, and others in need. Just let us know you would like access to those prices at hello@backbayyogaunion.com. Details not required.
The $49 new member special is the best way to get started for almost everyone though!
Your name keeps changing, what’s up?
We aren’t trying to confuse people, we swear. We opened in 2019 as Boston Yoga Union at a former location. In September of 2023, we moved in part due to the fallout from Covid, but mostly because 364 Boylston suits our needs ideally and refrshed our name to Back Bay Yoga Union as a nod to the indy studio that occupied the Back Bay space many years ago. In 2024, with the incorporation of the Coolidge Yoga community we’ve gone back to Boston Yoga Union given our service to yogis throughout Boston, not just in the neighborhoods our studio spaces sit.
What amenities are available?
Our studios are designed as a community space to spend time before, during and after your class. Back Bay and Coolidge feature a large lobby lounge spaces with ample shoe storage and couches to catch up or work on a puzzle; spaces for changing, clothing storage, bathrooms and showers appoint the space. Towel service and mat rentals are available. Members have access to mat storage. Both studios have retail areas with studio swag and gift item to treat yourself or others.
How big is the studio, will I have personal space?
Each studio location is ample, the full second floor of our building in both locations. You’ll find two spacious studio spaces - “front studio” and “back studio”. Often there is plenty of open space in a class, but very popular classes will be more dense, teachers will arrange students to ensure they can practice with comfort.
I’m a beginner, is your studio for me? Which class should I take?
Most of our classes are “all-levels,” meaning they are taught in a way that students from newbies to advanced students will have good experience. Remember, everyone feels a little nervous walking into a new space, and everyone took their first class a one point! Contact us and we can help you choose a great fit.
Do you have showers and changing areas?
YES! There are ample dry changing and shower spaces at each bathroom. Each shower has shampoo and body wash from a local New England soap maker. Back Bay’s spaces are gender-neutral locker room style while Coolidge has changing booths and individual gender-neutral private bathrooms.
Where do I store my personal belongings?
Shoe storage is in the main lobby, in each of the studios there are cubbies for clothes and personal items, mat storage is available for members.
Can I just take a drop-in class?
Of course, drop in classes are $27, memberships and passes provide savings for those who plan to practice more than once, but we welcome visitors from across town or in Boston for business or personal travel.
I am a super advanced expert yogi, is your studio for me? Which class should I take?
Most of our classes are “all levels,” meaning they are taught in a way that students from newbies to advanced students will have good experience. Text us and we can help you choose an interesting challenge.
Are you handicapped accessible?
Our Back Bay studio accessible via elevator and has wide doorway spaces. The front studio is fully accessible but there are three small steps into the back studio. Our Coolidge studio is only accessible via stairs.
Can I text my friends during class?
Sorry, but No. Please give yourself the gift of a little mental space. You are welcome to use your phone in our lounge, but we ask that you keep it off and put away during class.
Do I have to hustle out after class ends? Sometimes I need a moment to settle in my body after a class.
Take a moment for yourself, with the exception of the last class of the night when the team is closing up, take advantage of our lobby-lounge space to take a moment, catch up with friends or speak with your teacher about your experience. The Union is about community.