Mark Blanchard's Power Yoga

I feel like I was never doing real yoga until I went to this studio. It's such a great and therapeutic environment and you can go at your own pace. I particularly love Noelle's class, but get there early b/c the space fills up soon! more

SO I finally found a studio in valley that doesn't have the nonsense that seems to be ALL OVER the L.A. Yoga scene and I am in LOVE!! Here, it's all about yoga and family. That's it. Do what you can do and YES, MY FRIENDS you will be challenge but you won't have some teacher telling you ""grab your block, strap, wall, hook, umm.. sledghammer, belt, towel.. uhhh whatever it takes to get into the pose!"".. ugh. They give you modifications for the poses you can't do and the studio is small enough that everyone is kept an eye on especially if you tell them you are new. I've seen several students walk in BRAND NEW to yoga and in Mark's class and he tells them ""dude, just touch your ankles-it's OKAY"" Whatever ""level"" any of us students are at we are all getting an insane workout and in an awesome meditation at the end. Some of my favorite teachers are Mark-he's awesome.-his wife, Elizabeth, Milena (lovely!) -she's a 101 class (there are 3 of these a week!) and Grace..I do like Noelle but a lot of hoping around for me. The studio is a family.. seriously they all just love each other and I remember it was like my fourth class and 2 of the female teachers were talking and everyone joined in and then I joined in.. and the next thing you know.. if was coffee at Aroma time.. this studio shouldn't be missed! oh yes, park in the more

Plain and simple, this studio changed my life. I have always loved yoga but could never find classes that were challenging enough. I did bikram for over a year, settling for migraines after every class and rude instructors, just because I wanted to at least sweat in a class! If I'm going to yoga, I want a physical and mental work out, not a yawnfest. Enter Mark Blanchard's Power Yoga. Never have I experienced such a sense of love and community in a studio. Mark and Elizabeth employ skilled, caring instructors who will push you to your limit but stop to help you along the way (my faves are Grace, Noelle and Beau). When I first came to the classes I thought I'd never be able to get into the headstands, arm balances, etc. but less than a year later I'm doing them and it's truly because this studio and its instructors have opened me up in ways I never dreamed possible. For those who are newer to yoga, I definitely advise going to a beginner's class first because from there on out there are no class ""levels."" That being said, the instructors always provide variations on poses so that you can decide how far to push yourself. Pros: Fantastic teachers and an incredible yoga community Cons: Cons? There are no cons! more

Not sure what the reviewer behind me was talking about. Mark is not inappropriate. (I LOVE the coment someone left for her! Ha ) His adjustments are spot on and he adjust everyone-men and women the same way. ""Laratruth"" needs to go to an ashtanga class (which is what power yoga is based on) and see what THOSE adjustments are like. If she is so busy noticing what Mark is doing then she isn't really practicing yoga -ie: listening to her breath and being in the present moment. She sounds really bitter or even immature. I do agree-I think the employee she's talking about was his wife.. a lot of people don't know that's his wife. BUT everyone there is like family and they're always hugging each other all the time. If his wife doesn't have a problem why would anyone else? moving on... What I love is ... ALL of his teachers adjust the same way -take his wife's class of Grace! (-amazing!) and you'll find out!. Every teacher sticks to the philosophy that is rare these days-something you'll only find if maybe you travel to India,= No music, no blocks.. just jump in and deal with your ego. I've been going for 5 yrs now and every time I practice at this beautiful little studio whether it's with Mark, his wife, Beau of any of his amazing teachers my experience has always been the perfect balance of challenging and heartfelt at the same time. Namaste. Pros: no distractions , great new student deal ($60 month!) Cons: parking can be an issue if you're not patient ;) more

I applaud the women who have the courage to honestly tell what their experience was in Mark's class. I took class with him years ago and found him to be uncomfortably touchy feely with the women in his classes as well as his receptionists. He gave me the creeps so I never went back. Pros: Mostly Great teachers Cons: The Owner/tardy class times more

I love this studio! All the teachers I've taken from are great. Especially love Elizabeth and Marks' classes. The classes are intense but everyone there is very cool. more

I'll be brief, as I believe most who read reviews (like myself) are seeking the facts and will quickly skim or skip obviously biased monologues about ""perfection"" and ""exquisiteness"". Home-base in NoHo: light, hardwood floors with a few sweet touches (sconces, tea-lights, windows that catch the sun), always very clean and peaceful. Mark's new studio downtown is located in the Reserve Lofts (Olympic/Grand) and has a slightly more industrial feel: stone floors, expansive glass windows, hurricane candle holders ... try both and see which enchants you. Mark and his teachers all posses their own styles, speeds and focuses, instructing with a noticeable delight in their own presentation. There are no props, music or levels at Blanchard's yoga .. rather there is a definite presence of freedom and the encouragement to try everything without fear, breathe through all challenges and enjoy oneself thoroughly .. Mark places himself no higher than his instructors, teaching daily at both studios with ageless, inexhaustable excitement. I have long since been a lover of the journey of yoga, but truly could not be more pleased with Blanchard's studio. Pros: Easy parking, AWESOME introductory deal! etc. Cons: LOL, small foyer ;o) more

I used to go to the gym for my workout routines and my friend suggested I joined her in a yoga class. I've been hooked to Yoga ever since. There is a wide spectrum of intensity depending on the class/teacher, and I highly recommend two teachers there: Beau and Noelle. I am addicted to these two!! They are not only wonderful teachers but also very nice people. You will get an awesome workout with Noelle and Beau, and they will correct your poses and even help you with those poses that are intimidating. At the end of you the class you will feel amazing. Beau usually teaches on Monday, and you can find Noelle on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. If you are looking for an intense workout in a very friendly environment, check them out! Pros: Nice and clean studio Cons: parking can be tricky more

Over the years I have randomly tried yoga around town and always left feeling the same way.... Stretched, but bored... It wasn't until my girlfriend basically forced me to go to Mark Blanchard's that I had a completely different experience. I left drenched! It was such a challenging workout at first. But now as I continue my practice I am amazed at the things my body is capable of... I can do all these crazy arm balances and headstands! I never knew that was possible... I have to say I have two favorite teachers... Noelle and Grace. These women are so powerful... So inspiring... Come to the studio and try it out. I guarantee you'll become addicted! I am!! Pros: Most amazing yoga in town... Cons: I want to go every day but my schedule gets in the way! more

Mark's Power Yoga saved my life. I stepped into the studio after the breakup of a highly toxic relationship. After 3 years, 50+ added lbs, and an obliterated sense of self worth, I really wasn't sure it would be possible to ever bounce back. But under the right tutelage, the soul can find resilience, the body can find strength and the mind can find calm. That tutelage is Mark Blanchard's Power Yoga. Elizabeth Folk Blanchard (my sister from another mister) and Andrew Abaria (who sadly doesn't teach there anymore) are whom I credit most for helping me take the greatest strides in my personal journey, but Mark, Grace, John... so many great teachers populate the studio, leading you through an intensive workout for your body and soul, without the new age talk, distracting music or limiting props. It's all about pushing yourself, challenging yourself, but ultimately being honest with yourself. You take yourself to your own edge, you confront your own fears, demons and weaknesses. And under the right guidance, there is nothing more liberating or more beneficial. I'm living proof- down 50 lbs and plus a whole new outlook on life, there's nothing to which I could give a stronger endorsement. Pros: great atmosphere, supportive teachers, intense workout Cons: Parking sometimes more

This place is a great boutique style yoga studio. One of the teachers elizabeth is a really good teacher. Would recommend for sure, but the room is fairly narrow. Pros: no music, props, Cons: small more

I've tried out quite a few yoga classes in and around Southern California in the past years, and I must say I pretty much gave up on finding one that was both challenging, invigorating, and rewarding on a meditative and physical level. After about a year hiatus from yoga, I decided to give yoga one more shot and take the Sunday evening class with Elizabeth at the Studio City location. I knew little to nothing about the studio, but had never tried Power Yoga before, so thought I'd give it a go. I'll be honest--I was nervous that I wouldn't be able to keep up. Although I had to take a few pauses in between poses to relax (the class is intense!) I have yet to find a more supportive and soothing atmosphere where everyone is sweating hard. I had what I would consider to be the best workout I've had in months. The room was dimly lit, and there was candlelight. No music or chanting, which I liked. Elizabeth seemed so caring and encouraging, and also really talked through some of the poses and techniques which was helpful for a beginner like me. I will definitely be back! Pros: Elizabeth, candlelight, high intensity workout in peaceful environment Cons: parking more

I have read some of the reviews below and most are right on while some others just seem like some uptight women who have no clue what they are talking about. Allow me set everyone straight - Mark has people in his class that are his best friends, people that share Thanksgiving and Christmas with him and his family - people that attend his children's school events. This is a family owned, family run studio! Does Mark look intimate with them PROBABLY to someone who has never been to his studio before BUT Mark is a powerful, focused YOGA INSTRUCTOR - he transforms people both mentally and physically - AND ELIZABETH has no problem with Mark adjusting his students because that is exactly what he is doing - IF ANY OF YOU WHO MADE THESE INFLAMMATORY COMMENTS BELOW had ever seen partner yoga you might get it. The resistance from another person's body with the pressure in the correct places can open up your hips or shoulder blades in ways you can't imagine. I AM ONE OF MARK'S LONG TIME STUDENTS AND I HAVE NEVER FELT HIS PRIVATE PARTS ON ANY PART OF MY BODY - even if he is laying on me - it was probably me in one of the classes referred to below. WILL MARK LAY ON YOU THE FIRST TIME YOU COME TO CLASS? - NO WAY. People in his class that he does this with you can bet have a close relationship with not only Mark BUT HIS WIFE ELIZABETH and I don't mean a sexual relationship. ANYONE who has been to Mark's studio and his class and focus on the YOGA he is teaching instead of looking around the room at everyone else would know this. IF YOU WANT TO LOOK AROUND AND JUDGE EVERYONE ELSE GO TO A GYM - this is real, true power yoga - with no BS - which is hard to come by in the city of angels. As for kissing on the back of the neck - again - these are people that Mark has been instructing for years - hell he was probably been at the birth of their children! AND YES HE DOES ADJUST MEN - ask anyone who frequents his class. He treats everyone equally - AND his class will kick your butt. more

Mark Blanchard a great instructor.. I'd heard about his class so I thought I'd check it out for myself. I've only taken his class a few times and it rocked.. my thigh were killing me! He adjust everyone-overweight, male, female, gay.... whatever. I appreciate that because everyone else in this town is apparently too afraid they're going to get sued if they adjust someone. Sometimes verbal adjustments don't always come across and you have to FEEL the pose. Maybe people are put off by Mark's adjustments because he's good looking and charming. There are a lot of female teachers out there that give hands-on adjustments(his wife being one of them) yet nothing is said?.. hmmmm... This is a wonderful , caring & unpretentious studio with real yoga that kicks your butt and leaves you blissful at the same time. Pros: if you ever think you're too late for class. they always let you in.. most studios don't :( Cons: parking is tricky at night but you can find a street spot more

It's so funny to hear women complain that Mark is too touchy feely...I went to another studio and the woman was just as ""touchy"" and everyone commented about what a great teacher she was because she touched and corrected everyone. I think people, women in general just feel uncomfortable being touched by the opposite s*x. I for one really appreciate the correction wether it comes from Mark or any other teacher. it helps me with my foundation and Mark is the most challenging class I've ever taken! I love the great workout I get. So I guess if you want a slow, stretchy, chanty yoga pratice, this studio is not for you. Pros: best yoga workout more

I took 2 classes a this studio. First time was amazing it was with Elizabeth. Great teacher, great vibe, enough said. Pros: Great work out Cons: too touchy feely more

The classes are challenging and an awesome workout. I especially like Mary and Elizabeth. The place has a really nice energy and they offer good deals if you buy a bunch of classes at once! Pros: good energy, great teachers Cons: sometimes starts late more

Loved, loved loved this studio! I thought Mark was very caring and a great teacher to those of us who are new to the whole yoga thing. Took Elizabeth's class also and was floored by how much energy this mother of three has! The studio was clean and simple, not a lot of stuff everywhere, which helps when you are focusing on the poses and breathing! Can't wait for my next class! Pros: Great energy more

This is the best yoga studio you'll find in the Valley! The studio itself has a great energy. It's not too big, which is nice. Mark's class is very challenging, but he keeps the mood light. I personally don't enjoy classes that feel very serious. Elizabeth's classes are awesome too! She really knows how to open up your hips. Her classes are challenging too, but so much fun. What else can I say, I love this studio! Pros: great instructors, good energy, parking in back, next to great shops Cons: you sometimes smell the food from next door more

Mark's classes are an amazing workout!! They combine yoga and a great cardio workout in a 90 minute session. The studio is fresh and very inviting. You will leave the studio feeling energized and positive. It restores your inner calm and strengthens your body at the same time. I've never felt better about my body or seen such great results! Pros: Fantastic workout! more