Good news, Bostonians! It’s official – there is at least one yoga studio in every Boston neighborhood. We’re not saying they’re all good studios, but they’re everywhere. That means no excuses; we just don’t want to hear it. So if you are lucky enough to reside in Southie, South Boston Yoga is your spot. The instructor roster is packed with A-list yoga teachers and the schedule is stacked with a variety of classes, from Aerial (one of the few places in Boston to offer this class) to Yin and everything and anything in between.

We signed up for an hour and fifteen minute all-levels vinyasa class, and what we got was a basic all-levels vinyasa. We’re not complaining, we just weren’t blown away. You know us, we like to have our hair blown back a little. Average just doesn’t cut it in our book.

RUNDOWN

WORKOUT

We saluted the sun, we planked, we moved through a standing warrior series, then we did back bends, hip openers, twists, and ended in corpse pose. Sound familiar? Yeah, we thought so. We probably could have completed this class in our sleep. Don’t get us wrong, we like classes that get the job done and that are well structured, which this one was. But we really appreciate classes that challenge us, encourage us to try a new pose, or move us spiritually (it happens!).

INSTRUCTOR

Todd Skogund is co-owner of South Boston Yoga and also teaches at Equinox Sports Clubs. If you feel like dropping some dollas, you can also set up a private session with him to the tune of $100 an hour. His hourly rate is indicative of his training and knowledge – he is a sought-after and well-respected teacher in the Boston yoga community. He had a commanding presence and taught a seamless flow with great cues. We left class feeling stronger, well-stretched, and relaxed, and we thank him for that.

But there was just something missing: connection. He did not introduce himself at the beginning of class, he did not adjust anyone in the room during class, nor did he pepper in any humor or personal touches to his teaching. He shared no motivational or insightful tidbits to help push our practice. We go to yoga to sweat, but it’s also our church, which is why we were saddened that the Friday night mass didn’t leave us touched, moved, or inspired.

SPACE

Located right across from Stephanie’s on Broadway, South Boston Yoga has the 1st and 3rd floors (an odd set up) of the building. There are 2 studios on each floor with soft brown floors, white cement walls, and high ceilings. It has a warehouse feel, but there is a warmth to the rooms, especially with the large windows and skylights on the 3rd floor. The studio has bathrooms, changing rooms, and a shower. Bring your own showering essentials and be prepared to be cramped and rushed with a line of women waiting to use the facilities behind you.

There is a small retail section with mala beads, South Boston Yoga apparel, and a cooler with different types of water to purchase.