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| - I tried this studio using the introductory month pass. I was hoping to switch to Dragonfly from my regular studio because it is so close to my house, but after a month of classes (14 classes total), I just can't commit to a switch. Here's why:
The flow classes are generic and very similar to each other, even across instructors and class types. I found myself doing the same few poses during each class (half moon, eagle, bird of paradise). Even classes with different names (Flow, Power Flow, Chakra Flow) had very similar flows to each other, and I was unable to distinguish the class types from each other based on the flows. Even the yin classes I attended had very similar series of poses from class to class.
The instructors (with the exception of Sabrina) do not focus on form and do not correct students with poor form, neither verbally nor through assists. They do, however, offer harder versions of poses, and I saw many students attempt these versions when they probably were not ready to do so. Again, I did not see instructors make corrections or emphasize that it's okay to do the less advanced version.
My current studio's classes often have a difficult pose that each class builds up to, with strength and stretching techniques throughout to better prepare us for that pose. That way, if we want to build the skills to get into that pose in the future, we know the steps to get there. I do not see this approach at Dragonfly (again, with the exception of Sabrina).
Often, the instructors leave very little time for savasana (sometimes just a minute or so), and leave the room as soon as we get into the pose, allowing students to leave on their own time. This makes for a not-so-peaceful savasana, as the room quickly gets loud with other students packing up, climbing over/around other students, and opening the squeaky door to leave. I prefer a longer savasana with the instructor in the room until the end to talk us through getting out of the pose.
Upon entering the studio, there is a cubby area for jackets and bags, with a small entrance that creates considerable traffic as people try to squeeze in and out. I often arrive early to avoid the crowd before class, and sip some tea to wait for the crowd to leave after class.
It isn't all bad. Here's what I like about Dragonfly:
Fire. This is the Bikram-style class. It could be because it's scripted, but I get an amazing workout every time and am sometimes sore the next day. There is a decent emphasis on form and the instructors often give verbal corrections.
Barre Amped. Although only one class is included in the intro pass, it's a great class and a great workout.
The space itself is nice and new, with a comfortable tea lounge.
The location is great if you live nearby and don't want to drive/bike to a yoga studio.
In conclusion:
If you are new to yoga, I do NOT recommend Dragonfly, as you are at risk of developing bad form without being corrected, and you will probably not be exposed to many sequences and poses in the yoga world. If you already have a solid practice with good form and are just looking for a basic flow class without creativity or learning more advanced poses, this studio will do.
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