Monarch Yoga - Kensington — Local services in Philadelphia

updating now that I've been coming here over a year - my boyfriend recently commented on my "transformation" over the last 1.5 yrs and I have to give a lot of credit to Monarch! I feel like my anxiety is a lot more manageable; I used to struggle a lot, especially with noise sensitivity, and nothing had substantially helped til regularly attending these classes.

Also, not to be vain, but I'm truly in the best shape I've ever been in despite how effortless it's been to incorporate these classes into my weekly routine. I've had intense workout routines in the past - HIIT, weight training, etc nearly every day - that were draining and still didn't help me meet my goals. Now I'm my leanest and strongest thanks to a balanced practice at this studio. Practicing a few days a week at Monarch has helped me physically to build muscles and improve my posture, and helped mentally so that it's a lot easier to make healthier choices outside of the studio.

My original review (below) is all still SO true - the community is kind and welcoming, the studio itself is clean and well-appointed, and the hot power flow classes are addictive.

The unlimited membership is a wildly good value, and booking classes on the app is so convenient - my work schedule can sometimes change without warning, but I love that I can just easily adjust my class reservations on the fly. Even if I'm not motivated to work out, I'm always motivated to spend time here.

Lastly, I love all the instructors and have really enjoyed learning their different styles. Each person gives me something unique to look forward to. Thank you for challenging me in new and exciting ways with the best playlists Jamie, thank you for teaching me how to release in a gorgeous curated atmosphere Brooke, thank you for helping me properly break a sweat and build my abs Rasheeda, thank you for my favorite lunch break and thoughtful words of wisdom Sasha, thank you for a kickass workout that flies by Epiphany, thank you for pushing me outside my comfort zone while maintaining my focus Jordan, thank you for inspiring me to be thoughtful with my movement by putting so much thought and joy into your flows Andy, thank you for helping me set intentions and move with purpose Sara, thank you for helping me practice balance in and outside the studio Michelle, thank you to everyone I've taken a class from truly you're all amazing.

ORIGINAL REVIEW: Gorgeous and clean studio, very accepting environment, excellent and varied instructors - I've gotten in great shape and really enjoyed the mental health...

Monarch Yoga is one of the best small businesses in all of Philadelphia! The classes here are always impactful, and they have been the perfect thing to incorporate into the other activities I do. It does not matter what level of skill you have, you will enjoy class whether it is your first time trying yoga or if you're a seasoned vet.

While I have gained a lot from a physical & mental strength standpoint since becoming a member at Monarch, that's not the reason Monarch is unique. What sets this organization apart is the sense of community that they have cultivated throughout the Fishtown & Kensington neighborhoods at time when people needed it most. Since the pandemic began, We all have spent more time at home and naturally have been more isolated from the outside world. By welcoming everyone that walks through the door with open arms & by hosting classes at the coolest parks, studios, & distilleries in the area, Monarch has created an amazing environment that has brought people back together...

I've been a regular student here since the very beginning and have always appreciated the sense of community and skilled, caring teachers. However, I'm really disappointed by the recent direction of the studio. Some of the most thoughtful and authentic instructors- whose classes I attended regularly- have left reportedly due to concerns about their contracts. It's very disheartening to see teachers who helped create such a warm, welcoming environment no longer part of the studio.

In addition, the studio heat is uncomfortably high (and, in my opinion, unsafely) which makes it feel more like a workout than a mindful, intentional practice.

I hope they reconsider their approach to both valuing and supporting teachers and class safety because it has the potential to be a great place to practice. Unfortunately, given these changes, I've decided to no longer take classes at...