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Find your zen at the best yoga classes in Johannesburg
In Johannesburg, the city that’s always buzzing, even the lions at the zoo are contemplating taking up yoga to deal with the stress.
But for us humans, we’ve got the next best thing to a savanna sunset stretch: yoga classes that promise to bend your stress away, not your wallet. Imagine achieving the zen of a monk who’s just won the lottery. Now that’s a stretch worth taking!
So, roll out your mat, because these yoga classes in Johannesburg are about to elevate your practice and bring harmony to your life.
Ashtanga Yoga JHB
Website: https://ashtangayogajhb.co.za/
Address: 56 Conrad Dr, Blairgowrie, Randburg
Phone: +27 10 753 2007
Ashtanga yoga is a system of yoga that involves synchronizing your breath with a series of poses, and it was developed by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in 1915.
When I joined an Ashtanga yoga class here, I was fascinated by the Mysore-style practice. Here, each student moves through the series of poses at their own pace, creating a serene and personalized experience.
The Led classes, on the other hand, provide a more structured approach, with the teacher guiding everyone through the traditional sequence.
| Pro Tips: Consider taking a trip to nearby Delta Park where you can unwind by reading a book after class. Reading is a great way to soothe your mind. |
Free Spirit Wellness
Website: https://www.freespiritwellness.co.za/
Address: Thornhill Estate, Modderfontein
Phone: +27 82 401 8389
At Free Spirit Wellness, you’ll find friendly, experienced, and caring teachers. They’ll guide you through aromatherapy classes, inspirational readings, and soothing music!
Free Spirit Wellness offers a variety of yoga classes, including Vinyasa, Yin, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Gentle Flow, and Hot Flow. These classes cater to different needs, from dynamic and strenuous practices to slow, restorative sessions.
Additionally, I was delighted to discover that the studio offers exclusive outdoor yoga events. I had the opportunity to join one of these sessions, where the instructor seamlessly integrated elements of nature into our practice.
| Pro Tips: Free Spirit Wellness offers diverse activities beyond studio classes. You can join their outdoor yoga events, ecstatic dance, and cacao ceremonies, providing an opportunity to enrich and liberate your yoga practice. |
Hotpod Yoga
Website: https://hotpodyoga.com/studios/johannesburg-melrose/
Address: 102, Corlett Dr, Birnam
Phone: +27 71 418 2047
Hotpod Yoga is a unique yoga experience that combines heat, scents, lights, and music to create a relaxing and energizing atmosphere.
I tried their Hotpod Flow class, which was heated to a cozy 37°C. The hour-long session followed a vinyasa-based sequence, with just the right balance of challenge and relaxation.
They also have a more intense class called Dynamic Flow for the pros.
| Pro Tips: Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes before your class begins. You don’t want to miss the class. The doors are locked for security once it starts. Don’t come too early either. The studio and the pod must be prepared for each class, and other yogis may be exiting from the previous session. |
ISHTA School of Yoga & Health
Website: https://ishtayoga.co.za/
Address: 121 Atholl Rd, Atholl, Sandton
Phone: +27 11 887 2027
The ISHTA School of Yoga and Health provides a diverse range of yoga classes suitable for all ages and abilities. They offer traditional styles like Ashtanga and Kundalini, as well as Yogalates, prenatal, and youth yoga.
Among the variety of yoga styles available, I particularly enjoyed exploring Yogalates. It’s a mix of yoga and Pilates that gave me a great workout and helped me feel centered.
The class helped with our strength and flexibility, with the instructor reminding us to breathe and listen to our bodies. The class left me feeling both energized and relaxed.
| Pro Tips: Aim for at least two classes per week and a daily home practice tailored to your needs to get the most out of your yoga journey. You can modify your home practice by following their online videos, which are available upon registration. |
Living Yoga
Website: https://www.livingyoga.co.za/
Address: 13 Chester Rd, Parkwood, Randburg
Phone: +27 74 148 3350
The Living Yoga studio is a place where students can learn and practice yoga in a sacred way. Here, I found myself not just practicing postures but also weaving yoga philosophy into the fabric of my everyday life.
The studio was founded by Cherryl Duncan in 2006 and is now run by Sarah Bentz, a certified Jivamukti teacher. Jivamukti is a famous yoga method created by Sharon Gannon and David Life.
I’ve been following their 8-part yoga series, which has enriched my practice with its blend of movement, breathwork, and meditation. And on days when I can’t make it in person, their on-demand videos allow me to maintain my practice from home.
| Pro Tips: Check out Living Yoga’s events to deepen your yoga practice and join a vibrant community. In a sacred space, they offer workshops, Satsangs (spiritual meetings), charity events, meditation, and sutra lectures. |
MovementX
Website: https://www.movementx.co.za/
Address: Shop 17A, Village View Shopping Complex, Van Buuren Rd, Germiston
Phone: +27 11 450 2953
Movement X is a private gym with several locations in Joburg. It offers a variety of classes, from high-intensity interval training and barre to yoga, which is called fleX.
The yoga instructors have different styles and approaches to teaching. The classes help you relax, stretch, strengthen, and tone your body.
One of the things I appreciated about Movement X was the flexibility to choose workouts based on my preferences, goals, and even my current mood. Each workout has a warm-up, a routine, and a stretch for optimal results.
| Pro Tips: In addition to yoga classes, you can join diverse workout sessions like apeX, a high-intensity interval training class, and aXis, focusing on Pilates for core strength. |
The Art of Movement
Website: https://theartofmovementsa.com/
Address: 101 Barry Hertzog Ave, Emmarentia, Randburg
Phone: +27 11 486 0638
If you are searching for a dance, yoga, and fitness studio in Randburg, I recommend checking out The Art of Movement. They offer various yoga styles and teach ancient theory, breathing exercises, and sun salutations.
The small class size created an intimate setting, and the studio was equipped with everything I needed.
During the session, we focused on sun salutations, which proved to be both challenging and refreshing. The teacher ensured that I felt safe and comfortable, giving me a real appreciation for Hatha yoga’s balance and mindfulness.
| Pro Tips: Enroll your kids in The Art of Movement’s dance classes, offering ballet, hip-hop, tap, and more. These classes feature a structured syllabus including competitions, exams, and shows, ensuring that your kids will love learning and performing. |
The Nest Space
Website: https://thenestspace.co.za/
Address: 23 7th Ave, Parktown North, Randburg
Phone: +27 72 200 9953
The Nest Space is a yoga studio that promotes holistic healing and breaking down stereotypes in the wellness industry. Everyone is welcome, regardless of background or identity.
During my time at The Nest Space, I participated in a Vinyasa Flow class. The instructor guided us through a series of dynamic poses, seamlessly connecting breath with movement.
One evening, I joined their African Moon Gathering—special moon ceremonies with breathwork, yoga, and meditation. These gatherings are open to all levels and are donation-based.
| Pro Tips: After your session, treat yourself to some tea and healthy snacks at Gabriella’s Tea Room, located just next door. Try their Mediterranean vegan platter for a feast of hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, olives, pita bread, and fresh veggies. |
The Yoga Republic
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheYogaRepublic/
Address: 107 Gertrude Street
Phone: +27 11 791 6228
The Yoga Republic is a unique yoga studio known for its eco-friendly design. Formerly known as Bikram Yoga on Republic, the studio was rebuilt from the ground up with a focus on natural earth tones and practical designs.
Their aerial yoga class was an exhilarating challenge. Suspended in the air, I found a new perspective on balance and strength. The instructors were not just skilled but also incredibly supportive
What’s more, if it’s your first time or you’re watching your spending, they offer attractive deals to fit your budget.
| Pro Tips: If you’re looking for a healthy food option, check out the Green Heart Café at the studio. It offers delicious vegan and vegetarian cuisine, such as chia pudding pots and banana muffins. |
Vertical Vixen
Website: https://www.verticalvixen.co.za/
Address: 7 Zircon St, Jukskei Park, Randburg
Phone: +27 72 199 3133
Vertical Vixen is a studio that offers aerial yoga, a workout that combines yoga, Pilates, aerial arts, and strength training. You use slings hanging from the ceiling to support your body and perform challenging movements and poses.
The instructors here nurture both body and soul. When I attended one of their classes, they guided me through each movement with patience and encouragement, making my goals seem within reach and my well-being their priority.
Every class at Vertical Vixen is a journey through movement, each tailored to different skill levels. It aims to stretch your body and mind and makes you feel strong, empowered, and connected.
| Pro Tips: In addition to yoga, Vertical Vixen offers pole dancing classes that help build strength and technique. Book a trial class to challenge yourself without any previous dance or fitness experience. |
Yoga Experience
Website: https://www.yogaexp.co.za/
Address: DP World Wanderers Stadium, 35 Corlett Dr, Illovo, Sandton
Phone: +27 82 639 2330
Yoga Experience in Illovo specializes in Bikram yoga, which focuses on 26 postures. Through consistent attendance, you can notice improvements in your posture, flexibility, and strength, as I did.
You may also want to try Forrest Yoga, which is practiced in a heated room and includes pranayama, seated poses, and challenging asanas. Furthermore, there is Iyengar Yoga, which emphasizes detail, precision, and alignment in yoga postures.
As a newcomer, I took advantage of the first-timer special package, which offered 10 days of unlimited classes, a perfect way to immerse myself in the practice.
| Pro Tips: Stay hydrated by drinking electrolyte supplements, coconut water, or fresh juices available at the studio’s juice bar before and after your class. |
Yoga Lova
Website: https://yoga-lova.com/
Address: 1st Ave, Illovo, Sandton
Phone: +27 82 771 6105
Yoga Lova is a cozy and elegant yoga studio in Illovo, Johannesburg, where you can find daily yoga classes for all levels of practice.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll receive personal attention and guidance from experienced instructors. You can also opt for private classes if you prefer more individualized sessions.
The Alignment Flow class is a personal favorite; it’s where I’ve learned to refine my postures, building up to more intricate poses with a focus on precision and mindfulness.
| Pro Tips: To fully experience the benefits of yoga, Yoga Lova recommends leaving your cell phones outside the studio and avoiding talking during classes. This way, you can create a peaceful and respectful atmosphere for yourself and others. |
Yoga Works
Website: https://www.yogaworks.co.za/
Address: 25 Radnor Street
Phone: +27 72 835 2525
Yoga Works in Joburg offers diverse yoga events suited to all levels and preferences, including sessions in nature, on water, or on rooftops.
Their retreats and corporate programs have been deepening my practice and connecting me with a community of like-minded individuals. The workshops provide a wealth of knowledge, helping me perfect new yoga poses and techniques.
And on days when I prefer the quiet of my home, Steven’s online classes are a blessing. His guidance through vinyasa flow, breath work, and mindfulness is invaluable, and it’s all available at no cost.
| Pro Tips: Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you don’t understand something. Teachers at the studio are always happy to share their expertise and for specific postures. |
Nearby Johannesburg
Zero Gravity Yoga
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZeroGravityYogaStudio/
Address: 37a van Rooyen St, Morehill, Benoni & 17 Nicol Rd, Bedfordview, Benoni
Distance from Johannesburg: 15-minute drive
Phone: +27 83 361 3255
Zero Gravity Yoga is a unique and fun way to practice yoga in the air.
Using yoga slings, you can explore traditional yoga poses and Pilates and dance movements while being suspended off the ground. The slings provide support and comfort as you stretch and strengthen your body.
Candice Baker, a life coach and yoga instructor, leads the classes that cater to different levels of experience.
| Pro Tips: Aerial yoga is a body-inclusive practice that anyone can enjoy regardless of shape, size, or ability. Trust the sling, which can hold up to a couple thousand pounds. It’s recommended that you wear tight yoga pants or leggings instead of loose pants or shorts during class to ensure comfort and safety. |
