My new girlfriend from Nashville, who is also on ClassPass, had previously attended The River’s original studio in Golden Triangle and couldn’t wait to go back. We signed up for a Power Vinyasa, Hot, Sunday evening class. This was my first weekend evening class and getting ready I was starting to realize that I prefer getting my workout out of the way earlier in the day. I was running a little late so I was really excited to see that there was free parking!
The building is a bit of a maze. It is long and narrow. You walk in and make a u-turn to the cubbies before checking in at the front desk. The woman at the front desk was warm and inviting and I was happy to see she was also our instructor for class. The studio was similarly long and narrow. This was a big class of around 24 with about 7 or 8 men. There seemed to be a few people of color from varying ethnic groups. I was the largest in class but there was a range of body types, ages and levels (the range skewed towards white, young and fit but at least there was a range). The instructor was goals af. I have a serious girl crush. Racially ambiguous, sweet, empowering, and confident while serving body. Abs glistening. She had an assistant for class that hung out towards the back of the room and offered lots of hands on massaging/deepening assists. You can opt out of the hands-on assist at the beginning of class, but I love the extra attention (Thomas would agree 😉).
Class was good, what you’d expect for a Power Vinyasa class. Like the class I took in Five Points but kicked up a notch. I was surprised the music was more of the typical calming yoga playlist. The music at the class in Five Points was more current and fun. I guess it’s up to the instructor. Wasn’t much of a deal breaker since the workout was enough to keep me distracted! There were lots of side planks and binds which are hard for me. On side plank I took the modification and dropped a knee. I skipped out on fallen triangle, flip dog, and some binds opting for some recovery in child’s pose instead. I imagine twists and binds are difficult for most plus sized people, I am no exception. Too much of my body gets in the way. I’m suffocating – all thighs, belly, and boobs. I hate opting out of these poses. I want the workout, I want to open my chest and hips, but my body is limited. I usually end up opening up and stretching my arms out when they instruct to do a twist with hands together, it just feels much less restrictive. Maybe a strap would also come in handy? I’ve thought about taking a private class to learn how to utilize the strap as a tool in my personal practice. Usually the Power Vinyasa classes are moving too fast to consider this as an option but maybe with the right knowledge base I could take my own modifications. It’s an idea. If I get around to it, I will certainly post my lessons learned. It would be nice to stay active and in the zone; celebrating my thighs, belly, and boobs.
Class seemed to fly by. Besides the few poses I discussed above, I was totally honed in. My back and shoulders are still sore 2 days later. In shavasana someone came around and gave me a little massage, it was so nice. I left all smiles and sweat.
Overall I had a great time. I liked the feel, overall flow and vibe, of the Five Points location better. I appreciated the smaller class size and more open layout but I would definitely go back.
Recommendations: I’d try out the warm class first to see if this type of yoga is for you. This class was a little more difficult. I enjoyed it and if you like the power vinyasa style I’d recommend it – Power Vinyasa, Hot at The River Yoga – Golden Triangle!
Notes: ClassPass Credits – 3, 60 min
What to Wear/Bring: Yoga Mat, Microfiber Sports Towel (a must!)
Inclusive Fitness Denver 