FAQs

I’ve never taken a yoga class before how do I start?

The best place to start yoga is at the beginning. Even if you are fit and sporty, if you have never taken a class a beginners class will bring you at a slower pace. We have a wide range of beginner classes and styles available from gentle Hatha to more dynamic Ashtanga or Hot yoga. Our class advisors will point you in the right direction if you are unsure at all.

We have a great online booking schedule and great special offers for first time students. To see a full schedule of classes see our online schedule.

Which style of yoga would suit me?

Hatha is a great start for anyone as you take your time in postures and slowly transition into your next posture. The other forms of yoga we do including Hot yoga, Vinyasa flow and Ashtanga yoga are more dynamic. Yes, the level I classes are suitable for beginners, but if you are unsure or particularly inflexible, Hatha would be our recommendation. For a complete list of class descriptions check out our class descriptions.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a form of exercise, developed by Joseph Pilates, which emphasizes the balanced development of the body through core strength, flexibility, and awareness in order to support efficient movement. Core strength is the foundation of Pilates exercise. The core muscles are the deep, internal muscles of the abdomen and back. When the core muscles are strong and doing their job, as they are trained to do in Pilates, they work in tandem with the more superficial muscles of the trunk to support the spine and movement.

The class will consist of series of controlled and precise exercises. Each series of movements is done on a mat with some using additional equipment to directly target specific muscles. As you develop your core strength you develop stability throughout your entire torso, Pilates helps people overcome back pain. As the trunk is properly stabilized, pressure on the back is relieved and the body is able to move freely and efficiently.

How do I start Pilates classes?

Pilates classes should be started by coming along to one of our FREE orientation classes. Here you will learn the basics of Pilates principals and start to work on your core muscles. We then have the option of taking Pilates Foundation courses. This beginners course will give develop your awareness and ability to target specific muscle groups in your body. From here you can move onto drop in classes. To see our schedule of Pilates Orientation classes see our online drop in schedule and for Foundation courses see our course schedule.

Which would be better for me pilates or yoga?

Both pilates and yoga are beneficial if you are looking to gain strength and flexibility and any form of exercise is good for lowering stress levels. However, there are specific differences. Yoga is good for overall flexibility and strength in your arms and legs, whilst Pilates will target the core and back. For stress reduction, Yoga really wins hands down. Learning to use your breath to calm and still your mind is a tool that you can use for the rest of your life. If you have had any back injuries, Pilates can be the best form of rehabilitation which will be imperative for long term recovery. For specific requirements our Class advisors will give you the best answer for you.

How do I book online for drop in classes?

The elbowroom has a full online class schedule for classes and courses. In order to reserve you will need to create an account from the top right hand corner of the class schedule. To book you will need to have credit on your account, either an unlimited pass or a class pass. You can purchase these online. Otherwise call or email the studio and we can advice you how to reserve a space.

How do I book online for courses, workshops or events?

To book access the online schedule for courses, workshops and events and select the item you wish to enroll in. You will need to either pay in full or pay a deposit to secure your booking. Details can be found with each individual event.

What is body conditioning/Piloga/Zumba?

The elbowroom has a full range of classes and often puts on special classes that interest our clients. To see a full description of classes see our class descriptions.

Do I have to pay extra for your baby minding services?

The elbowroom has a series of classes for new mums and they are all BF (Baby Friendly). The postnatal Pilates and BF body conditioning classes all have a supervised child minding area in the room. This means that your baby is minded in the room whilst you exercise as long as they are happy. If they need you they will let you know! These services are FREE

What should I wear to my class?

Lose comfortable clothing for yoga is advisable. Bring your socks and a warm long sleeved top for the relaxation part. The more athletic classes such as pilates vinyasa flow, Ashtanga and advanced pilates might require lighter clothing. For hot yoga your clothing should be really light. For body conditioning and zumba you will need to wear clean trainers and if you are a girl – a good bra. If you are breast feeding girl – two bras. Bring a towel if you are prone to being a bit sweaty for any classes.

What is hot yoga? Is it the same as bikram?

Hot yoga is a style of yoga with flowing movement taught in a heated room. The room is heated to around 30 degrees. Each level of student attends a level that is suitable for them with each class having a different series of postures. Bikram differs by having all levels in the same class, with the same series of postures that remains the same. The Bikram studios are heated to a higher temperature also. Hot yoga in The elbowroom is unsuitable for pregnant women which also differs from Bikram’s ethos..

Do I need to bring my own mat?

The elbowroom will rent you a mat for €1 a pop. We suggest you get your own mat for a few reasons. Firstly it will encourage you to practice at home, secondly it is far more hygienic. With your own mat you can rest assured that it is only your naked feet that have been on it. We do of course wash our mats but still …. other peoples feet .. need we say more? We can supply you with a mat of your own from our selection.

Are there any men in your classes?

Yes, we are pleased to say we have lots of men who come to our studio to do both Yoga, Pilates and Body conditioning. We have men’s changing facilities and male teachers too. And receptionists. Men galore in fact!

I have an injury at the moment, can I take a class?

If you have an injury you will need to have it checked out before you can do a class. May we recommend the excellent physiotherapists we have at The elbowroom? If you are unsure at all about the severity of any injury, please contact your adviser or speak to any of The elbowroom staff. For what it’s worth. If you have hurt your back, Dr’s are often not the best people to advice you. Where a Doctor will prescribe anti inflammatory drugs and pain killers to mask any injury, a good physiotherapist will get to the cause of the problem and start to address and fix the issues.

Where are you?

In heaven, in Dublin 7. A 15 minute walk from the centre of town and stones throw away from Smithfield LUAS stop. We are on google maps. See our full list of directions and location information. And if you still get lost – someone at reception can guide you expertly into our doors. Be sure to plug in our number into your phone before you leave (01 6779859)

Are your free lunches vegetarian and can I get the recipe?

Yes, Vegan in fact and mostly wheat and gluten free. Food that loves you back. Recipes are available to anyone. You can even come in and help us cook it!