Clubs Celebrate National Yoga Month

The month-long celebration of yoga has begun! September marks National Yoga month, and clubs and members across the country are practicing downward dog, child’s pose, or other yoga poses of their preference.

Take a look at what various clubs across the U.S. are doing to celebrate the declaration and promote yoga in their communities.

New York Health & Racquet Club (NYHRC)

To honor National Yoga Month, NYHRC in New York City has partnered with Lululemon, a popular athletic company that makes clothes for yoga, running and other athletic pursuits. Each Sunday this month, one of NYHRC’s yoga instructors will lead a complementary yoga class at one of Lululemon’s locations in New York City.

“Lululemon is a very big brand in Manhattan, and we’re really happy to be partnering with them,” said Maryann Donner, the group fitness director for NYHRC.

Gainesville Health and Fitness

To celebrate not only yoga, but Pilates as well, this month Gainesville Health and Fitness in Gainesville, Fla. is offering free, seven-day passes to its clubs, for corporate offices and schools to take advantage of. The free passes give participants access to unlimited yoga, body flow and Pilates Mat classes.

“No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it in yoga,” said Anisa Perbtani, a yoga instructor at Gainesville Health and Fitness. “You’ll cultivate strength and discipline, but what’s more important, you’ll learn to relax. It’s improved every area of my life for the better.”

Crunch Fitness

On Sunday, September 29, 2013, Crunch Fitness will celebrate National Yoga Month by hosting a one-day event called “Yogapalooza.” Members will be encouraged to take one of a variety of yoga classes offered at Crunch Fitness.

“Since often, yoga can be intimidating to try for the first time, what better place to do this than at a gym with a ‘No Judgments’ philosophy,” said a spokesperson for Crunch Fitness. “Members will be able to bring friends – and there’s something for everyone!”

If you haven’t planned anything for National Yoga Month as of yet, it’s not too late – at 7 p.m. (local time) on September 30, 2013, participants are encouraged to unite and practice yoga together as a global show of support for the popular practice. Consider holding a “bonus” indoor or outdoor yoga class at the time, or confer with your group fitness or yoga director as to other creative things you can do. Many yoga studios are celebrating the declaration by offering a free week of yoga classes, so don’t miss out on an ideal opportunity to meet and introduce prospects to your club.

By Rachel Zabonick