AstaYoga

100% recommend. Dropped in on a Rocket class with Steve while visiting SF and the studio was welcoming and full of lovely dedicated practitioners. A beautiful community, and very good yoga class structured to support a variety of skill levels.

I ran into Asta Yoga in the post-pandemic era. All my beloved Ashtanga teachers had left the city during that time—so sad, sad, sad! Luckily, I found this gem. I love visiting in the summer/spring to take Ashtanga-inspired classes here. The vibes are wonderful: the space is open and spotless, and both the staff and classmates are dedicated practitioners.

The most incredible yoga studio in all of SF for advanced Ashtangis and beginners alike. My practice has advanced immeasurably since coming here 3 years ago thanks to Steve, Gary, and the other incredible instructors. Also has an incredible community - Sunday primary series is always followed by chai and hanging out - it’s become a ritual and sanctuary!

The teachers here are quite advanced and practicing with them will challenge you and inspire your own practice. At my Saturday 10am class with Tara, we did a lot of core work at the beginning and the teacher guided us through a sequence with arm balances that linked each pose. We did quite a bit of prep work for handstands as well and I definitely felt that I could hang on a little bit longer in handstand by the end of the class. I didn’t see the teacher give any hands on adjustments in class though, and this is something that I look forward to when I go to yoga class. The studio has a nice lounge area where you check in and a few changing rooms and cubbies to store your things. Because it is located in the Mission, they close or lock the iron gates during class to make sure there are no disturbances. The studio is warmed to about 75 degrees, just enough for you break a sweat and activate your flexibility, but not so warm that you are slipping and sliding in crow pose. Pros 1.) Advanced teachers and advanced clientele which means you can grow your own practice further, if that’s what you are looking to do 2.) Studio space itself is quite convenient; it’s located near a lot of food options and has a spacious area to hang out before and after class. Cons 1.) No showers and only one bathroom; there is often a line to use the bathroom 2.) The practice studio’s floor is carpeted which I suppose is better for your joints or minor falls (but a Manduka Pro mat would be sufficient); I went to a Saturday 10am class and everything smelled fresh, but it was the first class of the day. I would imagine that it would be a bit more gross if you had to practice right after a sweaty class.

This place is everything I could want in a yoga studio. The classes are challenging & fun, and the community is warm and welcoming. Do yourself a favor if you want an incredible yoga experience, and go to Asta!