Black Swan Yoga - Westgate

Yoga studio · Westgate

Black Swan Yoga - Westgate

Yoga studio · Westgate
4534 West Gate Blvd, Austin, TX 78745

Photos

Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null
Black Swan Yoga - Westgate by null

Highlights

Heated studio with fantastic instructors, donation-based classes  

Placeholder
Placeholder

4534 West Gate Blvd, Austin, TX 78745 Get directions

blackswanyoga.com
@blackswanyogaaustin

Menu

Information

Static Map

4534 West Gate Blvd, Austin, TX 78745 Get directions

+1 512 960 4026
blackswanyoga.com
@blackswanyogaaustin

Menu

Features

payment credit card

Last updated

Aug 20, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.

Kristi Sanders

Google
The room is spacious and the artwork is pretty. Also the sound system is impressive. My biggest beef is that almost all of the classes that I have taken here are a misrepresentation of yoga and were actually dangerous and disregulating. Why call it yoga if it is not?

Brooklyn

Google
I took the 2:30p (Wednesday) Swan Sculpt with Diana, and it was hands down one of the most fun and challenging workouts I’ve had in a while. The class itself is a perfect mix of yoga, strength training, and cardio. What really made the class memorable was Diana’s energy. She commanded the room with confidence and clarity, guiding us through every movement with intention, and just the right amount of push. Her playlist was chefs kiss 🤌🏾 her cues were great, and she brought such a positive, motivating vibe that made even the hardest moments feel empowering 🤍

Elizabeth

Google
I have been going to this location off and on for 7 years. I go in a pinch, when my preferred studio is closed. The only pro is their affordability and they have classes all day long. Cons: Packed to the brim. You WILL get other people’s sweat splashed on you. They do not clean in between classes. Or ever, it seems. Dirtiest yoga studio I have ever seen. It smells like a moldy, nasty locker room. A lot of the patrons don’t use deodorant 🤮🤮🤮 Music is insanely loud. You cannot hear the instructor. Very loud breathers. Close your eyes and it feels like you’re on a filthy, body odor smelling porn set.

alyssa mangum

Google
Black Swan Yoga in South Austin (Westgate location) is hands down my favorite yoga studio in Austin! All the instructors are so positive and talented—they truly put their heart and soul into every class. The vibe and environment are incredibly relaxing, and I always leave feeling refreshed and inspired. I also love that it’s donation-based, which makes yoga accessible to everyone. Plus, it’s such a great place to meet like-minded people. I’m so thankful for this studio and the amazing community it’s created!

Matty Young

Google
Burning Palo Santo in yoga classes is a serious health hazard. BSY refuses to stop this reckless practice despite mountains of evidence from The American Lung Association that releasing VOCs into an aerobic environment centered on deep breathing is dangerous and irresponsible, increases risks for everything from emphysema, asthma, COPD, and even lung cancer.

Lindsay Walker

Google
Usually love the yoga classes, but they don't put a cap on attendance. I've counted almost 90 people in a class before, which is probably way over the legal/ fire code limit. They will cram people in with only inches between right up to the wall for popular times, which ruins the experience.

Lin

Google
I really like BSYoga! I love that it's affordable (donation based) and so beginner friendly!! Their instructors are really kind and friendly! This is exactly what I've been looking for to exercise and quit my sedentary lifestyle! I go as often as I can, without much worry since there's no contract commitment. Def worth a try! ***I also like that you can go to any location, any day! The only thing I wish was different is how they collect the donations if you drop in. It can be a bit embarrassing to say out loud, in front of everyone, how much you can donate, especially when you can't donate as much as others. I would go probably 3x as often if I didn't have to say my donation out loud, but I can't afford to as I feel embarrassed in the current model.

Emily Preston

Google
I've been a committed member of Black Swan for nearly 2 years and feel it's time to express my appreciation through a review. For those new to yoga, entering a studio can be daunting, but Black Swan is the perfect place for beginners. They go out of their way to ensure everyone feels seen, comfortable, and enjoys their experience. I highly recommend giving it a try. To the owners and teachers at Black Swan, thank you for everything. I've been coming five times a week for the past two years and it never loses its appeal. I genuinely cherish this community. My only suggestion would be to implement mat markers, as mats tend to spread out and it can be difficult to find a comfortable space. I adore BSY and look forward to continuing my journey with you. P.S. Abby Fine is an exceptional teacher. Her passion and love for yoga shine through beautifully.

Jillian P.

Yelp
I'm visiting from Saint Pete, FL, and decided to take a class at the Westgate location. 10/10 experience! It's really important for me to feel safe and comfortable, and I definitely did. I took a 45 minute class with Vicki, although she is not usually at this location. One of the best classes I've ever attended. Thank you.
google avatar

Kia L.

Yelp
There's always so much hype about Black Swan yoga and today I finally went to check it out! I attended John's flow class and the building is heated so be prepared for hot yoga (hot yoga is my fav) I wish the class was hotter but wanted to sweat and I definitely did just that! There's plenty of parking located in the shopping center and some towards the back of the building.

Matty Y.

Yelp
BSY Westgate still engages in the practice of burning Palo santo inside its studios, before, during and after classes. Palo Santo emits toxic VOCs including menthofuran. For a business that sells itself as "health and wellness" they are doing themselves, and every student who walks in, a giant disservice and putting everyone's health at risk. Yoga is an aerobic activity focused largely on heavy breathing in a hot environment, making the air quality of the studio of paramount importance. What they are doing should be illegal, the same way it is illegal to smoke cigarettes indoors. continuing the practice of releasing harmful VOCs into their yoga classes while claiming it "cleanses the air" is not only a fraudulent claim, but it's the reason people don't take yoga instructors seriously. This practice will continue to represent yoga as a laughing stock of health and wellness modalities, and it shouldn't be. Yoga is a wonderful activity that's improved many people's well being, and should continue as such. Get serious about yoga and your health; go somewhere else where they take it seriously.
google avatar

Jailene S.

Yelp
Instructor was nice, parking was easy albeit a little far. The class wasn't really challenging. and the blocks didn't smell great, but overall decent experience.
google avatar

Christina H.

Yelp
With so many locations around Texas, and now Colorado, it's easy to find the nearest Black Swan Yoga (BSY) studio near you. BSY is a safe space for everyone-- from day one yogis, advanced yogis, and even yogis who just want to do Savasana and meditate the entire class-- there's no discrimination, there's no pressure, all are welcome. You take out what you put in. BSY has several instructors throughout their studios, however, not all are created equal. I would recommend trying several instructors out and finding who is perfect for your flow. Though BSY promotes their classes as a heated yoga class, don't expect scorching temperatures as you would normal studios. Everything seems to be very open interpretation here, so expect to come in with an open mind. My favorite instructor I recommend: Kaitlyn C
google avatar

Candice N.

Yelp
First time visiting an Austin location and I will be back. TONS of folks show up for these classes, so get there early to claim your spot.
google avatar

Emilee L.

Yelp
I've attended classes that really work for me and some that don't. Generally, I've had better experiences with female teachers. I really like Nicole and Jenni. Kennon teaches an amazing class as well. I recommend trying a few instructors and trying to find one whose style works for you. I've gotten a lot out of chill classes which I originally booked as a one off and it ended up being something I continue to return to every week.

Elizabeth C.

Yelp
I love this location but I mostly go on Saturdays at 10:30 while Marco is teaching. Truly the best yoga instructor I've ever had. He makes everyone laugh and feel loved and he speaks beautiful Spanish every now and again. I've just always had great experiences at all black swan locations but I've been coming more often because of Marco. Give that queen a raise!
google avatar

Danielle R.

Yelp
One word to describe this place is hot. And I mean from the temperature to the people, this spot is where you want to be. The donation based idea is a thoughtful way of business supporting community and allowing the community to support your business anyway they can. The staff is pleasant and knowledgable giving you a great yoga session while also allowing you to move freely and at your own pace. Black Swan has earned a permanent spot on my weekly agenda!
google avatar

Sarah A.

Yelp
I had a very cool experience at Black Swan! I went to one of their heated yoga classes which was a lot of fun. Also went to one of their monthly gong bath events which was especially stellar. It was like nothing I'd ever done before. There was a bit of yoga involved mainly in the beginning and a little at the end. But most of the class was focused on relaxing, breathing, and soaking in the various sounds. The instructor walked around the classroom with different sounds at certain points to heighten the experience. I'd definitely recommend going to one of their sound bath events! Outside of their events, their yoga classes are available as passes or you can drop into a class via a donation (you decide how much you want to donate but the suggested donation is $10).

Rhonda A.

Yelp
Excellent yoga studio. The instructors are all fantastic and they each offer their own individual style, so classes never feel repetitive or boring. The studio is warm, friendly and very roomy to accommodate a large number of students. I can't recommend Biack Swan enough. it's just a wonderful place to practice yoga.
google avatar

Amanda F.

Yelp
I have been to Black Swan Yoga a few times since I have lived in Austin (which has been over 3 years now). Black Swan is a donation-based yoga studio. You do have the option of buying a membership that will set you back about $88 a month for unlimited yoga. You can easily book your classes online. Today I went for free yoga day in Austin. Rachel was the yoga teacher and I loved her! She had amazing energy and really made me feel comfortable in my yoga practice. Overall, this is a hot yoga studio. So be prepared to sweat and or swear a few words under your breath. Bring a towel, water, and a mat. They have yoga blocks and straps for additional support you can use in during your practice. It does have a slight sweat smell but ummm it is hot yoga with tons of people in an enclosed space! Also, you will hear the occasional fart being released during yoga poses. Try not to laugh at your loud neighbor's butt.
google avatar

Kristina I.

Yelp
I loved the classes that I took at BSY! I stopped in twice while in Austin visiting my sister. I definitely wouldn't consider it hot yoga, but the room was warm and I worked up a nice sweat during the classes. The sunday 9 AM class was very full which added to the heat in the room.
google avatar

Kayky K.

Yelp
VERY1st week my dog persistently letting me know .it was Black swan Yoga day... And too get my butt out of Cuz lil did I know it would be the best money well spent...that was loooonngg over due. Thank goodness for places like "BLACK SWAN "

Nathan C.

Yelp
Great teacher and inspiring class. As I lay in Savasana, my stress melting away, my eyes drifted over to the prominent text on the wall: a generic, inspirational quote about breathing out fear and breathing in strength, in big block letters. Emblazoned under the message was the man who (apparently) coined it, Aubrey Marcus, the owner of BSY. The egotism of this is really something I can't let go. Is it not enough to financially oversee this franchise, and to have all your Onnit gear on every shelf? Why "Brand-Jack" the whole scene as well? Most might shrug this off, but I've seen this sort of personality-centric "mindfulness" business model get way out of hand, especially in LA. Slow your roll, bro. Enjoy your money and find another way to harvest the fruits of this community without having to take spiritual ownership of it. These things matter!

Lina Y.

Yelp
Unfortunately the more I come here the more I feel that these flows are WAY too fast and teachers are inexperienced. I'm not new to yoga and if I leave a class (left a Sunday Flow) it's not because I can't hack it it's because your flow is manic and chaotic, aka not beneficial to me. How am I supposed to be centered when you're flow is all over the place? Putting us in poses for less than a breath, also warrior 3 probably shouldn't be one of your first 3 poses, having the class on their backs in the middle of class is counterintuitive and should happen right before savasana. It pays to slow down on a Sunday morning.
google avatar

Joan Y.

Yelp
Been a BSYogi for some years now... familiar w a lot of teachers my first class with Lizzie A Thursday makes me not want to go back...Great class, creative and playful; music choice left a lot to be desired. Came in early to get a moments to myself to hear N*GGER over and over again louder than my inner thoughts over the speakers. After class, I asked her if it was an error, and let her know it offended me. She then asked me WHY - do I have to tell you my husband is black and our child is mixed to let it sink in white people also dont appreciate the N word??? She let me know she "respected my opinion" but will continue to perpetuate racism and play music featuring the N word in what should be a place everyone feels respected and supported. MAJOR FAIL. A "vulgar vinyasa" is one thing but racist garbage on blast is not something I'll support or "donate" to. I will miss you BSY.
google avatar

Valerie P.

Yelp
I couldn't be more thankful that when I last minute decided to try and make it to a class here, my instructor was Dee! How am I just meeting this woman?! She pushed us just far enough (my legs were definitely shaking!) but it was her energy and her words that made this class so special today. Laying in savasana I had tears rolling across my face as I connected with what she had to say. What a great way to begin the year. THANK YOU DEE for your brightness and humor along with creating a space where we can all be vulnerable and grow. Well shoot...I need to update my review because Bryce was freaking fantastic!!!!!!! Dee and Bryce have it down perfectly to balance challenging postures but throwing some funny comments to make everyone laugh as well. Anyone who hasn't taken one of their classes...NEEDS TO! Thank you also to Black Swan Yoga for remaining donation based so it is affordable!
google avatar

Nikhila R.

Yelp
This is my go to spot for yoga in Austin. I have taken many different flow classes here all at different levels. What I enjoy is that each and every instructor I have encountered has been very encouraging and everyone in the class is also very supportive as I wobble my way through tree pose. Its the warm inviting atmosphere that keeps me going back.
google avatar

Brianna E.

Yelp
This is the coolest yoga studio! I love that the lights are very low, and change colors slowly. The darkness makes the room really peaceful. Black swan yoga has two really cool murals that add to the vibe, very ATX. This place gives me motivation to work out, plus the accept ClassPass!
google avatar

Ralphia L.

Yelp
I'm not a huge yogi, but have been trying to work yoga practice into my life for health reasons. I've always struggled to practice regularly, but black swan somehow has got me hooked. The studio is spacious (though dark), the instructors are friendly and knowledgeable, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the hot yoga practice is a good balance of calming and challenging (avoiding being too boring or too stressful). As a newbie, I don't feel embarrassed about being a little behind or looking around to make sure I have the poses right. Some instructors are better than others about giving attention and making sure you're doing it right. The cost is pay what you wish, with a suggested donation of $10-15; I'm currently on a sabbatical (i.e. no income) and no one has ever made me feel bad for what I worry is a low donation. Definitely recommend this place!
google avatar

Beejoli S.

Yelp
Oh Black Swan on one hand I love what you guys are doing and stand for it, on the other, your all levels classes vary so wildly I've left a few happy and I've left more than a few midway through in tears, with instructors who didn't even mind that someone was struggling so hard they were openly weeping in class and had to leave. Five stars because I really do like your studio and hate people who tank small business with individual complaints, but cmon dudes, ask your male instructors to be more, I dunno, inclusive, I guess. Feeling like a failure and being laughed out of class is not a great start to the weekend. :(
google avatar

Natalie H.

Yelp
This is by far my favorite yoga studio that I consistently go to. It's so reliable, they offer lots of time slot options, and there is ample parking. All of the instructors are great, but my favorites I've had the opportunity to take classes from are Rachel Frank and Ivy!
google avatar

Brenda G.

Yelp
I'm a classpass gal and BSY is part of my morning weekend routines. I usually stick to spin and strength training during the week but like to soothe my sore muscles with a little BSY pick me up on Saturday or Sunday's. I love Rachel's classes (she throws in a quirky joke here and there) but overall I've never been unhappy with any of the instructors. They're all great! And like others have mentioned this space is welcoming of all levels.

Shelby B.

Yelp
I love this yoga studio. Every class I go to I think it's the best one I've ever been to and they always get better. No matter what teacher, it's always great and the studio is nice and warm and dark and cozy
google avatar

Christina C.

Yelp
So dissapointed with the change up. Nothing peaceful at all at a place that was once a reliable sanctuary. I hope the ONNIT mgmt pays attention to the consensus and at best pays homage by offering one class like those of its yesteryear's. 3 stars for being donation based, but I won't be returning.
google avatar

Amy D.

Yelp
I recently ventured to South Austin to check out Black Swan's recently opened second location. The new location is in a building with sort of a warehouse feel to it. When you walk into either door, you are literally standing in the spacious studio. My favorite classes at Black Swan are sweaty yoga and power yoga. Unfortunately at the new location sweaty yoga is not offered. I can only assume that this is due to the efforts it would take to heat up such a large space. I practiced power yoga during my visit and the class was great. The instructor, Meagan, did a great job guiding us through the practice and my body felt it the next day. I love that Black Swan is a donation based studio that allows you to pay in cash or credit card with easy to pay stations. They also provide mats, towels and water for a minimal fee. The ambiance that the downtown location is lost from the this location. I am also not a fan of practicing on cement floors 1. because I lack balance and could hurt myself and 2. the mat moves around with the lack of grip from the floor. I am glad that South Austin has a new donation based studio but considering that 5th street location is a mere 5 miles away, I will likely be sweating at the downtown location.
google avatar

Ashley V.

Yelp
I don't have time to write down all of the benefits from black swan. I started yoga in 2016. Starting Yoga and BSY in particular, has been one of the best decisions I've made for self improvement, cause let's get real, we should all be continuously self improving. I Love the warm inviting atmosphere,. ALL of the instructors have been incredible, they have different strengths and you figure out which instructor is good for you in your current place in your practice. Either way it's about self improving, growing, "inhaling truth and exhaling fear." If your check BSY or some Form of yoga you are doing a disservice to yourself *drops mic
google avatar

Sarah F.

Yelp
I have been looking for an amazing studio since moving to Austin and I am thrilled I tried this place! When I said I was new to the studio everyone was so welcoming and explained that they were completely donation based. I took the hot yoga flow and felt so strong and inspired after leaving class. I went with a. Friend and we could Not stop discussing how amazing we felt after class! I loved the studio so much I have gone back each day this week. I also tried their hot onnit class. It is AMAZING! I cannot wait to check out more instructors at this amazing studio!
google avatar

Micaela G.

Yelp
I am particularly fond of this location... super extra bonus points for ease/amount of parking. There is also a lot of space inside the studio and you won't end up being stuck back in a corner by yourself like you might downtown. It also never gets too hot in here (probably helps that it's not overcrowded like woah). They also have varying styles of instructors and lots of class times so it's really easy to catch one. As always, the donation based style is a fan favorite! See y'all soon!
google avatar

Angela R.

Yelp
I have a lot of yoga studio exploration yet to do in Austin, but this place is so reliably awesome that I've had trouble pulling myself away! Every one of the dozen+ classes I've attended -- with different instructors, on different dates -- has been great. I'm always guaranteed a nice sweat and leave feeling rejuvenated. It doesn't provide the spiritual and connected feeling of some other yoga classes, but I don't mind that since I go to this place with the expectation of getting a solid work-out. The temperature at Black Swan Yoga is not Bikram-style hot, but is definitely very warm. That suits me just fine, but for those that cringe in seeing lakes of sweat on mats...consider yourself warned.
google avatar

Evelyn P.

Yelp
If you're a novice to yoga like I am, I highly recommend starting out at Black Swan Yoga. This studio attracts a wide range of people at all different skill levels. At the beginner's class in particular, there are plenty of men and women of all ages. I've never felt like the "odd one out" at any of these classes, which was always my biggest fear. It doesn't matter if you don't have Athleta or Lulumon workout clothes. It doesn't matter if you're not flexible and completely out of out shape. If you're committed to challenging yourself and strengthening your body, you'll have a good experience at Black Swan. I've already started to see vast results in my flexibility. I've been attending Joy's beginner class the last ten Sunday afternoons. I like her a lot--she's a great "ambassador" to the yoga world to people who are giving it a try for the first time. She has a very positive attitude and truly inspires you to push yourself. Each week's class is very different from the next. I never feel like I'm having the same work out, which helps to hold my interest. If you're looking for the tl;dr or Buzzfeed version of this review, I'm happy to oblige you: -Bring your own yoga mat, sweat rag, and $10-$15 donation -Arrive 10-15 minutes early if you're particular about where you stand in the studio -Be mentally prepared to sweat. Black Swan keeps in the thermostat well into the eighties -Don't fret about appearances. None of the students are judging you about your old work out clothes or shitty yoga mat from TJ Maxx
google avatar

Dandie D.

Yelp
Westgate BSY is my favorite in all of Austin. The room is very large and accommodating for all the amazing classes and workshops they have. I love Monday morning flow with Heather MC, she does a great job of instructing you in during the class without being too overpowering so that you can really focus on your breathing and form. I highly recommend this place is you're new to yoga or are looking for a new place to practice.
google avatar

Heather M.

Yelp
WOW, so disappointed with BSY. I signed up for a month membership and was told I could cancel at anytime. I have been trying to cancel my membership for FIVE days. No one answers their customer service phone number. No one responds to emails. I have had to call my bank to report a fraudulent charge. DO NOT SIGN UP FOR A MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP UNLESS YOU WANT TO SPEND HOURS TRYING TO CANCEL. Ridiculous.
google avatar

D. R.

Yelp
I'm relatively new to yoga and have felt very comfortable attending the classes at Black Swan. The instructors are very courteous. Flow class was challenging, but a fun workout. Beginner was a little boring (lots of breathing). I appreciate the very loose "spiritual" / gratitude thing they have going on (it's not too new-agey or weird for me). Westgate location is great because it's very spacious inside and there's plenty of parking right outside the door.
google avatar

Jennie K.

Yelp
My first time doing yoga...although I had done some pilates before so I was better of than my man who WILLINGLY accompanied me. Although they say pay what you can, it was made pretty clear that no less than $10 was acceptable. Also, mat rental is $2, separate from your donation. It was a wonderful beginning to the day, even though sometimes it felt like my left leg was going to crumple beneath me. I went to a flow morning class. The music was soothing, and the instructor did more talking us through the moves than demonstration of poses. It was both a good workout and a good stretch - but I'm anxious to try more! Everyone there seemed to be nonjudgemental and focused, which I appreciated because I probably looked like an idiot. But I'll be back to work on it!
google avatar

Emily V.

Yelp
The best shape I've ever been in is when I practiced at Black Swan Yoga 2-3 times a week for several months in a row. Although i lost some of my yoga mojo once I started working longer hours, I still attend classes when I can. *Perspiration warning: I love the feeling of sweating out toxins, but if you don't like to sweat, this is NOT the studio for you. I always bring water and a towel. What I love about Black Swan is: (1) the great instructors, (2) the fact that it's donation-based, and (3) how amazing I feel afterward! (1) When I had a gym membership, the thought of a treadmill waiting for me in a smelly room was rarely enticing enough to get me out of the house. But when I'm pulling on my yoga pants for a class at Black Swan, I get excited to hit the mat with instructors who genuinely want to share their passion and positivity with their students. (2) Since the studio is donation-based, you're not obligated to shell out $20 per class. Pretty nice if you're on a budget. (3) When I walk out of the studio after class, I always feel like a million bucks. No other workout has given me the kind of emotional and physical release that I experience from yoga, and when I walk out of Black Swan, I feel RADIANT.
google avatar

Karen E.

Yelp
Nice studio and with just a donation (suggested $10-15) you get a great workout. I definitely will be back and I love I can come anytime without having to make a contractual commitment. Worth checking out while you're in Austin!!
google avatar

ChaCha W.

Yelp
What a great group of people! All the instructors put a little of their own personality into the instruction. so you might find one you like more than another. But they are all top notch: David T., Adam M. Rachel F., Joy T., and Madilyn M. are all fine instructors. I tend to go to lots of classes taught by Erica C. because she just has a great sense of pace and intuition about where the class is at any particular moment. It's like she knows what's in my head and says exactly what I need to hear next to get the most out of the practice. I'm glad to see that she is teaching more classes. On several occasions I have been pleasantly surprised to learn that one of my friends is a fan of BSY. They tell me that they too find every instructor they've ever had at BSY to be really knowledgeable and fun. I started in June of 2013 with Mellow classes (which they seem to no longer offer unfortunately). My creeky bones, and extra padding around the middle made me very concerned about showing up to a class full of slender, bendy 20-somethings. I need not have feared. There's a good mix of ages, gender, and skill levels. (And those youngsters really are respectful.) The instructors seem attuned to individual needs (even though classes are typically about 15 people). Over the last year, I've been to dozens of classes of various types and with various instructors, and they all rock. I mean, really... I have never had a class at BSY that wasn't worthwhile - and it's even better now that I have less padding around my mid-section, and I'm more bendy. (Working my way up to handstands this summer.) Please keep these guys in business. I don't want to have to look for another studio!
google avatar

Carolyn S.

Yelp
Perhaps my expectations were elevated, after being pleasantly surprised at Courtney's Hatha Yoga class at the downtown location on Monday. I was eager to try another BSY class, and, despite being at 8:30 in the morning on a weekend, I rushed over to the new studio to try the Vinyasa Yoga class listed on their schedule. Well, it looks like the online-schedule needs to be updated, because the "Vinyasa" class was actually a Power Yoga class, which I was not prepared for! While I am not totally inflexible, I definitely was not ready to do head stands or side planks, first thing Saturday morning. Plus, the instructor was pregnant, so she could not demonstrate the various poses, which made for a lot of head-turning for me, in order to figure out what the various yoga names meant. While it's not the instructor's fault that the schedule listed the wrong class, I made the effort and time to attend a Vinyasa class, expecting to have more time to focus on clearing my mind, breathing and moving more slowly through stretches and poses. The Power Yoga class moved at a faster pace, which, I am assuming, is the nature of that class. Each pose was held only for about 15-20 seconds, before moving through to another one. There was little time for mental rest or for explanations about poses. The class ended in Savasana, and I lay there, disappointed at how I spent the last hour. My neck and upper-back muscles were actually more tense than when I arrived to class. I did appreciate the instructor's help with my Triangle Pose, and she adjusted my posture for better alignment. The class was small enough (9 students) for her to walk around and attend to each person as needed. The new studio is sleek, with dark undertones, and fairly spacious, in an open, warehouse-type feel. There're doors on either side of the studio, allowing for a nice, feng-shui flow, I guess (and I am, totally guessing). Class faces the windows that face the parking lot and freeway, though, but I'm sure that in the evenings, when the candles are lit, the ambiance may be more mellow. Just like the downtown studio, there are plenty of mats and towels for rent ($2), bottled water and Gatorade for purchase, and blocks and blankets for support -- all for the generous, "suggested donation" of $10-15. Overall, while I was disappointed with the start of my day today (please update the online schedule!), I appreciate Black Swan Yoga's philosophy of making yoga accessible to all, and I will likely return for another class (though with more caution and research).
google avatar

Heather J.

Yelp
Austin has a great yoga community and Black Swan is at the center of it. I want a strong vinyasa with good music and teaching. Black Swan delivered dog down! I love their donation based concept. Bright, open, urban studio.
google avatar

Amber L.

Yelp
I give 4 stars! Black swan is teaching Austin about yoga. Then go to another studio. This is not a traditional yoga place at all. It is trendy hip and not what you will get a more serious studio. I go there to work out and stretch. I go there to practice yoga but to be spiritually filled? Black Swan is just a place to start not to think it's what yoga has really been for thousands of years. They are a new hip type of work out yoga. I've taught fitness for 6 years. I've travelled the world and I've practiced yoga for 15 years. Black swan im grateful for. It's helping Americans find yoga and think it's cool. Is it like real? Sort of more like a modification of what yoga has always been to me. There isn't much meditation aromas or peace there. It's more like cool, hip, fun, unique and a good place to work out. Be well all you yogis out there!!

Marsha H.

Yelp
i went to black swan for a long time before i moved away. when i came back two years ago, the entire structure was different. the one time of day i was able to go was instructed by a male instructor that had tunnel vision for fit young attractive females. i thanked him for the practice on multiple occasions upon leaving and he practically ignored me and moved his gaze to women who are in shape and DONT NEED EXTRA ATTENTION. ive never felt worst leaving a yoga class than when i walked in until today. i'm not a size zero, young, fit, blonde. i deserve guidance and mere acknowledgement of my presence IN THE VERY LEAST. ive had other experiences with female instructors that were great. but whoever the male chiropractor at the westgate location is- he's a superficial, honey, unspiritual fraud whose values are against everything "yoga" stands for
google avatar

Whitney B.

Yelp
Great vibe and energy here. More laid back than other studios if you're late for a class you can still hop in. Classes are donation based and of course is going to a great cause. Class levels are good for beginners to intermediate yogis.
google avatar

America M.

Yelp
Black Swan Yoga- I went to 'Rave Yoga' on Friday night. Definitely different to any of your previous yoga experience. First, it is hard to fine, their sign is a sticker. I did make a comment [I was a bit brash] to the guy working there that they needed a bigger sign, he actually said 'what sign?' Yes, exactly! The class is donation base [about $15-20]. They start with yoga poses but you are free to move however your body tells you to move. After sometime doing yoga the rave part began. They cranked the tunes and people just took off running and dancing like wild children. You have to be very comfortable just doing whatever you want and not caring about yourself or others. If you want to somersault across the floor- you do it! For the most part, no one was embarrassed or worried about others, you were there for yourself. Cons about the class- you do need to be careful. I got whacked in the face 3 times from people just going mad with their dance. The music was ok but needed a bit of work. They played a gong at the end of class that was uncomfortably loud. I would go again for sure, not every Friday, but definitely again.
google avatar

Jonelle C.

Yelp
Just left Dee's class feeling amazing. She is a beautiful soul and an amazing teacher. The class was challenging and enlightening. Love this studio and appreciate all there amazing teachers. Thanks Dee!
google avatar

Juan D.

Yelp
This place is awesome. Donation based yoga is where it's at. I love doing Yoga in a studio setting but hate the prices most places see fit to charge. Since when did yoga get to be an endeavor only for college students still on the dole and trophy wives perpetually on someone's dole? (I'm talking to you Yoga Yoga!!) BSY hit the nail on the head with this business model. The south studio has tons of room and most of the instructors are awesome, and I always get a great workout. The only reason I'm not giving it 5 stars is because I would like to see more variety of yoga disciplines offered, and I (rarely but sometimes) get an instructor who isn't that great. Other than that, this place is the best yoga studio in the ATX.
google avatar

Taylor B.

Yelp
This is an amazing yoga studio! I love that they offer Sweaty, Flow and ONNIT Classes. There's something for everyone. The instructors are knowledgable and encouraging. I always get a great workout. I recently attended a meditation workshop here! It was fantastic, full of great people and energy! Love love love this place.
google avatar

Tatiana G.

Yelp
Love this yoga studio. The vibe is all about the yoga, not weird competitive my headstand is better then yours either. This is my go to in Austin if I have time .