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Tula Central
Categories: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Beauty and Spas Massage Yoga, Massage [Edit]
30 Duncan StToronto, ON M5V 2C3
Neighbourhoods: Entertainment District, Downtown Core
(416) 599-8852
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 7:30 am - 9 pm
Fri 10 am - 9 pm
Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm
Sun 10 am - 8 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Insurance:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
21 reviews for Tula Central
21 reviews in English
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Review from Raj B.
Toronto, ON
3/6/2012
I did a few trial classes and loved them! Not sure why so many people found the reception to be unfriendly. Maybe not too talkie, but I didin't think anyone was unfriendly.
I did a few Power Flow classes, which were a perfect level of difficulty (with different options for many asanas) and enough heat to leave you nice and sweaty!
Biggest complaint: maybe it's just me, but I found the ads in the bathroom and the one near the studio entrance (which is back-lit!) to be *really* annoying. I mean c'mon, I'm trying to find some inner peace here!
Anyways, the trial format made a lot of sense ($10 for first class, free second class), and now they've got me hooked to drop-in occasionally. -
Review from Sarah W.
Vancouver, BC
12/10/2011
I just recently came into Toronto and was looking for a yoga studio close by. I came across Tula Yoga and decided to go and check out the studio since it was very close to where I'm staying. I was a bit hesitant since the reviews appear to be very mixed but wanted to see it for myself. Please note, at this time I HAVE NOT TAKEN ANY CLASSES, I just went in for a tour and to discuss what type of classes there were.
The front desk staff were super helpful and friendly. I believe the owner was there as well as a guy named Neil. Both were very helpful and Neil was very encouraging and supportive. As a new student, you never know what to expect, but the first impression of the staff is great. I will certainly be coming in to try a class. Not sure why there are so many reviews indicating that people are rude, etc... I have only been in once, but will update if my experience should change. I would also have to agree that the prices are a bit high, but there is such a great variety of classes to choose from. They also have community classes at a reduced rate of $12.00 for those who don't have the budget to attend such a place.
The only reason I've given it 4 stars is because I haven't tried a class yet! But I'm excited to try one!
EDIT : I have attended 4 classes this past week and have officially changed my rating to a 5 star! Instructors are fabulous, knowledgeable and certainly make you feel welcomed in the class. This place is worth a try and when I am back in the city, I will be sure to come back for more! -
Review from Lina B.
Toronto, ON
5/4/2012
I have never written a review before but today i feel its necessary!
I scheduled an ultimate detoxifier spa treatment at Tula for $115 + Tax - expecting to leave fully relaxed after a 90 min session- i left pissed off 30 minutes EARLY.
1) They didn't have me on schedule and made my treatment start 30 min LATE - even through i called two hours earlier to confirm the time. I arrived 5 mins early to be told i had to wait 30 min.
2) The room was not very hygienic
3) The lady rushed through the service - the sea salt scrub was fine- not a lot of coverage with the seaweed wrap - and the lymphatic drainage was uncomfortable
4) i was supposed to have a scalp massage while the sea weed wrap dried - that didn't happen - the lady just left me there for 20 mins
5) The shower was disgusting- not private- people coming in and out using the toilet etc
6) By the end of it i looked at the clock and it had only been 60 mins NOT 90 mins.
7) When i went to the front desk and ask them what happened they said it was because they were behind schedule and had an appointment after me. The owner was there and said nothing!!!! HORRIBLE customer service- not even a discount!!!!
8) I am very disappointed with Tula and i DO NOT recommend going there for ANY spa services EVER.
I planned to relax and now i just feel cheated. -
Review from C Z.
Toronto, ON
5/10/2012
I don't know what the big deal is with this studio... rooms are small (one of them actually have all their props in it, occupying a good chunk of the room), staff isn't friendly and classes are alright. Had a treatment at the spa and it was good. I personally prefer studios like Yogatree and Moksha.
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Review from Allan R.
Toronto, ON
3/4/2012
As I enter this place the guy at the front desk (who unfortunately i believe is the owner) was extremely rude. I showed him my voucher and without even taking the time to fully read through the voucher he jumps the gun and ass-umes it isn't valid (it was totally valid and he was pretty embarrassed - duh). He had no qualms with expressing some hostility. Not exactly the most professional person in the world. Basically just abrasive and disgruntled. Hopefully he is not like this everyday. As they say "you never get a second chance to make a first impression". The rest of the staff that we saw were friendly, and the particular woman we dealt with was excellent. This place would've gotten a MUCH higher rating if not for that bad experience. Moral of the story is... a wee bit of customer service goes a long way.
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Review from Allison D.
Toronto, ON
8/30/2011
Ah, Tula.
I used my Passport class last week to attend the Hip Hop yoga class at Tula Central. Just a short ways off Queen west, it's quite central (...thus the name?) and easily accessible. I felt the same sense of welcome as I did at Tula west (see the review of west for a better sense of that sense of "welcome" as well as the descriptions from other reviewers; it's generally unwelcoming); I was shown where the studio my class was in, the change room and washroom, and was off and running.
The rooms at central seemed smaller, a little more cramped; the change room was certainly a difference, and the showers were not obvious (I originally did not think there were any, but after being contacted by the owners and informed that there is in fact a shower in the location, I will alter this point).
The class itself was... interesting. "Team taught" by 3 different instructors (one of whom was Amber :) ), yoga-ing to that which I listen to while running. And the dancing; yoga is one of the few times I'm still, and I don't know how I feel about changing that up. Also, do you realize how hard it is to bounce while in dancers pose??? REALLY hard! But still an all around good class.
Another realization I've had in the last little while (and this applies to all the Tula studios): the pricing at Tula seemingly specifically is exhorborant! I'm looking to other studios closer to my new home, and realizing that the $310 for the 20 class card is WAY more than any other studio!! The average price at almost every other studio is $250 ($220 at Yoga Sanctuary to $260 at Kula or Yogaspace. Even Downward Dog is only $240, and Moksha, another hot studio, is $250). There is clearly a price-service differential and Tula would be thoughtful to reconsider their pricing; it's the last strike against this member.Listed in: Passport to Prana - Checking…
Comment from Isabel L. of Tula Central 9/5/2011
Hello Allison, First of all, WE DO in fact offer showers in… More » -
Review from Jennifer K.
Markham, ON
Updated - 3/4/2011 3 photos
I have to declare Tula Central HOT yoga class is the HOTTEST yoga classes I been to!!
I took advantage of the $10 for first class and 2nd class for free... and join my fellow yoga "who loves it HOT because she is hot" yelper for a yoga meet up.
The class was packed, to max... but still have enough space for me to move around without hitting others. But in that kind of heat and humidity I just don't want to move!! I cannot even lay down in peace.. because the air was so humid and I could not breathe....... hot hot hot...
A couple of the students left the room and never came back, I really have to control my urges of just jumping up and leave and go out in the cold winter night!Listed in: Yoga Studios I visited in…, Some like it HOT! Or They are…, A Day in the Entertainment…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/24/2009
The Passport to Prana brought me to Tula Central.
This is a busy studio! When I went in the front… Read more »
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Review from Laura C.
Toronto, ON
7/26/2010
The class itself was ok, but I wasn't impressed with the facilities and some other aspects of my experience. They have a really good variety of classes, and is one of the only studios in the heart of downtown/financial district. No wonder they are so full.
THE FACILITIES
The front entrance was busy. Shoes everywhere (could have a shelf) for shoes, so that shoes didn't have to take up almost the whole surface area of the front desk area.
As new students, everyone got a mini tour of where things were.
The bathrooms and change rooms are small. There are 2 rooms, one with 2 toilets and 2 showers, and 2 small benches for changing. The other room has 2 benches, but is still small. You can leave your mat in the storage shelves, but it makes for a very messy looking storage room. There are 5 small lockers in this room.
You can hang your mats in the racks on the hallway, but there was no spray for me to use. The area is quite small and with 40 people coming out of a class it makes for a traffic jam.
The waiting area has some nice couches, and tea. There is also a water machine to refill your bottles (except it ran out of water)
THE CLASS (hot hatha)
The class finishes about 5 mins before the next one starts. I wasn't sure who was still in there in Savasana and who was leaving.
One thing that really turned me off was the fact people were allowed to bring their purses into the room. BIG purses.
Not only was the place crowded, and mats were not placed to optimize space, but with big bags around me, it takes up a ton of space.
The class was simliar to moksha yoga, but with longer holds, and none of the strengthening aspects and more focus on the stretching. (no vinyasa and short chair pose and warriors)
I also did not understand why in the middle of the class we were asked to turn our mats for the warrior and balancing series. It disrupted the class, and for what? No one can see the mirror anyway, it's so crowded. Why not just stay in place. Also when I did the balancing series it made no sense and I was dripping sweat on my friend's mat behind me.
I also wish the instructor would find out who were beginners in the class, and cater to them. helping them to feel comfortable, and explaining the postures to better understand our bodies. This is the first studio I've seen that didn't help out the beginners or identify themselves to the teacher. It really helps when someone can explain the benefits of the savasana for example.
I also was shocked when I put my ear to the floor to hear every single stomp from people walking around outside, and upstairs. Quite distracting.
Also, this is the first place I've been when 1/4 the people left before the final Savasana.
Other than these technicalities, the instructor was great.
The place gets extra .5 for having such a variety of classes. Although I may not come back to this location, I'd still like to give the other location a try. -
Review from Zoe R.
1/17/2011
update on my change of heart (2 to 4 stars):
I've contacted the owner directly, and she helped figure things out.
This makes a huge difference!
pros: actual building (love the hot room; the look of it as you're lying on your back and staring out the window/at the ceilings); downtown location;
great instructors.
cons: not too many. As with Jamie W., Donna M., Roma M., the front desk service was unwelcoming. Particularly from that one man who was dismissive, seemed harried. He seems out of place in such a zen place with an otherwise positive vibe.
~~~~~
I def. would go again, b/c the hot yoga classes are v. good, but I will be as speedy as possibly to avoid the front desk as much as possible. -
Review from Roma M.
Updated - 9/4/2010
Came here with the intention of trying another class. The service at the front was so downright bad I didn't even want to stay for the class.
I will try again, but I really don't see how the attitude came about in the first place.Listed in: Yoga Fire!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/24/2010
I have to first of all agree with Kat F., since I took a 75 minute Hot Hatha class, and I also do… Read more »
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Review from Donna M.
Toronto, ON
10/28/2010
Service at the desk is typically horrid. Expect cold, short, unfriendly or a combination.
As far as hot yoga goes, the studio has a pretty broad offering of classes. (There are different studios to choose from). It is largely because of the large number of options (times) that I visit Tula. However, I am not a regular of hot yoga.
The instructors are really good. Wait room and change rooms are tiny, especially considering the size of the studio.
Classes in the evening are jammed packed, except for the later (8:30ish) classes. However, by that time the room is so hot from all of the previous evening classes that run back to back.
Definitely not for the faint of heart. Start with a shorter class (60 mins) if you are new to hot yoga or find heat, tight spaces or people in your space a challenge. -
Review from Ashley S.
Toronto, ON
4/8/2009
I really enjoyed the Tula studio for one of my very first hot yoga classes. I apologize, but I will have to correct Kat F. because she stated that this studio specializes in Bikram yoga. This is in fact not true because Bikram yoga is a specific type of hot yoga that does 26 poses in each and every class. Tula is not a Bikram studio because they offer other kinds like Hatha and Ashtanga. Hot yoga does not always equal Bikram yoga. Bikram is a type of hot yoga although I believe that Bikram was the first one to introduce yoga in a hot studio.
Anyways, back to Tula..very quaint studio. I like how they offer one class for $10 and the next class free. I mean, $5 for a drop-in is very cheap! The hot yoga room is a nice size, not too big and not too small. I enjoyed the class a lot because it wasn't too intimidating for a beginner yet an advanced yogi could easily change up the intensity of the poses. Make sure you bring lots of water because you literally do sweat tons!
Just the one negative...the change rooms are really tiny!! And when there's a class finishing and one starting, it makes it even tinier! So don't bring too many things!
Arrive early because you have to fill in some forms and get settled. Drink lots of water prior to the class. Keep an open mind!! Have fun!! -
Review from Starr W.
Scarborough, ON
2/5/2010
This studio is located in a convenient area directly in the middle of the entertainment district. There is such a cool and hip vibe about the place that I absolutely love!
The class I took was a Hot Yin Yoga class, which basically means that it focuses more on the stillness of the pose (they're held for anywhere from 1-5 minutes). It was 50 minutes long which is short for my liking but I felt so good after I came out because it's perfect for relaxed deep stretching. There weren't many people in the class (only because it was before work had ended), maybe 5 or 6 but the class afterward had about 20 yogis coming in. And this was on a weekday evening!
Once again, the only downside is that the changeroom was teeny tiny, you could only fit maybe 5 or 6 people in there at one time without bumping into one another. The washroom was modern and well sized with nice clean showers!
The number one thing that is always on the top of my list when I come to a studio is the helpfulness of the staff. After I had filled in my forms, a tour was given of all the rooms which was particularly nice.
Tula Central is just a great place to be to try out any type of yoga! -
Review from Laz C.
Toronto, ON
1/16/2012
Another punch on my passport, I went to a lunchtime pilates class at Tula central. Apparently this was good timing because it was not at all crowded. The front desk staff was very friendly and gave me a quick tour of the facility while showing me to the change room -- a small but appreciated gesture. The studio itself was pretty small so I can see how it could easily get disruptively crowded (ala Kula) at a busier hour. But on my visit there were only five people in the class. We had a lot of space and the instructor was able to check in on everyone to correct form. The sequences were a little too gentle for me, I had been expecting a more challenging class or to feel just a little burn. Still a pleasant experience. I plan to go back next time the passport rolls around or to take advantage of the two classes for $10 intro special, though regular prices are too steep to lure me for non-promotional rates.
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Review from Kat T.
10/4/2009
Tula brought me back to Yoga after a LONG break. With it's convenient location minutes from the financial district, Osgoode subway and my 'hood, it's a hidden downtown oasis. There are 2 rooms, one is always hot and one is fits the definition of "room temperature".
They offer discounts to get you hooked, then prices go up on visit 3+. They have mats, towels (a must in the hot room) and water for sale/rent.
Classes of varying length have appropriate price structures. I feel stronger already after just a few classes. Although linked by name, the location on Bloor is different and passes cannot be used at both locations.
For people who know all the different yoga styles- this is actually Hot Hatha yoga, not Bikram, just sayin'.Listed in: Prana to Nirvana
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Review from Jennifer M.
Toronto, ON
8/17/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I have been coming here about once a week for 2 years or so. I love Hot Yoga. I go to yoga at my gym once a week or so during lunch hour, and it really does not compare.
I buy the class cards. If you sign up for their newsletter, Isabel (owner) sends a blast out every so often about a sale on the class cards. Its usually a pretty big savings, so I re-buy then. They come in 10 or 20. There is unlimited class packages as well for the diehard yogis.
Tula is very busy. The right after work classes are packed. If this is a problem, you may want to look for a different studio. I don't mind as long as everyone is accommodating. They have opened another (not hot?) studio a few floors up which may help.
Bring a Lock and use a locker, as another Yelper mentioned, the bags everywhere in the class is super annoying.
After coming for so long I have figured out which teachers are good and which to avoid. Isabel, Davian and Grace are all great. The Christine's are not bad. It REALLY depends on the style you like and which teaching style you prefer.
Its a good studio. Try Hot Hatha first, its the easiest to begin with.Listed in: Yoga Studios
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Review from Michael J.
7/23/2010
Stephanie: "Hey Michael, you should try doing Yoga since you're always complaining about your back being sore"
Me; thinking to myself: "What the hell does learning how to spit and breathe fire have anything to do with my lower back problems"
Me: "um...yeah...sure...okay..."
Needless to say, apparently "Yoga" is just some specialized form of stretching. I was very, very disappointed to learn this because i was excited to learn how to spit and breathe fire.
Dhalsim...you lied to me.
But on a review note, the place is actually very nice. Spacious enough to make you not feel cramped, and the people who work there are very nice. Even if they don't breathe fire. -
Review from Em L.
Toronto, ON
3/17/2010
After reading online about the Bikram 60-day Challenge, I decided to embark on a challenge of my own. It's at that point that I learned that maybe Bikram itself might not be for me... but I was up for trying my personally modified 30 days of hot yoga challenge and Tula fit the bill perfectly.
Upon walking into the studio, I felt... welcomed. I'm no experience yogi by any stretch (haha!) of the imagination, but I've been to a number of yoga studios in my time and as a total beginner to hot yoga, I did not for a moment feel out of place or inadequate for my super newb status. For me, it's been uphill from there.
My preferred classes are Hot Hatha and Hot Hatha Flow, but only because I feel like I can actually have some hope of achieving most of the poses in those classes. The other classes? Well... I do my best. But the heat in all cases certainly helps to make my body a bit more bendy than usual.
The room used for the hot classes is beautiful, as it's already been mentioned by others and it's surprising how many people can fit into the space on a busy Saturday or Sunday morning. I attended one 'after-work' class and that was packed full also. But my preferred time for classes is first thing in the morning where there are definitely less patrons and also the instructors are really great. Too bad there aren't more people to enjoy these classes!
Speaking of which, I do think it is the people at Tula who make it the great place that it is and I know it's the reason why I keep going back. Not having been a particularly active person in the past, I've found at Tula a place and a practice that I feel I can do for life. (Whoa, look at me get all profound or something - haha!) -
Review from TJ A.
Toronto, ON
3/19/2011
It's true what other reviewers are saying, the studio really is beautiful. Teachers are for the most part good, and the room is well-heated. Downtown location is a plus. I can't comment on pricing, I had some cheap deal here and never returned after my 5 classes to pay full-price. The change rooms kind of wreck the experience for me a bit... I like to unwind and have a nice shower after hot yoga, but here it is pressed and they have tacky stuff all over the sink area. The showers are dark and it just feels kind of gross, like you want to hurry out of there. Good overall but it's not THE ONE.
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Review from Kat F.
4/4/2009 2 photos
Tula has two studios - this original location on Duncan as well as a new location just west of the Annex. As far as I know Tula is one of only two studios in Toronto that specializes in hot - aka Bikram - yoga (Active Yoga being the other) and it definitely has the leading edge. They have regular classes in addition to hot ones so if you're an absolute beginner I would recommend one of those to get primed on the poses beforehand. Bikram can be a bit intense if you don't know what to expect. And even if you do, it can be challenging, especially in the summer when you're already feeling steamy.
When I worked in the area I was hooked on Tula's Tuesday night community class, which was $10 and taught by this supercutie "Emma". Each class was pretty similar from week to week so I really got to know Emma's style and the order of the poses. She introduced me to the "pyramid pose" and "pigeon pose", which are both a killer runner's stretch that you will hate while you're doing them, but love later when you start enjoying better flexibility and fewer injuries. Then Emma suddenly went away and some other random teachers took over, so I switched to another, regular class with "Daniel", whose class was way advanced and intense. Like, all the men in the class would take off their shirts to expose fiercely hot bodies and most of the participants were longtime yoginis. I believe it was a hot ashtanga class whereas Emma's was a beginner hatha class. Daniel also did a lot of breath work and meditation at the end of the class.
Yes, you will sweat like a beast and a shower afterwards is an absolute must, but you will feel sooo good and limber. -
Review from Stas Z.
Toronto, ON
6/24/2009
Definitely one of my favorite studios in TO and the one I try to go to at least once a week. When I first discovered hot room yoga at Bikram studios I loved the hot room aspect but disliked the same poses done twice routine, so when Tula featured "Hatha yoga in hot room" concept I fell into instant love. One thing I like about this studio beside great classes is that you can store your mat there for free, although I heard they stopped this for new members due to running out of space. To Ashley's point - it's no problem for guys as there rarely more than 4 at any given class, but I always wondered how can 25 ladies get happily along in that tiny change room with 2 shower stalls?
