Overview
The Ashtanga Center of Greater Des Moines offers traditional Ashtanga yoga in a serene studio setting. Led by instructor Curtis, the center focuses on the primary series, providing a structured yet supportive environment for practitioners at all levels. Curtis’s teaching is known for its depth of knowledge, encouragement, and a balanced approach that combines physical challenge with mindfulness. Students appreciate his attentive feedback and the way he fosters individual growth. The atmosphere is both peaceful and energizing, with a strong sense of community among participants. Whether you are a beginner curious about Ashtanga or an experienced practitioner looking to refine your practice, the center offers a space to build strength, flexibility, and inner calm. Classes are designed to be rigorous yet accessible, with an emphasis on proper alignment and breath control. The studio itself is described as beautiful and inviting, contributing to a practice that feels both grounding and transformative. With a dedicated teacher and a welcoming community, the Ashtanga Center stands out as a place for genuine progress in yoga.
Studio Amenities
Studio Business Hours
| Day | Status | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Open | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Tuesday | Open | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Wednesday | Open | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Thursday | Open | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Friday | Open | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Saturday | Open | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm |
| Sunday | Closed | – |
Studio in Details
About the Center
Located in Des Moines, the Ashtanga Center of Greater Des Moines is a dedicated studio for the traditional practice of Ashtanga yoga. Led by Curtis, a deeply knowledgeable and committed teacher, the center offers a space where students can engage with this dynamic and structured form of yoga. The studio itself is described as beautiful and peaceful, providing a calm environment for both individual practice and group classes.
The center emphasizes the full Ashtanga method, including the primary series, and caters to a range of experience levels—from complete beginners to seasoned practitioners. Curtis is noted for his own dedication to the practice, which he brings into his teaching with warmth and precision. Reviews highlight his ability to challenge students while also offering encouragement and humor, creating a setting that feels supportive yet transformative.
Teaching Approach
Curtis’s teaching style is a blend of rigor and approachability. He provides clear, informative feedback and recognizes individual progress, which helps students build strength, flexibility, and confidence over time. His presence is described as strong and loving, and he balances the seriousness of Ashtanga with a lightheartedness that makes the studio culture feel less intense and more welcoming.
This approach resonates with those seeking both physical and mental growth. Students report that Curtis knows when to push and when to back off, and his personal experience with the practice informs attentive adjustments. The studio’s focus on traditional Ashtanga—following the established sequence and breath-based movement—ensures that practitioners receive an authentic experience while feeling guided every step of the way.
Visitor Experience
Visitors often comment on the strong sense of community at the center. The opportunity to practice alongside like-minded individuals enhances the experience, and many find that the collaborative atmosphere deepens their commitment. Beginners especially appreciate the gentle introduction to Ashtanga, noting that the studio makes the practice accessible without diluting its essence.
Overall, the center is viewed as a gem in Des Moines for anyone looking to explore or deepen their Ashtanga yoga journey. The combination of Curtis’s expertise, the serene space, and the supportive community makes each class both a workout and a mental reset. Students leave feeling challenged yet relaxed, often looking forward to the next class. Whether one is new to yoga or returning after time away, the Ashtanga Center provides a consistently rewarding experience.