Overview
Friendship Yoga is an Iyengar yoga studio in Iowa City, founded in 1993 by Nancy Footner. The studio offers a systematic, alignment-focused practice that is accessible to all ages and body types. Classes range from beginner to advanced, including a gentle Ageless class for those with physical limitations. The semester-based schedule includes multiple levels, and newcomers can try the first class for free. Registration is by email, and payment can be made by check, cash, or Venmo. The teaching team, led by Nancy Footner and including Jenn and Kirsten, has extensive training in the Iyengar method. The studio atmosphere is calm and supportive, with an emphasis on precise instruction and proper form. Reviews highlight the beneficial effects on back pain and overall well-being. Practical policies include the ability to attend a different class if absent, recordings for missed sessions, and a refund policy with fees. Students are asked to dress modestly, avoid scents, and not eat within two hours of class. With its dedicated approach and experienced teachers, Friendship Yoga provides a serious yet welcoming environment for yoga practice.
Yoga Format
Yoga Styles
Studio Amenities
Studio Business Hours
| Day | Status | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Closed | – |
| Tuesday | Open | 9:00 am – 7:30 pm |
| Wednesday | Open | 9:00 am – 7:30 pm |
| Thursday | Open | 9:30 am – 6:30 pm |
| Friday | Open | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm |
| Saturday | Closed | – |
| Sunday | Closed | – |
Studio in Details
Overview
Friendship Yoga has served Iowa City since 1993, offering Iyengar yoga under the guidance of founder Nancy Footner. The studio is located at 1231 Gilbert Court, with ample parking and changing space. Nancy began her studies in 1985 and has trained extensively, including multiple trips to the Iyengar Institute in India. The teaching team also includes Jenn and Kirsten, who study regularly with senior certified Iyengar teachers. The studio’s approach emphasizes precise alignment, systematic practice, and therapeutic benefits. Props and modifications make poses accessible to all ages, body types, and fitness levels. The atmosphere is calm, supportive, and focused—a contrast to chain gym classes. Serious students appreciate the depth of instruction and the emphasis on proper form. The studio follows the classical method of B.K.S. Iyengar, integrating breath and mindfulness into each posture. Classes cover the full range of asanas and end with quiet relaxation.
Classes and Levels
Friendship Yoga operates on a semester schedule. The Winter to Spring 2026 session runs from mid-January to mid-May with breaks. Classes are offered at four levels: Level 1 for beginners introduces basic seated poses, backbends, and shoulder stand; Level 2 is for those with a solid understanding of fundamentals; Level 3 challenges dedicated students with greater complexity and refinement; and Ageless is a gentler practice for those with physical limitations but strong spirit. Private classes for individuals or groups are also available. Newcomers can try the first class for free. Registration is by email, and payment is accepted by check, cash, or Venmo. Students who cannot attend their regular class may attend another of the same or lower level. Recordings are sent to absentees. Refunds are available before a cutoff with fees deducted. Classes start on time but may run slightly over.
Visitor Experience
The atmosphere at Friendship Yoga is calm, supportive, and professional. Students describe it as a serious practice where proper form is emphasized to avoid injury—a refreshing change from chain gyms. Props and adjustments ensure every student gets the most benefit, regardless of body type or ability. Reviews note that classes can run long with some instructors, but the focused environment, with no side conversations, helps maintain concentration. One student reported significant improvement in lower back pain after four years of practice under Nancy’s guidance. Others highlight the precise instructions, adaptability for different levels, and the sense of community. The studio requests modest dress, bare feet, and no scents or baggy clothes. It is best not to eat within two hours of class. Students with health concerns are advised to consult a professional before registering.