New findings show yoga trailing well behind other fitness modalities in client experience, creating space for ambitious studios to shine
It’s the kind of finding that could shake any devoted yogi to their core: yoga studios, long seen as sanctuaries of connection and care, ranked dead last in global service ratings, according to The Fit Guide.
Launched in 2023 as the Zagat of the fitness world for its detailed ratings of gyms and studios, The Fit Guide evaluated more than 400 clubs worldwide and found yoga trailing all other modalities, including Pilates, cycling, strength and conditioning and barre.
What’s more, yoga has been the lowest-scoring category in every city The Fit Guide has visited to date.
The findings, drawn from more than 150,000 data points across six major fitness hubs (New York, London, Sydney, Singapore, Los Angeles and Dubai) show that even upscale yoga studios underperformed in key service metrics, from front desk engagement to instructor follow-up.
The Fit Guide found that only 27.3% of front desk staff used a client’s name during check-in, and just 18.5% asked first-time guests if they enjoyed the class. Instructors followed up with newcomers only 26.5% of the time, and just 54.3% performed any kind of injury check. Additional data showed that less than half (38.2%) of staff expressed “personal interest” in clients before or after class, and encouragement during class was observed in only 41.2% of visits.
A Few That Found Their Flow
Unlike modalities like cycling, where studios often cultivate a high-energy environment, many yoga spaces (though known for being low-key) fail to meet even basic service standards, the report suggests. But that’s not to say all yoga brands are falling short.
Standout performers include Yoga Movement in Singapore, which earned The Fit Guide’s Awards of Excellence at two of its locations, and Sweat Yoga in Santa Monica, praised for its attention to detail and thoughtful service. BodyEthos in Sydney also emerged as a top scorer, combining quality instruction with an attentive member journey.
Still, the data paints a picture of an industry perhaps coasting on culture and “vibes” rather than investing in client experience, particularly during the invisible moments before and after class that can build brand loyalty and a deeper connection.
A Moment to Realign
With yoga one of the most loved formats in fitness, the findings signal both a challenge and a strategic opportunity for operators, The Fit Guide points out. And, fortunately, it doesn’t take much.
“Hit the service basics and you’ll already be ahead of the pack,” the report noted. “Go above and beyond, and you’ll be a category leader.”
In an increasingly competitive boutique fitness space, small gestures like a warm greeting, a post-class check-in or instructors learning client names can create differentiation, especially for first-timers who may feel anxious or out of place.
While some may argue yoga’s ethos favors introspection over interaction, The Fit Guide’s findings suggest service still matters and may be the difference between a one-time drop-in and a lifelong member. As The Fit Guide continues evaluating clubs and studios to discover best-in-class operators, the message to yoga operators is clear: the mat isn’t the only place that needs mindfulness.
