How to Open a Yoga Studio in 2025

If you’ve progressed from yoga student to experienced teacher, you may find yourself compelled to create your own yoga haven. The good news? The demand is there. The meditation and yoga industry is booming, currently valued at about $21.5 billion in the US and projected to reach $34.3 billion by 2035. More than 34 million Americans practiced yoga in 2023, sparking enthusiasm for new studios with new offerings.

But success takes more than devotion to Vinyasa flows or calming Yin sessions—it requires boots-on-the-ground market research, financial planning, and a studio atmosphere that makes first-timers instantly feel they’ve found their tribe. This guide breaks down the steps of how to open a yoga studio, from space considerations to marketing.

How to open a yoga studio

1. Nail down your vision and USP
2. Conduct market research
3. Figure out certification requirements
4. Make a business plan
5. Incorporate and register your business
6. Find a studio space
7. Get insurance
8. Buy equipment
9. Hire staff
10. Build a website
11. Consider add-on revenue sources
12. Create a marketing plan

If you have your own yoga practice, you’ve likely flowed through studios that felt like home, with their balance of spiritual authenticity and practical comfort, and others where the energy felt as misaligned as a forced backbend. The most magnetic studios create a complete journey from online booking to IRL practice.

Here’s how to build a studio that reflects your ethos while meeting the practical demands of running your own yoga business:

1. Nail down your vision and unique selling proposition

Before you get started, figure out what kind of yoga studio you want to create and what will make it stand out. Will you focus on dynamic flows (Kundalini or Ashtanga classes) or cater to new yoga practitioners with gentle Hatha and restorative sessions? Identify your yoga styles and the vibe of your studio (e.g., spiritual sanctuary, fitness-oriented, community-focused).

Use this to guide your operations decisions, space considerations, marketing and branding, and target audience.

2. Conduct market research

Evaluate your local yoga market, including taking classes at existing studios. How many studios, recreation centers, or gyms offer yoga nearby? (In 2023, there were more than 42,000 yoga and Pilates studios in the US, so expect some competition.) Analyze what others charge, the types of classes they offer and at what times, and how full their classes are. Find a gap you can fill or a demographic you can serve better.

Then, profile your ideal student, considering factors like age, lifestyle, and fitness level. For example, women are about twice as likely as men to practice yoga, though a welcoming studio can attract all genders. Maybe you’ll market to younger professionals with evening power Vinyasa classes, or seniors with daytime gentle yoga. Narrowing this down will help shape your schedule, pricing, and marketing tone.

3. Figure out certification requirements

You don’t need a certification to open and run a yoga studio. That said, if you plan to open a studio but aren’t a licensed instructor yourself, you may want to consider partnering with someone with hands-on experience in the field, or having yoga practitioners and teachers in leadership positions in your company. This can help you make decisions, understand trends, and build legitimacy.

Strictly speaking, you don’t need a certification to teach yoga either. However, most yoga studios require teachers to complete a 200-hour yoga teacher training program that meets Yoga Alliance standards. Having a certification doesn’t just improve teaching; it’s often necessary for insurance and gives students confidence in your abilities.

During training, you and your studio instructors will deepen your practice and learn anatomy, teaching techniques, and yoga philosophy. You’ll also get experience in various yoga styles—Vinyasa and Hatha are common foundations, and many programs introduce specialties like Yin or aerial yoga. If you plan to offer niche classes (like vigorous Ashtanga or heated Bikram sessions), seek additional certifications in those areas after your basic training.

Considering maintaining and requiring CPR and first aid certification to promote safety when leading physical activities.

4. Make a business plan

Drafting a thorough business plan is essential to outline your vision, short-term and long-term goals, market analysis, and financial reality. This living document will guide your decisions, while also speaking the language that potential investors and loan officers need to hear before opening their checkbooks. Before you even scout locations, make sure your plan addresses these elements:

• Services and pricing. Plan out what you’ll offer and how you’ll earn revenue. Aside from drop-in classes, will you sell class packages or monthly memberships? Will you offer private lessons, online yoga classes, or teacher training for additional income? Outline your class schedule, membership options, and pricing structure.

• Revenue forecast. Estimate costs (rent, renovations, equipment, advertising) and forecast your expenses (instructor pay, utilities) versus income from classes and retail sales. Gauge how many students or memberships you need to break even and make a profit. Include a section about covering early costs and sustaining cash flow in the early months. Use these projections to calculate how much space you’ll need and set a rental budget.

5. Incorporate and register your business

How you structure your yoga studio business (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company) has legal, tax, and financial implications. An LLC is a business structure that can be owned by one person or multiple partners (called members). It’s a popular choice because it legally separates the business owners’ business assets and liabilities from their personal affairs. Consult with a legal adviser if you’re unsure of the best structure for your business.

Once you’ve decided on an entity type, it’s time for incorporation paperwork and registration with your state. Then you can obtain an employee identification number (EIN) from the IRS.

While you don’t need any specific licenses to open a yoga studio, you’ll likely need a business license and health and safety licenses, and to ensure you’re following all zoning requirements. Make sure that the building is permitted for fitness or studio use—check zoning laws, and once you’ve secured the space, get any required occupancy permits from the city.

Licensing and zoning rules vary by state and county, and you can find resources to help you get your paperwork lined up. For example, California business owners can turn to CalGold to figure out what permits they need.

6. Find a studio space

Seek out a spot for your studio that is convenient for your target audience. Factor in foot traffic, parking availability, and whether it sits on a public transit route.

Inside the space, consider size and layout. You’ll need at least one dedicated practice room with enough square footage for your class sizes—envision a space where students can comfortably unroll their mats with room to fully extend their limbs in all directions without accidentally bumping against their neighbors during side angles or warrior poses. Check that the room has good ventilation (especially for hot yoga classes like Bikram), the right kind of flooring (non-slippery hardwood or laminate that’s easy to clean), and, ideally, natural light. Aim to allocate space for a small reception or lobby area, storage for mats and props, and bathrooms and changing rooms.

Before signing a lease, factor in any renovations you’ll need to do (adding mirrors, sound system installation, painting) and negotiate a lease that gives your new studio time to grow (three to five years may be a good term for a fledgling business).

7. Get insurance

Protect your business and students by getting the right insurance before you open your studio doors. You’ll likely need a combination of insurance policies to cover different business risks. Consider these insurance options for a fitness business:

• General liability insurance. General liability coverage applies to injuries occurring on your premises. If a student slips or someone gets hurt using your equipment, this coverage applies to legal and/or medical costs.

• Professional liability insurance (yoga instructor liability). Also called errors and omissions insurance, professional liability protects your business from claims related to instruction. If a student blames an injury on your teaching or guidance, professional liability insurance protects you and your teachers.

• Property insurance. This protects your studio space and its contents. It covers losses due to fire, robbery, or vandalism—important for your mats, props, furniture, and any upgrades you’ve made to the rented space.

• Workers’ compensation insurance. When you bring on staff or instructors as employees (not independent contractors), most states require workers’ comp. This covers employee injuries on the job.

Shop around for insurers that specialize in fitness businesses—companies that frequently bundle general and professional liability for yoga studios into affordable packages. Get detailed quotes about what’s included and the coverage limits. Having insurance isn’t just for worst-case scenarios—many landlords will ask for proof of insurance, and it gives you peace of mind as a yoga studio owner.

8. Buy equipment

Outfit your studio with the right equipment and supplies to run classes smoothly. Start by making a list of what you (and your students) will need, including these items:

• Yoga mats and props. Even though many students bring their own mats, keep a supply of high-quality yoga mats for class use or rentals. Stock plenty of props, including blocks, bolsters, and blankets, to accommodate students of all levels and flexibility.

• Studio furniture. Set up a check-in desk or reception area where students can sign in and pay. Have storage cubbies, lockers, or racks for shoes, bags, and personal items. A small seating area or bench is a nice touch as an area for students to wait before class or relax afterward.

• Sound system. Music will help set the tone for your classes—and for your studio as a whole. Whether you plan to play ambient wind chimes or deep house, invest in a good sound system. Make sure it’s easy to control the volume and playlists from the teacher’s spot—perhaps opting for a Bluetooth setup or a stereo with a remote.

• Lighting and decor. The lighting and décor of your studio set the mood. Consider dimmable lights, salt lamps, and mirrors if it’s right for your style of yoga. Wall décor, like minimalist paintings or a mural, can also create an inviting atmosphere.

• Cleaning supplies and accessories. Keep yoga mat cleaners, disinfectant wipes, and hand sanitizer available. You’ll also need cleaning equipment to maintain the studio daily. If you plan to offer water or tea, have a water cooler or tea station, disposable cups or mugs, and a recycling bin.

9. Hire staff

Unless you’re planning to teach every single class yourself, you’ll need additional instructors and/or staff to help run the studio. Making the right hires ensures your students have a quality experience even when you’re not the one teaching.

Yoga instructors

Look for teachers who are certified (at least 200-hour registered yoga teacher training or equivalent) and have experience in the styles your studio will offer. If you plan a mix of classes, hire instructors with different specialties. Audition potential teachers by having them lead a demo class for you. Evaluate their technical skill, teaching demeanor, communication style, and ability to connect with students.

When hiring, also think about scheduling and coverage. Have a roster of a few trusted instructors you can call if someone is sick or on vacation, so you don’t need to cancel classes. Clear communication and scheduling tools (like a studio management software) can help coordinate your team.

Support staff

For a small studio, you and your instructors might be able to handle administration. But as you grow, consider hiring part-time help for front desk duties. A studio receptionist or manager can greet students, handle sign-ins and payments, answer inquiries, and keep the studio tidy while you focus on teaching or growing the business.

10. Build a website

A professional website is a must for a successful yoga studio. Many students will discover you online, so your site should make a great first impression and provide all the information about your studio. Your website acts as your 24/7 front desk, marketing tool, and sales platform rolled into one, making it worth the investment to get it right.

Your own yoga studio website should include:

• Class schedule. An easy-to-navigate calendar showing all upcoming classes.

• Class descriptions. Clear explanations of each style (e.g., “Beginners’ Hatha: ideal for new students” or “Hot Bikram: 90-minute heated class for detox and strength”).

• Pricing options. Transparent information about drop-in rates, class packages, and memberships.

• About page. Your story, teaching philosophy, and what makes your studio unique.

• Instructor bios. Information about your teaching team and their specialties.

• High-quality photos. Images that show off your studio’s atmosphere and energy.

• Online booking system. This allows students to reserve and pay for classes without needing to call.

• Mobile-friendly design. Ensure everything works simply on smartphones.

• Blog/resources. Yoga tips and content that improve your SEO for local searches.

• Contact information. Make your address, phone number, and email easy to find.

• Google map. Embedded directions to help new students locate you.

• FAQ page. Answer common questions, such as where to park, recommended arrival times, what to bring, and what your cancellation policy is.

When building your website, consider an all-in-one platform like Shopify that can handle your class bookings with appointment booking software, in-person transactions through their POS system, and even product sales, keeping all your business data in one place.

11. Consider add-on revenue sources

Consider selling merchandise (branded mats, water bottles, apparel) as part of your equipment order—these can become an extra revenue stream and marketing tool for your studio. A Shopify store gives your students the option to browse your gear online while its point-of-sale (POS) system handles in-studio purchases, letting you track inventory and sales whether someone makes a purchase online or in person.

You can also sell digital products on your website that allow you to generate passive income with your expertise. Options include downloadable technique guides, pre-recorded video classes, maybe even your studio’s custom playlist.

12. Create a marketing plan

A marketing plan will help you grow your student base and build a yoga community around your studio. Here are key strategies to include:

Craft your brand identity

Cohesive branding helps your studio stand out. Use your vision and USP to build your brand identity. Design a mind-sticking logo and choose a color palette and typography that reflects your studio’s vibe (earthy and calming, vibrant and energetic, etc.). Use this branding across your website, social profiles, and any print materials.

Opt in to social media

Meet your students where they are—Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube are popular channels for yoga content. Share class schedules, yoga tips, student testimonials, and behind-the-scenes peeks. Post consistently and spark conversations with followers. You can also join forces with local influencers or encourage your students to tag your studio. Consider posting short yoga tutorials or livestreaming a mini class to attract people who might convert to studio students.

Offer promos and referrals

One of the best ways to get new students is through word-of-mouth marketing. To formalize this, offer a new student special (e.g., first class free, or an intro month at a discounted rate). This lowers the barrier for newcomers to try your studio. Additionally, create a referral program—existing members could get a free class or merchandise for each friend who signs up.

Coordinate community gatherings

Build your studio’s reputation by organizing events beyond regular classes. This could be a free yoga class in the park on weekends, workshops on specific topics (like an inversion workshop), or charity yoga events where proceeds go to a cause. Partner with juice bars, wellness shops, and spas for cross-promotion; for example, you host a yoga class at a local café’s courtyard and they offer your members a discount on smoothies.

Use email

Collect emails through your website or in-studio and send a weekly or monthly newsletter. Share the upcoming class schedule, highlight any new classes or instructors, and include a helpful yoga tip or a student spotlight.

Track your marketing efforts to see which ones bring in students. Use Google Analytics on your website and ask new students how they heard about you. Over time, you’ll see what strategies work best (e.g., maybe your Facebook ads are yielding more sign-ups than printed flyers). A combination of online marketing, word of mouth, and community presence tends to be the formula for success.