Setting the Right Price for Your Yoga Classes and Workshops: Finding Balance Between Accessibility and Value

Introduction

Setting prices… I remember how stressful that felt when I first started teaching yoga. Should I ask for more? Less? Would people think I was too expensive, or would I undervalue my work?

Like many yoga teachers, I wanted my classes to stay accessible. At the same time, I needed to pay the bills and create a sustainable career. Over the years, I’ve realized there’s no such thing as a “perfect price.” But there is a way to find a fair balance—a price that respects both your students and your work.

In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned, including practical tools to help you feel confident about your pricing.

Why is it so hard to set your prices?

An emotional challenge

Teaching yoga isn’t like selling a product. You’re offering a space for transformation. Putting a dollar amount on that can feel uncomfortable. Many teachers I know have said: “Yoga is a spiritual practice, not a business.” Yet if we want to keep teaching long-term, we need a model that supports us financially.

Constant comparison

When I began, I constantly checked what other teachers were charging: $15 here, $25 there, some even offered donation-based classes. I felt lost and ended up copying others instead of asking what really worked for me.

The wellness paradox

We want to help, to make yoga accessible. But by undercharging, we can end up stressed, burned out, and financially insecure. It’s ironic: as yoga teachers, we guide students toward peace of mind while struggling to find our own balance.

Factors to consider

Fixed and variable costs

It’s not just the hour of teaching. Behind every class, there are:

• Studio rental
• Liability insurance
• Music and props (mats, blocks, bolsters)
• Marketing (website, flyers, Instagram ads)
• Travel time and costs
• Class preparation

👉 Example: Studio rent $40/hour. With 5 students at $15 each, you lose money. With 12 students at $25 each, your class becomes profitable.

Class format

• Drop-in group class: affordable and accessible.
• Private session: higher price point, personalized support.
• Workshops: 2–3 hours, specialized focus, premium pricing.
• Retreats: immersive, often high-end experiences.

Experience and specialization

A new teacher may charge differently than someone with 10+ years of teaching or specialized certifications (prenatal yoga, yoga therapy, trauma-informed yoga).

Local market

Urban centers (New York, Los Angeles, Toronto) usually support higher rates than small towns. Online classes may be priced slightly lower but allow for a broader reach.

Perceived value

It’s not just a class, it’s the experience. Teaching in a beautiful studio with tea and community circles has a different perceived value than a class in a community gym.

Pricing strategies

Drop-in rate

Simple and clear. Example: $20–$30 per class.

Class pass / punch card

Great for loyalty and predictable income. Example: 10-class pass for $220 ($22/class instead of $25).

Memberships

Monthly unlimited or hybrid packages. Example: $120/month unlimited group classes.

Sliding scale pricing

Offering different price points so students choose what they can afford. Example: $15 (community rate), $25 (standard), $35 (supporter).

Premium offers

Specialized workshops or retreats. Example: 3-hour workshop on stress management: $65/person.

How to calculate a fair price

1. Add up fixed and variable costs.
2. Add the income you need to sustain yourself.
3. Divide by the realistic number of students.

👉 Example:

• Studio rental: $40
• Travel + insurance: $10
• Marketing: $10
• Desired net income: $60 = $120 total

With 10 students, that’s $12 each → Suggested price: $25 per student to cover unexpected costs and profit.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Undervaluing yourself because you’re afraid people won’t come.
• Copying other teachers’ prices without context.
• Forgetting the “invisible time”: planning, communication, admin.
• Keeping the same rates for years without adjustment.

Communicating your price with confidence

Shift your mindset

You’re not selling an hour. You’re offering transformation. “One yoga class isn’t just 60 minutes—it’s a reset for body and mind.”

Be transparent

Clearly display your prices on your website, social media, and flyers.

Handling objections

If someone says, “That’s too expensive,” try: “I understand. But think of what this class offers: space to breathe, reduce stress, and reconnect with yourself. That’s a real investment in your well-being.”

Personal experience: When I tried sliding scale pricing

At one point, I experimented with a sliding scale model. My intention was beautiful: to give access to students with fewer financial means.

But in practice, it didn’t work as I hoped. Students who could easily afford the standard rate chose the lower option. I didn’t attract more students, but I did lose income.

What I learned: generosity is important, but so are boundaries. Today, I only offer reduced rates in specific situations (students, unemployed, or special requests we discuss together). This way, I can stay aligned without sacrificing my financial balance.

Conclusion

Setting your rates isn’t just about numbers—it’s about respect. Respect for your time, your energy, and your students.

A fair price is one that lets you teach sustainably, without burnout, while continuing to give your students the quality they deserve.

So take the time to calculate, listen to your intuition, and trust yourself when you set your price.

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