★ 3

Pros: Instructors are awesome and top tier. They have a variety of different classes to attend: Pole, Lyra, Hammock, etc. They have classes you can take at the Cleveland location as well for stretching, active stretching, contortion, and even a Twerk class (which I'm really eager to try). Also, parking at Akron is MUCH easier and free!

Cons: They are very strict on how they do business from a financial standpoint. This is my biggest criticism, otherwise I'd have nothing but positive things to say. To name a few, but not all examples, they don't offer monthly memberships, only 6 months and 1 year. They charge late cancelation fees if you cancel within 24 hours, and they will usually only waive the fee if it's an emergency and they charge fees for no shows.

On one occasion, I went to urgent care after work because I noticed the beginning signs of a skin infection the same day of a class I had later that evening. I called right when they opened to explain my situation and ask if it was possible to waive the late fees. They waived the cancelation fee for the Open Pole session, however, they still charged me $15 for cancelling the class. After telling me I'd be charged anyways because my situation wasn't an emergency, I asked if I could still attend anyways to avoid getting charged since I probably would have made it in time. The manager rightfully said that they can't allow me to attend because it's a potential risk to others (she made the right call). I had been charged late fees before when I didn't fully understand the policy; 100% on me, I paid the charges, and didn't say anything. But to charge me anyways for a medical condition that I called as soon as I could for and was willing to provide documentation for was not a decision I appreciated at all.

My recommendation to avoid situations like this, would be to sign up maybe a few hours before a class to ensure you can attend. However, if you do this, you will have to keep an eye on the available spots, so you don't get waitlisted. This is more common at the Cleveland location, but it does happen from time to time at the Akron location.

Edit in response to the owner: I know it's been a while since I posted this, but I wanted to add additional feedback. When I called about having the fees wavied I explained to the receptionist that I was willing to provide a doctor's note. When the receptionist called me back, she said it was the owner's call to not waive the class fee. I also just remember feeling pressure at my time at EDP. Like to sign up I was taken to the corner of the room with a contract, I was only told about the 6 month and 12 month members, you couldn't cancel in the middle of a membership, and to cancel at the end of the membership, I had to talk to someone and I had to push a bit to have a video call instead of in person because of conflicting schedules.

I think what would alleviate a lot of that pressure would be if you are able to state all policies on your website (if you haven't done so already). I can understand wanting to take people through a contract to be thorough, but people can be forgetful. I don't recall if I was given a copy of the contract I signed, but providing a copy for client's records upfront would also be great. Lastly, being more flexible about contract cancelations and not requiring a meeting would help as well.

I hope my review isn't coming across as negative. I know it's not easy being a business owner and I can tell you have a lot of passion for what you do. I also can't even imagine the things people say; I'm sure you've heard it all. However, I do think if some adjustments were made in regards to being more lenient it would do a lot to make clients feel more welcomed, valued, and comfortable. I know that can be extra work on your end, but there are some clients out there who are worth being lenient towards and will show that appreciatation in return; a little can go a long way. You're already doing so many things right, I just feel some additional understanding would assist in bringing in more business/retaining newcomers.

Source: Google

★ 5

So nice, fun supportive environment!

Source: Google

★ 1

UPDATE APRIL 29, 2025.
THEY NEED TO GO OVER THEIR POLICIES WITH ALL NEW CUSTOMERS. MY REVIEW HERE WAS POSTED OVER 2 YEARS AGO AND A NEWER CUSTOMER JUST 7 MONTHS AGO HAD AN ISSUE WITH THEM BEING CLEAR ON TIME SLOTS AS WELL. HAD 2STARS HERE AND NOW THEY GET 1 BECAUSE NO ONE DESERVES THIS TYPE OF TREATMENT FOR JUST TRYING TO VISIT A PLACE FOR THE FIRST TIME. THE BUSINESS DOES NOT SEEM TO CARE BECAUSE THERE WAS NO APOLOGY NOT EVEN ON HERE ALTHOUGH I DO HAVE THE INTERACTION RECORDED.

THEY WERE EXTREMELY NICE OVER THE PHONE AT FIRST WHEN COMMUNICATING OVER A YEAR PRIOR BEFORE MY FIRST VISIT.
First impression when walking in after getting assisance with location instructions:
They seemed rude and hostile when it was only my first time arriving🙄😢😞. When doing business with new patrons, these people should learn to communicate effectively instead of being rude &hostile. When I told the woman no one communicated to me to be there prior to a locked door at 6:05 she vigorously moved her hands and yelled at me to just hurry and sign without reading the agreement I was signing.
I called at 6:01 after driving around since 5:58 looking for the place since it was so dark back there. I walked in the door by 6:02-6:03p.m, telling her my car lights didn't go off parked right by the door then I was right back in by 6:03-6:04p.m. I feel that Instead of embarrassing me and making me feel like an outcast they could have told me to come in at a different time over the phone. On the phone I told them I was there for the 6:00 session but couldn't find their door. When I first walked in the 2 women were making the most unwelcomed faces as if they didn't want me there in the first place. The woman told me to leave unless I sign the contract in 2 secs. After signing her voice raised and she immediately started patronizing me rudely and in a condescending manner and telling me I'm not following their policies because of the time I arrived. I didn't get this information over the phone. I got that they lock the doors at 6:05 and to be there before that. She admitted not talking to me over the phone. I've been in contact with this business for over a year before attending so I was pretty excited when finally coming here and after driving 45 minutes.
Her talking to me this way wasted time because I was embarrassed so when being yelled at I felt I should speak my peace by explaining to them that the information was never relayed to me.
After her saying things slowly with her hands
"Do you understand?" as if I was slow and only spoke sign language, in a condescending manner I finally gave in. I didn't understand why the hostility with it being my first time.

Source: Google

★ 5

Had a party with Shannon tonight. It was AWESOME!!! We are middle aged ladies and she made us feel comfortable. Kept making sure the moves weren't painful and gave other moves if it was. She was so energetic, fun and sweet. Individually helped us and made everything easy to understand. I encourage everyone to book a party with her!!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Professional staff, flexible hours, passionate about their sport!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Love the EDP Akron community!!

Source: Google

★ 1

Horrible owners! They won’t stop contacting me about a $10 fee because they claim I canceled a class late when I was injured and couldn’t attend. I gave 24 hour notice. They said they will continue to charge me fees until I pay for the missed class. It’s absolutely insane. STAY AWAY!
EDITED TO ADD: They try to run my card constantly, even though I’ve told them not to, each time charging a fee of $25. This is a blatant grab for more money. They are the ones harassing me. My “constant emails” are REPLIES to them. I never no-showed a class without calling or canceling. They lie. The review is not fraudulent, it is based on my experience with this very unreasonable company. I didn’t “threaten legal action,” I’m not looking to sue them, I’m seeking to protect myself FROM THEM. I just want them to leave me alone.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Everyone here is amazing 🤩 This was my first time trying a class and I felt welcome. Class was so fun. I can't wait for next class!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great classes and an enjoyable environment

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★ 1

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★ 5

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★ 5

Such great vibes!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

This place has the MOST prestige staff, with a clean environment, and their curriculum for poling are by far the best and most fun workout’s I’ve ever experienced!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This studio is truly a hidden gem! The pole classes are one of a kind!! Every experience has left me with new skills and more strength. The support and attention from the instructors is unmatched. I am grateful to have found such an awesome space!

Source: Google

★ 5

So happy to find this studio, as a guy I didn't think I would fit In, but the staff is awesome and very encouraging. Thank you!

Source: Google

★ 1

1/5 stars- for the organization itself (not Sam or Shannon as they were amazing)

Reasoning:
I tried the free trial period, and unfortunately the day before my last class i tested positive for Covid at 12:30 pm. I canceled the9:45 am class the next morning and texted to let them know. However this morning, they charged my card due to their 24 hour cancellation policy. I think this is insane- did you want me to come with Covid so I wouldn’t be charged? This made me not want to continue my classes here.

This is amplified because the previous week THEY CANCELLED A CLASS WITH ONLY A 3 HOUR NOTICE.

Additionally, my first class experience was not the best- I arrived for my first class 30 min early as asked. But when. I got there, I found the door still locked . When the employee showed up 10 min later, I had to help them unlock the door because they didn’t know how. I then helped her find the lights, change their water fountain bottle, and helped move a ladder. She didn’t know how to sign me in or assist me with any of the onboarding. No one told me before the class to not come a half hour early and I work almost a hour away so I could have used that extra time to get food, or change, or anything. This was a my FIRST impression. And I was happy to help her out and brush it off because I don’t mind being considerate. But to have the consideration not given back to me less than a week and a half later- absolutely not!

Source: Google

★ 5

"The instructors are very skilled and professional, making the experience enjoyable and informative. The studio itself is beautiful, with a welcoming atmosphere, and I really appreciated how clean and well-maintained everything is."

Source: Google

★ 1

Review 1 of 2
My free 2 week class ended up costing me $40. However, that is not the reason for the 1 star review. I also want to state that I have practiced Aerial yoga for over 3 years. I highly recommend Release Yoga Studio in Green, OH just 25 minutes away from this location. They offer aerial yoga, lyra, traditional yoga, and have a reasonable cancellation policy.

I always try to support local businesses over chains. With that, I am aware that it normally comes with higher prices and I fully support businesses charging what is needed. I am not supportive of unreasonable charges and 24 cancellation policies for a workout class.

The Studio itself is unsanitary. Dirty floors, dirty equipment, and smells of smoke.
The instructor seemed to have personal issues that showed up in both classes.
The owners are hypocritical with their policies.

Disgusting Floors - My feet ended up turning black both times I visited the studio. Photos are attached to reference.

Unsanitary Hammocks - Both aerial stretching classes I attended started with the instructor stating “The hammocks might smell, but I promise they are clean”
The hammocks did in fact smell.
At the end of each class, I watched the instructor tie the hammocks back up without being sprayed down with any disinfectant or cleaning spray. That is disgusting as I most definitely sweat in each class. Especially in “chair pose” where the hammock is deep in your armpits for an extended period of time.

Smell of smoke - There is also a strong presence of cigarette smoke/weed/vape pen. The studio is next to a bar with an outside patio. Not sure what the problem is, but the presence of any type of smoke when I am trying to work out is one of the worst experiences I can think of. I took both classes with a friend, and at the end of the 2nd class, the smell of cigarettes was so strong she was nauseous by the time we walked out.

The Instructor – Again, I have 3+ years of aerial yoga experience. I took this class knowing it was intended to be a stretching class and will be much more lax than I am used to. However, I did not anticipate sitting around being bored for roughly ¼ of each class while the instructor takes an absorbent amount of time to “demonstrate and over-explain” a pose. If I pay money for any type of exercise class, I do not want to be sitting around doing nothing for that long. The instructor also seemed to have a bit of an attitude problem in both classes I took with her.

In the first class (4 people), she pointed out that my legs were not straight during as pose and I was not getting the proper stretch. 100% please correct me if my form is off. As soon as she came over and fixed my form I felt the stretch much more intensely. The issue I have is the comment she made immediately after stating “Proper form is the most important aspect of yoga. Make sure we are focusing on that and not trying to show off.” ….Excuse me? For one, I am not sure why she felt that I was not trying to show off, for two, I am not sure how she felt that comment was even remotely appropriate.
I have about 4 more specific instances of the instructor being passive-aggressive in the first class, but this review is already very long so I am moving on the my 2nd class with her. Everyone has off days, so I wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt.

Source: Google

★ 5

All Ecole de Pole instructors are internationally certified, and the entire company has a strong sense of community. The owners are very involved in operations, and have the highest regards for the safety and long term well-being of everyone. The atmosphere is always very supportive, no matter where your skill level and abilities.

As many have mentioned, the administration is fairly strict about cancellations, but at the Akron location you can usually sign up for a class last minute, whereas the Cleveland studio classes are more likely to fill up.

Source: Google

★ 5

So happy I found this place and decided to give it a try! I have been addicted ever since I started. I had NO pole experience whatsoever. Everyone was welcoming and I felt very comfortable as a brand new beginner. They also offer several other classes and workshops besides pole. My strength and flexibility have improved drastically over 6 months. I hate working out but the pole classes are so much fun! Don't hesitate to at least come try it out!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Came here for my bachelorette party this weekend and it was perfect! Becky was so fun! She took us through a choreographed routine and made sure we could take lots of pics and videos and even did a demo at the end! 10000/10 experience, so fun!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Super fun atmosphere! Classes are fun & engaging, instructors are so welcoming and helpful. You will leave your class feeling stronger and more confident than before!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing classes and staff. Appreciate the attention to safety and technique. They offer a high class experience

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

Not willing to be understanding to students at all.

1. I was mostly interested in the open pole time slots (time to freestyle, no instructor) and was initially introduced to the 2 week unlimited intro pass to be able to go to as many open pole sessions as possible. Then less than a week into the pass I was told I could not actually attend the open pole time slots because they're not part of the pass, which is what I was most interested in, and I was no longer allowed to attend with the pass.

2. Agreeing with another review I saw on here, their admin practices are unreasonable. I messaged them to cancel a class a minute before the deadline as a family priority came up last minute for the next day and they still charged me the $20 cancellation fee (class attendance fee is $18) even though it was not within the cancelation policy timeframe, because they didn't see the message until later on their end, even though I sent proof of the delivery time of my cancellation request outside of the cancelation deadline. Their response was that they don't encourage students to cancel over text but this as never communicated prior, as I had booked classes over text before.

3. My drive to the studio was 40 minutes each way. On the day of my last straw with this studio, I signed up for 2 classes back to back. There was an accident on the 77 and I got rerouted, adding 10ish minutes to my drive. This made me exactly 5 minutes late to the class, which started at 5:15pm. I walked in the door as the clock turned from 5:19 to 5:20 and I was told to leave because I was seconds over the 5 minute limit and I would be charged a $25 no-show fee because they physically did not let me go into the class even though I was there after driving 50 minutes to join. No understanding at all, even for a few seconds, even though I offered to find proof of the situation on the highway. Their argument was that I wouldn't be able to warm up properly if I'm over 5 minutes late, but it was literally seconds past which is unreasonable to say makes a difference. I had to wait an hour, got charged for them not letting me in, and only stayed for the next class because I didn't want to get charged again.

I didn't even finish out the rest of my two week pass after that. Not worth feeling completely disregarded and taken advantage of for profit as a human.

Source: Google

★ 5

Such a great place if you want to learn the mechanics and technique of pole while having fun and getting stronger!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 2

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★ 5

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★ 5

I had so much fun with my girls. Who know we had this in Akron...

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this studio!! Awesome and knowledgeable instructors

Source: Google

★ 5

When I first walked in I noticed immediately how clean and updated the studio looks from the excellent paint job that was done. The staff was very patient and helpful especially if it’s your first time and you’re unsure of your fitness level. I’ll definitely be booking for next month

Source: Google

★ 5

Absolutely love the class structure. all the instructors are so knowledgeable and friendly.

Source: Google