How did you get started at Dfly?
I would take Dfly classes while visiting family when I lived out of state, and then joined the Middleton studio when I moved back to Madison in February 2023.
What was your yoga or barre experience before Dfly?
My first real taste of yoga took place while doing the P90X fitness videos about 15 years ago. In retrospect, the yoga in that series was really basic but strangely compelling. Seeking the real thing, I joined a Corepower studio in St. Paul, MN, where I instantly found a home and a calling. I spent a decade practicing at Corepower studios in the Twin Cities, where I also received my teaching certification, and then another 5 years practicing at CPY studios in Southern California before moving to Madison.
What do you enjoy most from attending Dfly classes?
I really enjoy the exhausted yet satisfied feeling I get from taking an extra hot, challenging and well-sequenced class that pushes me past my comfort zone to the edge of the abyss. More of these please. I also like the people – teachers and students, and the sense of community one gets from being a regular.
Have you experienced any changes in your total well-being since taking classes?
When I moved to Madison I was in the early stages of recovering from surgery to repair a severely broken arm. Dfly has been extremely helpful – both mentally and physically – in my ongoing rehabilitation process. Beyond that, my yoga practice has long been a key way I stay centered, focused and fit, especially as I get older.
How often do you attend classes? Favorite class?
4-5 days a week. Favorite classes are Power Flows, and Fire Slow Flow 75.
I really like the variety of styles and classes at Dragonfly, and the different locations. We’re lucky to have nice, well-maintained studios, good teachers and a dedicated group of yogis.
Instructor Marc Milone: “Joel has been a regular to my Sunday Powerflow for over a year now. Known for practicing in the same spot each week, it makes my day to see Joel present and excited to be on his mat when I first walk into the room. Beyond his consistency, Joel has demonstrated clear growth in his practice despite challenges from a long-lasting shoulder injury. He rarely misses a class, and if he does, he is sure to let me know. His dedication is always recognized and appreciated!”
