06/12/09

Ok place if this is your only option - but it isn't

by SunsetGal

I went to Elevation for three years, and I finally got so fed up I left. At first I was happy with the prices, the location (I live in the neighborhood) and the quality of the teachers. I was willing to put up with some really un-businesslike practices - classes cancelled at the last minute, the ever-changing front desk staff - but I finally left after yet another beloved teacher disappeared . They just sent out an email that her classes had been taken over and they took down her picture like she never existed. Spooky.

Anyway, there are many other Pilates studios in SF that have happy teachers (many of whom worked at Elevation), cheerful front desk people, and reasonable prices. I now drive over to the Parkside or to Noe Valley/Mission, but it sure is worth it. I would much rather spend my money in a place that seems to want my business.

• Pros: Convenient if you live in the Richmond, affordable
• Cons: Terrible customer service, unhappy teachers who leave

02/20/09

Terrible customer service experience

by rk10

Over the past two years I have been taking private classes and have had six different instructors. The studio hires excellent instructors, all of whom unfortunately leave because they cannot stand working there. In fact, each class served more as a complaining session for each instructor to criticize the studio. Their receptionists and office managers rotate just as often, each creating own rules and policies, and always ensuring that the customer is kept out of the loop regarding these changes. Previous rules are never honored and the only way to receive any sort of information is by pressing for documents regarding the changes. Furthermore, the modifications are aimed at getting more money out of the customer, not at improving the studio or the service.

Lastly, in order to get an idea of what this place is like, you must understand the owner. I took a private class with her, where she spent 60 minutes just talking to me. Call me silly, but when I pay for a private class, I expect exercise as part of the deal. Her stories were not worth my time or the price that I paid.

Customer service at this studio is simply non existent. Instructors have cancelled on me only hours before the class and the studio has never cared enough to find a replacement or has been decent enough to offer an apology. Yet the studio will bill a loyal, long term customer for canceling a session within 48 hours. If a customer woke up feeling sick, where is the justification in expecting a cancellation 48 hours prior?

This studio's ethics are straightforward: you are neither a client nor a customer. You are merely a credit card holder and nothing more. The only thing working or this studio is that there are no others in the area. So if you live nearby and do not want to deal with parking, this is an ideal place for you. However, if you expect customer service and are looking for high standards, avoid this place at all costs.

08/05/08

Clean Cozy Great Exercise Studio

by Emme1212

I've been going to Elevation since it opened and have really liked the way the place has evolved. They have some great, experienced instructors - including owner Peggy (very experienced and fun to work with) and all their Nia instructors, and offer a number of exercise options.

My favorite classes are the ball classes with Peggy (whew - sore abs afterward!), the stretch classes, and Nia. If you haven't tried Nia, you've got to go there for a class. It's an interesting mix of modern dance, martial arts, spirituality, and freedom - plus an amazing aerobics workout.

What's cool too is occassionally they do some interesting, out of the norm, weekend classes. If ever you have a chance to take one from Randi - do it!

Overall I've found the staff to be friendly and helpful and the customer service gets better and better as the studio ages.

My only two negatives - parking in the Outer Richmond has become an ordeal in recent years and meter monitors are quick to ticket. Also, Nia is only one day a week currently at a hard time for my schedule.

When you get done - a burrito at Chino's across the street always hits the spot.

• Pros: Small classes. Great instructors. Variety of class options.
• Cons: Parking.