Onboard 3: SOMA Studio Etiquette

Grace in Movement, Courtesy in Community

There’s something magical about walking into SOMA—the calm light, the clean space, the subtle hum of springs and breath. But behind the beauty is something even more important: a shared sense of respect and rhythm that keeps everything flowing—on the Reformer and in the room.

To help maintain the ease and elegance of your experience, here are a few reminders about studio etiquette. Nothing fussy—just a thoughtful approach to moving well and being well with others.

Arrive a Few Minutes Early

We get it—life happens. But when possible, aim to arrive with enough time to get yourself fully settled before class begins. There’s a ritual to entering the space that helps your nervous system shift into focus. Treat your arrival and Reformer setup as part of your practice:

• Drive calmly (no need to rev your engine—or your stress levels) and park safely

• Remove your shoes

• Hang your coat

• Use the restroom and/or refill your water at our reverse osmosis water filter

• Tuck your phone and belongings into a locker

• Take a breath and land in your body

Once you're in the studio, choose your Reformer and check your:

• Spring settings

• Stopper placement

• Strap length

• Headrest position

• Props you might need for comfort

Note: Adjusting straps after class begins can disrupt your flow and your classmates'. If you’re unsure how to adjust something, ask your instructor before class starts—we’re happy to help.

No Cell Phones, No Siri, No Notifications

Pilates is about presence. To protect that for everyone, please silence your smart watches and leave phones outside the studio space.

Even silent phones can create mental noise. And Siri, while helpful elsewhere, doesn’t offer particularly useful cues for breath or neutral pelvis. We've even had a few jolting alerts interrupt clients mid-plank or inversion—jarring for the whole room.

Best practice? Leave your phone in your locker. This is your time. Protect it.

Book What You Intend to Attend

With only six clients per class, every spot matters—both for our instructors and for your fellow students. Smaller class sizes mean more personal attention, but also tighter availability.

Please only book classes you intend to attend, and cancel as soon as you know you have a conflict. Our 24-hour cancellation policy exists to protect the integrity of the schedule—and to give others the opportunity to jump in.

SOMA runs at 80% capacity by design, leaving a 20% buffer so that clients can book last minute if their day opens up. It’s our way of giving you flexibility and breathing room.

In return, we ask for your thoughtfulness: cancel 24+ hours in advance whenever possible. It’s a give and take.

Late Cancellations: When Life Happens

We understand—life is unpredictable. If you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice, your class credit will be forfeited, unless:

• We’re able to replace your spot with another paying student

• You’ve had fewer than 10% of your total bookings as late cancels or no-shows

• It’s a true emergency (we trust you to know what that means)

No-shows always result in the loss of the class credit unless you've had a serious, unforeseen emergency and have reached out to let us know.

Have a shifting schedule? Book classes only when you’re confident you can attend, or closer to class time when your day is clearer. Our 80% model makes that possible.

A Few More Gentle Reminders

• Grippy socks or barefoot only—regular socks can slip on equipment, and you may be asked to remove them for safety

• Avoid strong scents or body odors—your classmates are breathing deeply (and so are you)

• Wipe down your equipment after class—wipes are provided; the studio is also deep-cleaned weekly and UV sterilized regularly

• Share any injuries or health updates before class—especially if you’re unsure how to modify

• Listen to your body—rest when needed; no pressure to “push through”

Pilates at SOMA Is Personal—and Communal

One of the most beautiful things about Pilates is how personal it is—yet you're never practicing alone. Our intimate setting allows you to acknowledged in each class. Your breath, your focus, your energy… all become part of the rhythm of the room.

At SOMA, we strive to create a space where everyone feels welcome, supported, and seen. That starts with shared presence, mutual respect, and an understanding that we’re all here to move and feel our best.

Thank you for helping keep SOMA the special space that it is.