One of the best parts about Power Life is that we have new students coming into the doors at all times of the year — it’s not only limited to the January rush! Whether you’re a Power Life veteran or a complete newbie, it is important to keep studio etiquette in mind (especially at a busy studio)!

There are a few guidelines we think come in handy when you’re part of an exercise community like Power Life’s, and there’s no time like the present for a little self-reflection. Below you’ll find a few examples of how to be respectful of others to ensure everyone has the best possible experience:

• Be on time: I love to give myself a good 5 minutes before class starts to find my spot, grab necessary equipment, and say “Hi!” to a new friend. This also helps ensure that I get the full experience of class and don’t interrupt anyone around me. All this said, we fully understand that life happens and you may be running a little late on occasion. If you think you’re going to be coming in hot, please give the studio a call to give us a heads up!
  
• Unplug: Do you find yourself taking your phone into class “just in case” you need it? Give yourself time to be present and leave your phone in the locker room/lobby to truly take a mental break from the hustle and bustle of the day. I promise you will leave feeling more refreshed and ready to tackle all the things life has in store for you outside the studio.
  
• Respect the equipment: No one needs 4 sets of weights for one class — truly! Try narrowing it down to just one or two sets, and really push yourself to get the best workout you can with what you grabbed. This not only leaves enough equipment options and space for your classmates, but it’s also a great way to check in with yourself to really figure out what level or effort or ease serves you most on your mat.
  
• Know when to socialize: Before class? Go for it — meet someone new! After a tricky set of high knees or push-ups? Heck yes — encourage your neighbors! During savasana? Mmmm better not. Often times, people brand-new to Power Life don’t know we like to observe a few moments of stillness and quiet at the end of each class. It’s understandable considering not many of us get to do that outside the safe four corners of our mats! We kindly ask that you help us observe this moment of calm. Give yourself and your fellow classmates time to rest. You deserve it.
• Clean up after yourself: You know the saying, “Leave things nicer than how you found them”? This definitely applies at the studio! This could look like nicely stacking your weights or blocks, cleaning up something you spilled on the floor, closing the lockers after you’ve used them, or simply putting trash in the trash can. We do our best to keep our studios clean and fresh, and with your help we can make sure they really shine!
• Stay until the end of class: Do you find yourself regularly leaving class early? Maybe you feel a bit fidgety during savasana? Although we understand everyone’s lives, minds, and schedules are different, leaving early disrupts everyone else in the room. Those last couple minutes of class are important, so we encourage you to stay through to the end.
• Share the love: Your instructors truly appreciate you setting aside time for yourself to come to class! We encourage you to offer them a high five or a kind word about what you enjoyed most about class. Even a simple “Thank you!” can go a long way. After all, we instructors teach because we want to positively impact people’s lives. It’s great to know when we’ve done that.

We’re honored to support you on your fitness journey, and want to make sure everyone enjoys their time at Power Life. Remember, everyone has to start somewhere. Be sure to give new students a bit of time and grace to learn and absorb these tips and tricks. Did I miss any that you think are important? Drop them in the comments below!