Yoga and Pilates Classes

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the questions we are often asked about our yoga and Pilates classes.

1. Can I book a class in advance? Apart from workshops and courses, and Baby Massage classes which should be booked in advance, all of our classes are on a drop-in, first come first served basis. You may check in for a class at any time after the start of the previous class in the same studio. 
2. How much time should I allow before class? We suggest you arrive at least 10-15 minutes before class, in order to give you time to check in at reception, change and generally get ready. Occasionally, our classes do sell out, so an early arrival is also more likely to secure you a place. If you arrive after the class has started, we may not be able to let you in.
3. What should I wear? Dress in comfortable clothing in which you are able to stretch and move freely. Classes are barefoot, and shoes are not allowed in the studios. There are racks for shoes outside each studio. Please also avoid wearing strongly scented perfumes or other cosmetics, which may irritate other students.
4. Where should I leave my bags and valuables?  At Notting Hill, lockers are provided in the changing rooms. There are shelves in the ground floor studio and limited space in the loft studio for small bags. At Islington, lockers are also available in the changing rooms for £1 (returnable), and there is shelving in both studios. We strongly recommend taking your valuables into the studio. The Life Centre is not responsible for any loss or damage to items during your class, whether or not in lockers. 
5. Do you provide equipment? Yes! Mats, blocks, bricks, straps, blankets, bolsters and chairs are provided free of charge in all studios. Many people prefer to practise on their own mat, so we do have mats available to purchase at reception.
6. How do I know which style and level of class to choose? We offer classes in many different yoga styles and for students of all levels of experience. If you are unsure about which class and level is suitable for you, our receptionists are happy to advise.
7. Should I eat before class?  Like all exercise, yoga and Pilates are best practised on an empty stomach. We recommend that you do not eat for at least 2 hours prior to class, though juice or fruit are OK if you need a quick energy boost. We suggest that you drink plenty of water prior to class, but avoid drinking during class.
8. What if I have an injury or medical condition? Please inform the teacher of any injuries or medical conditions (including pregnancy or suspected pregnancy) before the class starts. This is really important as it helps the teacher know how to assist you, give you modifications and keep you safe. We, and our teachers, reserve the right to ask you not to participate in a class if we feel that it would be inappropriate because of an injury or medical condition. If you are uncertain about whether or not yoga is suitable for you, please contact us.
9. Are mobile phones allowed in the centre?  Both yoga and Pilates place great emphasis on concentration and inner stillness, and classes and therapies take place in The Life Centre all day. Mobile phones must be switched off or completely silenced at all times (including in changing rooms and reception areas). This includes turning off any vibration mode.
10. Do you offer private yoga and Pilates tuition?  Because of space constraints, we are unable to offer one-to-one tuition at The Life Centre. However, reception can put you in touch directly with one of our regular teachers if you would like to discuss private tuition.
11. Under 18 years old, can I come to class? Our adult classes are only suitable for over 16 year olds. If you are between 16-18 years of age and would like to come to any classes/workshops, you need to be accompanied by someone over 18.

Please also remember that yoga and Pilates are non-competitive disciplines to be practised with care and respect. And that you will really start to feel the difference with regular practice.