Pilates classes generally hum along without much trouble. It's not hard to figure out what the etiquette at a Pilates studio is. And when in doubt, it's always acceptable to ask. Still, there are a few things you should know, and a few reminders some of us, ah, need.

Do Arrive On Time It is important to be at class on time. Arriving late interrupts the flow of a class, and it means that your body won't get the full benefit of the sequence the teacher is building. Being on time is a sign of respect for the instructor and other students.

Don't Be a "No Show" Please call if you are going to miss your class. Even if something comes up at the last minute or you forgot class and remembered too late to go, call. If you are signed up for a class, that spot is being held for you until the very last minute. If the studio knows you aren't coming, they might be able to fill your place, and they won't worry about you.

Don't Intrude On the Class Before Yours If a class is going on, be respectful. That means not holding prolonged conversations within hearing of the students. It also means that you might have to hold off on your warm up until the class ends. Studios are set up differently. If you can find a quiet corner to do your own thing in, that is usually fine. It is usually not good to help yourself to an empty reformer and start doing what you want when a class is in progress. Depend on your common sense.

Do Let Your Instructor Know About Injuries or Changes in Your Body Often, instructors will check in with students before a class, and ask how they are feeling and if there is anything special going on. But if something really new is going on for you, don't wait to be asked. Politely approach the instructor before class and let them know what's up.

Don't Do Exercises that Hurt Your Body You are responsible for your body. If an instructor asks you to do something that really doesn't feel right for you (which is different than "requires exertion"), it is alright not to do it. Ask the instructor for a modification. If you are in a group class and have minor injuries you are responsible to know your own modifications. Private sessions can be scheduled to learn specific modification for your body.

Do Follow the Pacing and Choreography of the Teacher Instructors choreograph their classes by both pacing and sequence of exercises in order to reach a certain goal. Following the teacher’s choreography ensures proper warm-up and injury prevention. Modifications are allowed due to injury or ability but it is disrespectful to the teacher as well as disruptive to other students to “do your own thing” in class.

Don't Use Class Time as Chat Time Before and after class are great times to chat with friends and share insights about Pilates (as long as you aren't disturbing others). During class, it is a good idea to review whether or not what you want to say is timely and relevant. If you tend to blurt out whatever pops in your head, try to take a look at why. Sometimes talking is a way of escaping the moment.

Do Ask Appropriate Questions Some questions can wait until after class, but sometimes a certain exercise -- in that moment -- triggers a question that has been lingering. You might be in a class that has a workout flow going in which case it might be best to hang on to it until after. But do make sure you get your questions answered.

Do Find Out How You Should Leave the Pilates Equipment This is a basic put away your toys note. If you move a piece of equipment or take a something small like a ring or band from its place, put it back. Beyond that, most studios will want students to wipe the equipment off when they are finished. The studio provides towels and spray for that. Reformers should be left in the neutral position. Neutral position at Grace Anatomy is foot bar down, gear bar and stopper in the 1:1 position and straps hung up on the shoulder rests.