Here are some of the things you might want to know before your first visit.
GENERAL AND YOUR FIRST VISIT
I'm new to Carma Club — where do I start?
Welcome to Carma! Our 3 classes for £49 Intro Offer is a great place to start. Choose the classes that appeal to you, try something new and get a feel for what we’re all about.
Do I need to be fit to come to Carma?
Absolutely not. Carma is about feel-good movement, not being the fittest person in the room. Come as you are, work at your own level and build from there.
Are your classes suitable for beginners?
Yes. We want everyone to feel welcome, whether you’ve been exercising for years or you’re walking into your very first class. Our instructors will offer options and modifications where appropriate.
What should I wear?
Whatever you feel comfortable moving in! Leggings, shorts, a vest, an oversized T-shirt — we’re not here to judge your wardrobe. For hot classes, we’d recommend lightweight, breathable clothing.
What should I bring with me?
Bring a water bottle and anything you personally like to use for training. For hot classes and recovery sessions, we’d also recommend bringing a towel. If you don’t have one, towels are available to hire for £3.
How early should I arrive for my first class?
We recommend arriving around 10–15 minutes early for your first visit. It’ll give you time to find us, get settled, meet your instructor and ask any questions before class begins.
Do you have changing rooms and showers?
Yes. We have changing facilities and showers available so you can freshen up before heading back out into the world.
Do you have somewhere to leave my belongings?
Yes, there will be a designated area for your belongings while you’re enjoying your class or recovery session. Please avoid bringing valuables where possible.
Where are you?
You’ll find us at Carma Club, The Plaza Unit, Millennium Promenade, Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5SY.
Is there parking nearby?
We’re right in Bristol Harbourside, with public car parks and on-street parking options within walking distance. We’d always recommend checking parking availability before travelling, particularly at busy times.
What age do I need to be to attend Carma?
Please check our current booking terms for minimum age requirements, as these may differ depending on the class or recovery treatment you’re booking.
MOVEMENT & CLASSES
What classes do you offer?
A lovely mixture! Our timetable includes classes such as Hot Yoga, Pilates, Pilates Sculpt, Yoga, Strength, Step, Dance, Pilates and more.
The common theme? Good music, great instructors, plenty of personality and movement that makes you feel good.
How do I know which class is right for me?
Have a read through our class descriptions and choose something that sounds like you. If you’re still unsure, drop us a message and we’ll happily point you in the right direction.
How long are your classes?
Class lengths vary depending on the format, but most Carma classes are around 40–50 minutes. You’ll see the exact duration when you book.
How hot are your Hot Yoga and Hot Pilates classes?
Our hot classes use infrared heating and can reach temperatures of up to approximately 42°C, depending on the class.
I've never done Hot Yoga before — can I still come?
Of course. You don’t need to be an experienced yogi. Listen to your body, take breaks whenever you need them and keep hydrated. Your instructor will guide you through the session.
Do you provide yoga mats and equipment?
Yes, the equipment required for our classes will be available at the studio unless your booking information tells you otherwise.
If you’re joining us for one of our hot classes, you’ll need a grippy yoga towel to place over your mat. You can bring your own or purchase one from us at the studio.
Can I come if I have an injury or medical condition?
This depends on your individual circumstances. If you have an injury, health condition or have been advised to limit exercise, please speak to an appropriate healthcare professional before taking part and let your instructor know before class.
Can I exercise during pregnancy?
Some forms of movement can be suitable during pregnancy, but not every Carma class or recovery treatment will be appropriate. Please seek advice from your midwife or healthcare professional and speak to us before booking so we can help you choose appropriately.
What happens if I'm late?
Please make sure you arrive in plenty of time for your class. Our studio doors will be locked 5 minutes before the class starts, so we recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early to give yourself time to get settled.
Once the doors are locked, unfortunately we won’t be able to let you in — this is for everyone’s safety and to avoid disrupting the class once it’s underway.
RECOVERY
What's included in the Carma Recovery Suite?
Our recovery offering includes sauna, cold tub, contrast therapy, red light mask, PEMF therapy, compression boots, red light therapy masks and massage guns.
It’s all about giving you the tools — and the time — to slow down, recharge and recover.
Do I need to exercise before using the Recovery Suite?
Not at all! Recovery isn’t just for people who’ve worked out. Come after a class, after a long day at work or simply because you fancy some time to yourself.
What is contrast therapy?
Contrast therapy involves alternating between heat and cold, such as moving between our sauna and cold tub. The changes in temperature affect blood flow and many people use contrast therapy to support post-exercise recovery, relax tired muscles and leave themselves feeling refreshed and energised.
What are the benefits of sauna and cold-water therapy?
Heat can encourage blood flow, help muscles feel relaxed and provide a wonderful opportunity to unwind. Cold-water immersion is commonly used after exercise to help with temporary muscle soreness and recovery.
Combine the two and you’ve got the full Carma contrast experience.
How cold is the cold tub?
Our cold tub can go as low as 3°C — so yes, it can get pretty chilly! 🥶
If you’re new to cold-water immersion, don’t worry — there’s absolutely no prize for being the coldest person in Bristol! Start gradually, listen to your body and build up at your own pace.
Do I have to use the cold tub?
Absolutely not. The Recovery Suite is about your recovery, your way. Choose the treatments that work for you.
What is PEMF therapy?
PEMF stands for Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy. Our full-body PEMF mat uses gentle electromagnetic pulses while you lie back and relax.
PEMF has been studied for a variety of applications, including pain, stiffness and physical function, although benefits can vary depending on the individual, device and protocol. At Carma, we offer it as one of the tools you can choose to complement your wider recovery and relaxation routine.
What are compression boots?
Compression boots wrap around your legs and gently inflate and deflate in sections, creating a rhythmic squeezing sensation.
This temporarily increases circulation and can help tired or heavy legs feel refreshed. They’re particularly lovely after running, strength training, a tough class or a long day on your feet.
What is the red light therapy mask?
Our LED red light therapy mask is a skin-focused addition to your recovery time. Red LED light is used within skincare to support natural skin processes, including collagen production.
Pop it on, close your eyes and enjoy a little extra self-care while you relax.
What does the massage gun do?
A massage gun uses rapid pulses known as percussive therapy to target specific muscles. It can help muscles feel less tight and temporarily improve blood flow and range of motion.
How long should I spend in the sauna?
This will depend on your experience and individual circumstances. We’ll provide clear guidance at the studio, and if you’re new to sauna use, we’d always encourage you to start gradually, stay hydrated and come out if you feel unwell or uncomfortable.
What should I bring to the Recovery Suite?
Bring swimwear, a water bottle and a towel. Don’t have a towel with you? No problem — you can hire one from us for £3.
We’ll provide all the recovery equipment, so you can simply turn up, switch off and enjoy some proper Carma time.
Can I use more than one recovery treatment during my visit?
Yes, depending on the session you’ve booked. Part of the Carma experience is being able to combine different recovery tools, such as sauna and cold therapy or relaxing with our red light mask during another suitable treatment.
Are there reasons I shouldn't use certain recovery treatments?
Yes. Sauna, cold-water immersion, PEMF, red light and compression aren’t suitable for everybody. Certain medical conditions, medications, implanted electronic devices and other circumstances may mean a treatment isn’t appropriate for you.
Please read the relevant safety information before booking and seek medical advice if you’re unsure.
Can I use the Recovery Suite if I'm pregnant?
Some of our recovery treatments may not be suitable during pregnancy. Please speak to your midwife or healthcare professional and contact us before booking.
Is the Recovery Suite private or shared?
This will depend on the type of recovery session you’ve booked. Your booking information will make it clear whether your session is private or shared.
BOOKINGS, MEMBERSHIPS & PAYMENTS
How do I book a class?
Simply head to our timetable, choose your class and book your space online or through the Carma Club app.
How does the 3 classes for £49 Intro Offer work?
If you’re new to Carma, you can purchase 3 classes for £49 and use them to experience different classes and find your favourites.
How long do I have to use my Intro Offer?
Your Intro Offer will have a set validity period from your first booking. The exact expiry date will be shown when you purchase your pass.
Do I have to become a member after my Intro Offer?
No. We’d obviously love you to stay, but there’s no pressure. Once you’ve used your three classes, you can decide which membership or class option works best for you.
Can I pay for individual classes?
Yes. Alongside our memberships, we’ll have options for people who prefer more flexibility, including class passes and drop-ins where available.
What memberships and class packs do you offer?
You’ll find all of our current options on our Memberships & Pricing page, so you can choose something that suits how often you’d like to move and recover with us.
Is recovery included in my membership?
This depends on the membership you choose. Any recovery allowances or member discounts will be clearly shown within the membership description.
Can I book Recovery without being a member?
Yes. You don’t have to be a Carma member to come and experience our recovery offering.
How far in advance can I book?
Our booking system will show all sessions currently available to book. Members may have different advance booking windows depending on their membership.
What is your cancellation policy?
We know plans change. Our cancellation window and any applicable late-cancellation charges will be clearly displayed when you book and within our Terms & Conditions.
What happens if I don't turn up?
If you don’t attend and haven’t cancelled within the required window, you may lose the class credit or incur a late-cancellation/no-show charge depending on your membership.
Can I freeze my membership?
Please check the terms of your specific membership for current freeze options and eligibility.
How do I cancel my membership?
Membership cancellation requests should be made in accordance with the notice period set out in your membership Terms & Conditions. Full details will be available within your account.
Do you have waiting lists?
Yes, where available. If your favourite class is full, join the waiting list and we’ll let you know if a space becomes available.
How do I access my Carma account?
You can manage your bookings, membership and account through our online booking system and Carma Club app.
A LITTLE MORE ABOUT CARMA ♡
What does Carma mean?
The name is literally a little bit of both of us.“Car” comes from Carly and “ma” comes from Gemma = Carma.
But it also represents something much bigger. We want Carma Club to be about creating good karma — kindness, good energy, connection and community.
Who are Carly & Gemma?
We’re the founders of Carma Club, friends of more than 20 years and between us have spent over two decades working within the fitness and wellness industry.
After watching the industry change over the years, we wanted to create the kind of place we’d want to go ourselves — friendly, fun, welcoming and never too serious.
What do you mean by feel-good movement?
Movement shouldn’t always be about calories, punishment or what your body looks like.
For us, it’s about how movement makes you feel — stronger, happier, more energised, more confident and connected to the people around you.
What if I find gyms intimidating?
Then you might have just found your people.
Carma isn’t a traditional gym. We’ve deliberately created a space where you can turn up as yourself, move at your own level, have a laugh and feel part of something.
Do I need to be good at Pilates, Yoga or Dance?
Absolutely not! You don’t come to Carma because you’re already good at something. You come to move, learn, have fun and feel good.
Two left feet? Welcome. Can’t touch your toes? Welcome. Haven’t exercised in years? Also welcome.
Is Carma just for women?
No. Carma is for everyone who wants to move, recover and be part of a welcoming community.
Can I come on my own?
Please do! Lots of people will walk through our doors on their own for the first time.
We’ll do everything we can to make sure you’re welcomed, shown around and don’t feel like the awkward new person standing in the corner.
What makes Carma different from a traditional gym?
We’re not about rows of machines and putting your headphones in without speaking to anyone.
Carma brings together feel-good group movement, recovery and genuine community under one roof.
Great music. Brilliant instructors. Laughter. Movement. Recovery. Kindness. Connection.
That’s Carma. ♡
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