What to Expect at Your First Class at Free Hearts
Walking into a new studio for the first time can feel like the hardest part of starting. This guide covers exactly what happens before, during, and after your first class at Free Hearts — so you can show up and just focus on moving.
Come as you are. All are welcome here — that's not just something we say, it's how every first class is run.
Before you arrive
What to wear: Comfortable, breathable clothing you can move freely in. Most classes are done barefoot or in grip socks — Dance, Strength and Boxing classes call for sneakers, and sneakers are optional for Bounce classes. We have grip socks for purchase as well.
What to bring: A water bottle. Mats and any small equipment used in class are provided. We have filtered water to refill your bottle, or you can purchase water from us. If you are attending through ClassPass, there is a 2.00 rental for a mat.
When to arrive: Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early for your first visit — it gives you time to check in, meet your instructor, and settle in before class starts.
Where to go: Free Hearts is on the second floor at 4517 Lorain Ave, Suite 201, Cleveland, OH 44102 — above Guitar Riot in Ohio City. There's a parking lot on-site, plus street parking nearby if the lot's full. You will park in our parking lot and enter through the building side door off of the parking lot.
Checking in
When you arrive, our front desk (or your instructor, depending on the class) will check you in and can help with:
Setting up your account/signing a waiver if this is your first visit
Pointing you toward the studio space, mats, or props you'll need
Answering any last questions before class starts
After Class
Class length varies by format — some run 30 minutes, others run 50 minutes, so check the schedule listing for your specific class. Afterward, feel free to hang around and chat, refill your water, or head out — there's no pressure either way. If you loved it, booking your next class is the easiest next step; if you're still deciding, that's exactly what your intro offer is for. We always encourage chatting with other class takers, our desk staff or your instructor for help on deciding what class to try next, and we know it takes a couple of times to get into a routine, stick with it!
During Class
Every class at Free Hearts is built to meet you where you are. Instructors cue modifications throughout, so you can take the class at the level that's right for you that day — not the level you think you're supposed to be at.
You can expect:
A brief warm-up and intro from your instructor
The main class format (strength, cardio, mindfulness, or a mix — depending what you booked)
Cool-down and stretch to close things out
There's no judgment if you need to modify, take a break, or ask questions mid-class — that's built into how we teach.
FAQs
What should I wear to my first class?
1
Comfortable clothing you can move in. Most classes are done in bare feet or grip socks — Strength, Dance, and Boxing classes require sneakers, and sneakers are optional for Bounce if you have troublesome feet.
Do I need to bring my own equipment?
2
No — mats and any props used during class are provided. Just bring a water bottle. If you are on ClassPass, mats can be rented for $2.
How early should I arrive for my first class?
3
Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early so you have time to check in and get oriented before class starts. We have a grace period if you are running late, but for the first class it is always nice to get in there early.
I'm nervous about being new — is that normal?
4
Completely. Free Hearts is built for people at every level, including complete beginners. Instructors cue modifications throughout every class, and there's no expectation that you already know what you're doing. We all start somewhere!
What if I don't know which class to start with?
5
Start with whichever class sounds most interesting to you — we love our intro offers to allow you to try new things! If you have specific goals and questions, always reach out to us and we can help!
Ready to Try Your First Class?
You don't need experience, the right gear, or a plan — just show up. Your first class is covered by our intro offer: 2 Weeks Unlimited for $40, or 3 Classes for $29. We got you!