Taking a class at a yoga or Pilates studio is not cheap. I did an
informal survey of classes in San Francisco, and came up with an average
drop-in rate of $17. If you buy classes in bulk, it's more affordable,
but for many, it's still a luxury that's hard to maintain. A friend of
mine recently opened up his own studio.
Since he can't afford a receptionist yet, he has a steady rotation of
friends who work there in return for free classes. Same goes for any
friends who have more specialized services to offer. The studio's
Twitter account, marketing material, and branding are all done free of
charge by friends who, in exchange, get a free monthly membership.
