[solidcore] - Chelsea

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[solidcore] - Chelsea

New York City, USA

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The [solidcore] Story

[solidcore] was founded in 2013 by serial fitness entrepreneur Anne Mahlum. The brand, which offers a full body workout on a pilates-inspired reformer, is now heading towards 100 operational locations across the US. They’ve also partnered with Equinox to add their workouts to the Variis app, bringing the [solidcore] experience to homes worldwide. The core-focused “immersive experience” has been visited by celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston, Calvin Harris, and Michelle Obama.

How Did [solidcore] Chelsea Score Overall?

The full client experience at [solidcore] Chelsea was impressive, achieving our Fit Guide Award Of Excellence.

The class was also very good, winning our Class Experience Award of Excellence.

[solidcore] Chelsea is featured in our article The Top Fitness Studios In New York, Independently Rated and Ranked as well as our Best Pilates Studios in New York piece.

The Highlights

The instructor was clearly experienced and offered clients her undivided attention throughout the session. We found the experience to be very well structured from start to finish.

The immaculate, on-brand studio was also a highlight.

What Our Evaluator Had To Say

“The coach offered easier or harder movements that were tailored to the client’s ability level.”

“The coach clearly enjoyed teaching the class.”

“The studio was dimly lit and had upbeat music that added to the experience.”

What To Expect From A [solidcore] Session

[solidcore] is a 50-minute, total-body, strength workout on a Pilates-inspired reformer. They use slow, controlled movements to break down the slow-twitch muscle fibers, helping to build a stronger and leaner body. The atmospherically lit studio completes the "immersive experience".

[solidcore] stands out by bringing different levels of intensity and efficiency to the workout experience – appealing to those who believe that the joy is in the work, and that there is always work to be done.

With a focus on empowering communities and creating a space where everyone feels inspired, included, and seen, [solidcore] is on a mission to help people build strength, inside and out.

The Reception Service

Attempts to contact the club by phone were unsuccessful.

Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly and given a helpful verbal orientation of the facilities. Overall, the check-in process was smooth and efficient.

On departure, the receptionist confidently explained membership options and highlighted a new client special offer. They remained engaged and focused during the conversation, maintaining eye contact and demonstrating good knowledge of the packages.

The Class Experience

[solidcore] Chelsea has received The Fit Guide Class Experience Award of Excellence for its impressive class experience.

The session was engaging and challenging, delivered with professionalism and enthusiasm. Our coach kept the energy high, making sure we all felt supported and encouraged. Clear verbal instructions and well-structured progressions allowed participants of all fitness levels to push themselves while maintaining good form. Individual adjustments and motivating cues added to the positive atmosphere.

The workout flowed seamlessly and left us with a strong sense of accomplishment. While beginners received extra guidance, an injury check and a more structured induction for us as first time visitors would have been appreciated. The absence of a warm-up or cooldown was noticeable but didn’t take away from the coach’s genuine enthusiasm and effort to build a sense of community. Overall, it was a fun and motivating experience that blended effective training with connection and camaraderie.

The Equipment And Studio

The training room featured high-quality, spotless equipment, all in excellent condition. The branded machines added a cohesive, professional touch, and the well-spaced layout ensured a seamless workout experience.

Dimmed lighting with blue effects created a calming yet sophisticated atmosphere, while inspirational quotes on the walls added a thoughtful branding element. The clean, comfortable setting, paired with a high-quality sound system, made for an impressive experience that felt polished and on-brand.

The Facilities And Public Areas

The studio offered a visually engaging and branded environment with cool design elements like wood walls and blue wallpapered accents in line with its industrial aesthetic. However, despite the ambiance, the lack of practical facilities detracted from the overall experience. There were no showers or workout towels provided. The changing area was quite small and dark, and lacked a bench, making it challenging for us to change comfortably.

The spaces were kept clean, and essential amenities were available. Beverage options, including Celsius energy drinks, were a nice touch.

Digital And Technology

The club's online booking system and branded app made reservations easy and seamless, with clear instructions on arrival times and cancellation policies. The branch-specific website provided strong details on class schedules and coach bios, though social media lacked direct links to booking pages.

The website was professional, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. It effectively conveyed the brand’s values with inclusive and encouraging copy, emphasizing diversity and inclusion. High-quality content, including detailed coach bios and class descriptions, added to the overall client experience.

The club used the Mindbody online booking platform and a branded app for reservations.

Pricing

[solidcore] Chelsea have a ‘new client special’, offering unlimited sessions for two weeks at $109. Alternatively, there is a "Buy 1 Get 1 Free" offer available for $22.

If you’re looking for a longer-term commitment, monthly-billed memberships are available from $120 for four classes per month up to $300 for 12 classes per month. These require a 12-month commitment.

Drop-in sessions are available at $43 per class during peak times, and $35 at off-peak times. Smaller commitment packages are also available, starting at a five-pack for $41 per class.

Top Scoring Categories

Reception Services
four
Class Experience
four
Equipment & Studio
five
Digital & Technology
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