SOMA Studios

SOMA Studios is a boutique Pilates studio in Msida, built around the reformer, the sprung carriage machine that makes Pilates feel quite different from a floor class. Alongside reformer sessions you will find mat Pilates, yoga and heated classes, with a timetable that starts as early as 6am for anyone who likes to train before work.

The studio sits in The Atrium Building, a short hop from the harbour inlet that divides Valletta from Gżira, so it works for residents, people on a longer stay and visitors who want a proper class rather than a hotel gym. It appears in our directory of Pilates studios in Malta.

Reformer, mat, yoga and speciality classes

Reformer classes come in three styles. Foundations is the gentle entry point, where you learn the set-up, alignment and key movements at an easy pace. Form concentrates on technique and deeper muscle work, with slower tempo and resistance, and welcomes all levels. Fire is the high-energy option: fast sequences, cardio bursts and heavy resistance for intermediate to advanced clients. It is not a heated class.

Mat classes are grouped as Slow, Sculpt, Spicy and Sweat, so you can choose between a mindful session and something more demanding. Yoga is offered for every level. Heated classes take place in a room lit in red, which suits anyone who likes to work up a proper sweat.

There are also speciality sessions for mums, a 40+ Club and women-only classes. Music is central to the studio's approach, with playlists chosen to keep the room lively, and the ethos is body positivity: no weighing, ranking or leaderboards. Teachers adapt springs and exercises for different bodies, and you can flag an injury when you book so that your teacher already knows.

Prices, memberships and your first visit

New clients can start with any three classes for €50, with 14 days to use them, which works out at roughly €16.67 a class. Beginners are placed right beside the teacher, so every move is explained. After that, drop-in classes are from €23 each, monthly memberships come in Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum levels starting at €84, and class packs are sold in bundles of 5, 10 or 20.

Booking and payment run through an online timetable that updates in real time. Cancel at least 12 hours before a class and your credit is returned. Wear whatever you already own, but grip socks are required; you can buy a pair at the front desk if you forget yours.

For anyone arriving from the UK on a longer stay, the early slots are handy: Malta's weather guide explains why many people prefer to exercise first thing before the summer heat builds.

The founders, the community and the extras

SOMA was founded by Shana, who fell for Pilates in Australia, and her brother Alain, who backed the idea of bringing it home to Malta. The studio also has a resident mascot, Bonnie the dog, whose official title is Emotional Support Manager.

Beyond classes there is a social side called the SOMA Society. Recent events include Pilates and Paint at Castello Zamittello, a golf-green meet-up and a Halloween movie night on Friday 30 October at 7:30pm, limited to 15 people. Private events can also be arranged.

The studio sells its own grip socks, t-shirts and tote bags. In October it is running a pink-sock campaign with Abrazo, including a SOMA smoothie, and €1 from every pair sold that month goes to breast cancer awareness foundations.

If you want a wider active week, 24/7 Fitness Club in San Ġwann is a nearby gym, and A New Better Life is listed among our nutritionists. For things to fill the rest of the day, see things to do in Malta and the Valletta guide.

Getting there and getting in touch

The studio is in Msida, close to Valletta, so it is easy to combine with sightseeing. If you are still choosing a base, our guide on where to stay in Malta compares the main areas, and the Malta relocation guide helps if you are settling for longer. Remote workers can look at the digital nomad guide for ideas on building routines around flexible hours.

To ask about classes, memberships, merchandise, pregnancy guidance or a private event, use the VisitMalta.co.uk enquiry form on this page and we will pass your message to SOMA Studios.