If you have never practiced Pilates before in a studio, the Pilates Place offers special packages to help you understand the fundamentals of the method. Personlized one-on-one classes give you the confidence to join our
group classes. In these sessions we teach you Pilates terminology and breathing techniques, and we show you how to use our machines. Plus, we take time to evaluate your physical abilities and review your health history.
Our aim is to ensure your safety and personalize your program.
If you are new to Pilates or have not practiced in a dedicated Pilates studio, we require that you complete a fundamental class and/or a private session as a prerequisite to joining one of our weekly classes. See our class descriptions to learn more about the requirements.
(for new students only)
Introduction to Pilates - $199
(2 private classes, 4 mat classes and 2 group reformer classes)
Introduction to the Reformer - $145
(2 private classes and 2 group reformer classes)
Introduction to Mat Pilates - $145
(2 private classes and 4 mat classes)
Download the health history form (required for new students) by clicking here (.pdf).
The Pilates "method," developed more than 90 years ago by Joseph H. Pilates, is an exercise system focused on improving flexibility, strength, and body awareness, without necessarily building bulk. The method involves a series of controlled movements performed on specially designed spring-resistant exercise apparatus (the Reformer, the Cadillac, the Spine Corrector, the Ladder Barrel, and the Wunda Chair) or on the floor (mat work), and the sessions are supervised by specially trained instructors. Pilates is resistance exercise, not aerobic (cardio), although the heart rate will certainly rise for a deconditioned individual. However, it's closer to weight lifting than it is to jogging, biking, or other aerobic activities, and so you should consider it resistance exercise.
Two of the key elements of Pilates are core muscle strength and spinal alignment. The core musculature is loosely defined as the spine, abdomen, pelvis, hips, and the muscles that support these structures. Some of the main core muscles are the erector spinae (located in your back along your spine), the internal and external obliques (the sides of your abdomen), the transverse abdominis (located deep in your gut, this muscle pulls your belly button in toward your spine), the rectus abdominis (the "six-pack"), and hip flexors (in your pelvis and upper leg).
During a Pilates session, whether it's on the machines or the floor, your instructor will continuously prompt you to concentrate deeply on your core muscles, as well as on your breath, the contraction of your muscles, and the quality (not quantity) of your movements. These are also key elements of Pilates, and your instructor will emphasize them at every session. The objective is a coordination of mind, body, and spirit.
Practicing the Pilates method of training can lead to phenomenal change in your body - one that you feel and one that shows!
