Frequently Asked Questions

What class should I start with?

If you’re new to Pilates or the reformer, we recommend beginning with our Balance class. It’s designed to introduce you to Pilates principles, reformer basics, and safe movement patterns.

If you’ve taken Pilates before or feel confident on the reformer, you may be ready for Build. Your instructor can help guide you to the best fit based on your experience and goals.

How often should I take class?
For most clients, attending 2–3 times per week is a great way to build consistency, improve strength, and feel results. Even once a week is helpful, especially if you’re just starting out, or using Pilates to supplement your current fitness routine.

Should I do privates first?

Private sessions are great if you’re completely new, have injuries, or are feeling nervous about class. They allow your instructor to give you one-on-one attention and help you build confidence before joining group classes.

What if I’m injured or have limitations?

We always recommend letting your instructor know about any injuries or conditions. You might start with a private session or select a class that accommodates your needs safely.

Can I freeze my membership?

Yes! You can pause your membership for up to 30 days per year, in increments of 7, 14, or 30 days. To request a pause, simply fill out our pause request form located under the Contact tab on our website. Once submitted, our team will take care of the rest.

What if I’m running late?

For new clients, arriving more than a few minutes late means you might miss your introduction to the reformer, so we usually reschedule you for the next available class. For regular clients, late arrivals may be allowed quietly, depending on the instructor’s discretion.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a method of movement that focuses on strength, mobility, and body awareness. It emphasizes controlled, precise movements, core engagement, and proper alignment. Pilates is low-impact, making it gentle on the joints while still highly effective for improving overall strength, stability, and ease of movement.

What is the history of Pilates?

Pilates—originally called Contrology—was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. His method blended elements of gymnastics, yoga, martial arts, and rehabilitative movement to emphasize strength, flexibility, and control.

During World War I, he refined many of his exercises and even adapted bed springs to create resistance-based movements that later inspired the modern reformer.

After moving to the U.S. in 1926, he and his wife, Clara, opened a New York City studio that quickly became popular among dancers and performers.

He outlined his philosophy in Your Health (1934) and Return to Life Through Contrology (1945), emphasizing mindful, efficient movement and balanced strength.
Today, Pilates is practiced worldwide and continues to support people in moving with more freedom, strength, and confidence.

What is the reformer?

The reformer is a Pilates apparatus with a sliding carriage, adjustable springs for resistance, and straps for your hands and feet. It allows for a wide range of exercises that support proper alignment, develop strength, and challenge the body in dynamic ways.

Whether you’re brand new or experienced, our instructors will guide you through each movement so you feel comfortable and supported.

What are the benefits of Pilates?

Pilates supports both physical and mental well-being. It helps you move with more ease, reduce tension, and feel more connected to your body.

Benefits include:

• Building core and full-body strength

• Improving flexibility and joint mobility

• Enhancing posture and alignment

• Increasing body awareness and control

• Supporting injury prevention and recovery

• Boosting balance and coordination

• Reducing tension and stress, helping you feel more centered and grounded

Do I need to be flexible or strong to do Pilates?

Not at all. Pilates is designed to meet you where you are. You’ll build strength and mobility gradually, and our instructors will guide you through movements that feel safe and supportive for your body.

Is Pilates for me?

Absolutely—if you have a body, Pilates is for you. Joseph Pilates described his method as a way to create a balanced, resilient body with a clear, focused mind.

Whether your daily life includes lifting kids, running, sitting at a desk, strength training, or simply wanting to feel better in your body, Pilates offers something meaningful for everyone.

What should I wear?

Wear any comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely.

We generally recommend avoiding loose shorts, as some movements can feel less comfortable or secure. Men may want to wear compression shorts under their athletic wear for added comfort.

What do I need to bring?

Just yourself and a water bottle—everything else you need is provided in the studio.

Do I need special shoes or equipment?

Nope! Pilates is done barefoot or in grippy socks. Grippy socks are completely optional but welcome if you prefer a bit more traction.

Where are you located?

Our studio is located at 1075 Baxter St., in Baxter Street Lofts—next to Thomas Eye Center and Scope Lighting.

Where should I park?

You’re welcome to park anywhere in the lot behind our building.
Please avoid parking at Thomas Eye Center, as they do tow.