Picking a pilates studio?
August 9, 2009 9:46 AM Subscribe
How do you choose a good pilates studio? I'm a total pilates beginner; what should I be looking for in a studio? Or, if you're in Toronto, do you know a good pilates studio in or near the Annex?
I've been given the gift of pilates classes, but it's up to me to pick a studio. I've never done pilates before, and while I know I can take trial classes at a studio, there are quite a few studios in my area and I want to create a shortlist before I start signing up for trial packages. I also don't want to waste the gifters' money either by trying out 20 studios, or by signing up with a dud.
Is there any kind of certification I should look out for? Certain 'schools' of pilates which are better than others? Class sizes? Equipment?
Thanks!
I've been given the gift of pilates classes, but it's up to me to pick a studio. I've never done pilates before, and while I know I can take trial classes at a studio, there are quite a few studios in my area and I want to create a shortlist before I start signing up for trial packages. I also don't want to waste the gifters' money either by trying out 20 studios, or by signing up with a dud.
Is there any kind of certification I should look out for? Certain 'schools' of pilates which are better than others? Class sizes? Equipment?
Thanks!
Best answer: Teaching styles really vary and affect how much I enjoy the classes. As a beginner you may not be quite as fussy as me!
There are different types of pilates: floor work and machines, the latter being more expensive. As a beginner you can get a lot out of floor work, which I also happen to prefer too.
I would look for a place that does dedicated beginner's classes rather than drop in/drop out as pilates is definitely a skill that builds sequentially and your teacher can help you better if everyone is on the same page, rather than worrying about lots of different levels in the class.
Class size is also important - getting your positions correct totally determines how much work your muscles do. Invariably, the position your body wants to do is the easiest one, and unfortunately (for me at least) it's rarely the correct one. Once the teacher tweaks your pose you work a lot harder. So, your teacher needs to be able to get around everyone and check you, especially when you are first starting out. I find class size of 6 gives me the right balance between teacher input and not feeling too self-conscious.
Lastly, surroundings are important too, so bear this in mind when you look at the studio where the classes are usually done. Is it bright and airy, well-ventilated? (You'll be surprised by how much you can sweat doing pilates) Is the floor non-smelly (I used to do a class on a very old carpet which was a bit off-putting).
If you can, ask to observe a class rather than payint to take part, as this might help you get a feel for what you like. Your post has reminded me I should sign up for classes again, it's been too long!
Hope you enjoy it too.
posted by Skaramoosh at 12:00 PM on August 9, 2009
There are different types of pilates: floor work and machines, the latter being more expensive. As a beginner you can get a lot out of floor work, which I also happen to prefer too.
I would look for a place that does dedicated beginner's classes rather than drop in/drop out as pilates is definitely a skill that builds sequentially and your teacher can help you better if everyone is on the same page, rather than worrying about lots of different levels in the class.
Class size is also important - getting your positions correct totally determines how much work your muscles do. Invariably, the position your body wants to do is the easiest one, and unfortunately (for me at least) it's rarely the correct one. Once the teacher tweaks your pose you work a lot harder. So, your teacher needs to be able to get around everyone and check you, especially when you are first starting out. I find class size of 6 gives me the right balance between teacher input and not feeling too self-conscious.
Lastly, surroundings are important too, so bear this in mind when you look at the studio where the classes are usually done. Is it bright and airy, well-ventilated? (You'll be surprised by how much you can sweat doing pilates) Is the floor non-smelly (I used to do a class on a very old carpet which was a bit off-putting).
If you can, ask to observe a class rather than payint to take part, as this might help you get a feel for what you like. Your post has reminded me I should sign up for classes again, it's been too long!
Hope you enjoy it too.
posted by Skaramoosh at 12:00 PM on August 9, 2009
The PMA is the most well-respected governing body in terms of direct connection to Joseph Pilates' original teaching methods. While there are certainly great teachers & studios who are not closely affiliated with those methods, it can be useful to start with a solid understanding of what the original program entailed, and then evolve to suit your needs.
posted by judith at 1:15 PM on August 9, 2009
posted by judith at 1:15 PM on August 9, 2009
Response by poster: Thanks for the tips so far; Yelp lists studios in my neighbourhood, but there's not much in the way of reviews.
posted by iona at 3:42 PM on August 9, 2009
posted by iona at 3:42 PM on August 9, 2009
The best Pilates instructors I've had have two things going for them - mulitple years of instruction and an additional background in classical dance or physical therapy. There are a lot of people in my area who get a Stott certification almost as a mid-life crisis kind of thing, and I haven't heard much good about those studios. So in my opinion, ask about the instructors' background, take a trial class, and don't be afraid to take a pass if you don't like the studio or the instructor.
And you'll get much more out of it as a beginner if you get multiple private Reformer sessions. I couldn't believe how much stronger I got in the first six weeks of privates.
Hope this helps.
posted by lucydriving at 7:54 PM on August 9, 2009
And you'll get much more out of it as a beginner if you get multiple private Reformer sessions. I couldn't believe how much stronger I got in the first six weeks of privates.
Hope this helps.
posted by lucydriving at 7:54 PM on August 9, 2009
This thread is closed to new comments.
I've only taken classes at one place, and can't speak to certification or schools, although my understanding is that there are definitely different philosophies at work. I will say that even within one studio, the teaching styles and emphases can vary among teachers.
Good luck, and enjoy it.
posted by gingerbeer at 10:16 AM on August 9, 2009