Where are the best places to take Pilates classes?

We know all about Pilates, or at least enough to know it is beneficial. But now we need to know how to get started and involved in Pilates.

Places to take Pilates classes: Boutique Studio, Gym, Community Centre, Online Videos

You’ve heard about Pilates. You’ve heard that all the stars you see, athletes you follow and bodies you strive for are doing Pilates. Now you want to try it and see what it’s all about. It’s hard to decide how to start. Do you pick up a book and learn it yourself? Do you get a dvd and follow along until the abs you’ve always wanted magically appear one day? Or do you take a class at your local community centre with 30 other people? 

It’s hard to know how to start. Depending on how you start can determine whether Pilates becomes a part of your life forever or something you chalk up to as an experience but not for you. It’s hard to choose a Pilates instructor class or studio. Even the decision whether to take a Pilates class in a studio, community centre or gym can be tough. Many don’t even know that there are Pilates studios in their city. Over the next few newsletters we will mention points to consider when choosing where and with whom to do Pilates to everything from where to take Pilates to what to look for in an instructor. We’ll consider the pros and cons of each situation. No one option is better or worse than the other. In the end the decision is yours and each decision is as individual as the bodies that will be trained in Pilates. 

Boutique Studio, Gym, Community Centre or Online Videos?

Depending on what brings you to Pilates will help determine whether a studio, community centre, gym, group classes or private sessions is what you’re looking for. If Pilates has been recommended by a health professional, they may have someone who practices Pilates that they can refer you to. This would be the first place to go. If there is no referral, then you’ll have to do a little research. If you’re suffering from injuries, past or present, any physical disorders or issues, undergoing rehabilitation or have just completed rehabilitation, you may want to consider a studio. Most studios have instructors who will be able to tailor exercises to suit your specific needs. Classes are usually smaller and individual attention is usually more likely. The ‘fitness class’ approach is less likely in a studio. Private sessions are also more likely to be an option for those that need individual attention, tailored programs and specific training. The advantage of private sessions is not only is it tailored for your needs but it is usually scheduled at a time that suits your schedule, a great asset in this day in age when we’re all busy with varying schedules!