How To Choose the Right Pilates Studio for You

Are you ready for a new health and body journey? Pilates classes are a great way to get there. The only problem is the pages of results that come up when you search ‘the best Pilates studios near me.’ So, how do you choose the right studio for you out of this never-ending list? What should you look for when browsing Pilates studios, so you know it’s going to be worth your time and money? Here’s our guide on choosing the right Pilates studio for you.

Make your search easier by comparing and contrasting different Pilates studios with these standards. Each one will directly impact your workout and how much you’re getting from each session. You should be picky with something as important as your body and your health.

Pilates Instructors and Certifications

Honestly, the number one consideration when looking at Pilates studios needs to be the instructors and their training. The Pilates industry isn’t regulated like many other fitness industries, so find a studio with instructors who went through a reputable certification program. Instructors should have hours of training, practice, and student teaching. Comprehensive teacher training programs focus on functional anatomy, physiology, and prepare instructors to guide you safely on your fitness journey.

Connection and Session Flow

Pilates classes are about more than just the quality of instruction. Teaching styles vary between instructors and finding an instructor you enjoy learning from speeds along your process. There are as many teaching styles as there are personalities. One instructor might be loud and energetic, and others are more soft-spoken and gentle. When choosing a studio, make sure you enjoy their style of teaching and the way the sessions flow.

While choosing a studio based on vibe might seem silly at first, it’ll influence your whole workout. The best Pilates studios have warm, friendly staff, a great atmosphere, and plenty of classmates you enjoy talking with. The more you enjoy the experience, the more you’re going to actually want to do the workout. On days when you don’t feel motivated, a friendly studio is going to make or break your motivation to go to your Pilates classes.

Fantastic instructors will make the entire session flow in a way that connects exercises, movement, and breath. They adapt to their students' mood, energy, and mindset in a group class or focus on how you’re doing in private lessons and tailor the flow to match your energy levels.

Location

No one wants to sit in a traffic jam every day for hours just to get to their Pilates classes. If you have more than one location option, consider one that will let you stop on your way from work or that is a shorter drive down the road. By picking an easily accessible studio to take your Pilates classes in, you’ll be more likely to go (and less likely to create an excuse to skip a session). Not to mention, there’s a better chance you’ll make friends with the ladies who attend classes with you.

A Few More Tips

While every one of these points makes a great checklist for choosing your Pilates studio, there are a few other factors worth considering. The class size should be on the smaller side so you can get the most out of your individual learning and progression. Not to mention, proper equipment like reformers and jumpboards help you learn a variety of techniques while doing Pilates.

If you’re ready to try Pilates and want to give Absolute Pilates a try, get started with our simple one-on-one planning. By trying out a few studios nearby you, you’ll be able to find one that vibes well and fits your learning style. That said, we think you’ll love Absolute Pilates’ welcoming community. Hope to see you there!