Woman exercising at pilates studio

Finding the right pilates studio doesn’t have to be difficult.

Considering the incredible health benefits of Pilates, its demand has grown incredibly over the last decade. This has led to the opening of a number of Pilates studios across the country. The services offered at these studios vary greatly. While some studios have experienced and qualified Pilates instructors, other institutions are just minting money from this golden opportunity. This is why you need to be extra careful while selecting a Pilates studio as, like any other workout, improper practice of Pilates can have adverse effects on the body. Below are a few factors you should consider when selecting a Pilates studio.

What is the main objective of the Pilates studio?

Pilates has the power to completely transform your body. From helping you maintain a balanced body to treating a number of injuries and conditions, this mode of exercise is certain to help you lead a contented life. This is why it is necessary that the studio you are trusting with your health is as serious about it as you are. If a Pilates studio makes promises that you’ll lose a certain amount of weight or look like a model in six months, be wary. Sheppard Method Pilates is a classical form of Pilates and not only focuses on physical health, but also mental health. A Pilates studio should focus on your overall health – not just the way you look.

What qualifications/experience do the instructors have?

The benefits you can reap from a Pilates session are proportional to the training of your instructor. If a studio is full of Pilates certified instructors, it is likely that they know their stuff. Getting a Pilates certification requires an individual to undertake hundreds of hours of training that include experience in the classroom, assistant teaching, observation and self study. Proper understanding of how to operate the advanced equipment is also mandatory.

A reliable Pilates instructor should also have hands-on experience with all equipment such as the Pilates reformer, cadillac, and chair. These are the most common Pilates instruments used by instructors and they can have wondrous effects on the body when used effectively.

Choosing a Pilates studio that employs experienced and qualified instructors is particularly important if you have a certain injury or condition that you would like to work through with Pilates. Experienced teachers can use their knowledge and expertise to help you recover from your injury or reduce symptoms of certain medical conditions.

Before joining any Pilates studio, make sure to ask about the instructors and their qualifications.

What are the facilities like?

If you’re serious about your Pilates practice, you’ll likely be spending a considerable amount of time at the studio. Therefore, the availability of different facilities such as restrooms, airy practicing areas and changing rooms with proper arrangements is necessary.

What kind of Pilates equipment is available for use?

You will need a variety of equipment to achieve your fitness goals. These include, but are not limited to, chairs, reformers, small barrels, high barrels and tower stations. Many Pilates reformer classes in Westwood have all this equipment available in the studios.

If you’re currently on the hunt for a reputable Pilates studio, we encourage you to stop by Sheppard Method Pilates and experience our studio up close and personal. We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about classes, private pilates, Pilates instructor certification and more. We look forward to meeting you!