Frequently asked questions

Reformer Pilates is a form of exercise performed on a specialized machine called a reformer. The reformer uses springs, straps, and a sliding carriage to create resistance that helps build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance body awareness. Unlike mat Pilates which uses body weight, the reformer provides variable resistance that can make exercises easier or more challenging depending on your needs.

The main difference is equipment. Mat Pilates uses your body weight and gravity for resistance, performed on a mat on the floor. Reformer Pilates uses a machine with springs and pulleys that provide adjustable resistance. The reformer offers more exercise variety, better support for beginners, and allows for progressive resistance training. Many find reformer Pilates more accessible when starting out.

Wear form-fitting athletic clothing that allows you to move freely without excess fabric getting caught in equipment. Recommended attire includes:

• Fitted leggings or shorts
• Tank top or fitted t-shirt
• Sports bra for additional support
• Grip socks (required for hygiene and safety)
• Hair tied back if long Avoid loose clothing, zippers, or jewelry that could catch on equipment.

No, you don’t need to be flexible to begin Pilates. In fact, Pilates is excellent for improving flexibility. The reformer assists your movements and stretches, making it accessible regardless of your current flexibility level. Our instructors provide modifications for all abilities, and you’ll gradually improve flexibility through consistent practice.

Yes! Reformer Pilates is excellent for beginners. The equipment provides support and resistance that can be adjusted to any fitness level. Beginner classes focus on learning proper form, understanding the equipment, and building foundational strength. Our certified instructors ensure you feel comfortable and confident from your first class.

Pilates pricing in Dallas varies by studio and package type:

• Single drop-in class: $35-45
• Intro packages: $75 for 3 classes (new members)
• 5-class package: $160 ($32 per class)
• 10-class package: $300 ($30 per class)
• Monthly unlimited: $189
• Private sessions: $120 per hour Prices reflect the specialized equipment, small class sizes, and expert instruction provided.

Our unlimited monthly membership ($189) includes:

• Unlimited group reformer classes at all locations
• Priority booking up to 3 weeks in advance
• 10% discount on retail and workshops
• 2 guest passes per month
• Access to member-only events
• Free mat classes and special workshops
• Ability to freeze membership when needed

Yes, memberships can be frozen for up to 60 days per year with 7 days advance notice. This is perfect for vacations or temporary schedule changes. Cancellations require 30 days notice and can be done through your online account or by contacting the studio. We don’t believe in locking you into long-term contracts.

We offer various discount programs:

• Student discount: 15% off monthly memberships with valid ID
• Senior discount (65+): 15% off all packages
• Healthcare workers: 10% off memberships
• Corporate wellness programs available
• Military discount: 15% off Contact us to learn about current promotional offers.

Yes, Pilates is highly effective for managing and reducing back pain. The method strengthens core muscles that support your spine, improves posture, and increases flexibility in tight areas that contribute to back pain. Many physical therapists recommend Pilates for back pain management. However, always consult your healthcare provider first and inform instructors about any back issues.

While Pilates isn’t primarily a cardiovascular workout, it contributes to weight loss through:

• Building lean muscle mass that increases metabolism
• Improving body composition (muscle-to-fat ratio)
• Reducing stress-related cortisol levels
• Increasing body awareness for better lifestyle choices
• Creating sustainable exercise habits Combined with proper nutrition and some cardio, Pilates effectively supports weight loss goals.

Yes, with doctor’s approval and proper modifications. Prenatal Pilates offers numerous benefits:

• Maintains core strength safely
• Reduces back pain common in pregnancy
• Improves posture as body changes
• Prepares body for labor and delivery
• Aids faster postpartum recovery We offer specialized prenatal classes with certified instructors experienced in pregnancy modifications.

No, Pilates will not make you bulky. The method creates long, lean muscles through:

• Controlled, precise movements
• Full range of motion exercises
• Emphasis on lengthening while strengthening
• Moderate resistance rather than heavy weights
• High repetition with proper form The result is improved muscle tone and definition without significant size increase.

Absolutely! Pilates is ideal for older adults because it’s:

• Low-impact and joint-friendly
• Improves balance and reduces fall risk
• Maintains bone density
• Enhances flexibility and mobility
• Can be modified for any limitation
• Promotes independence in daily activities We offer senior-specific classes with appropriate pace and modifications.

Absolutely! Pilates is ideal for older adults because it’s:

• Low-impact and joint-friendly
• Improves balance and reduces fall risk
• Maintains bone density
• Enhances flexibility and mobility
• Can be modified for any limitation
• Promotes independence in daily activities We offer senior-specific classes with appropriate pace and modifications.

Yes, improving posture is one of Pilates’ primary benefits. The method:

• Strengthens postural muscles
• Increases awareness of alignment
• Balances muscle groups
• Reduces compensation patterns
• Addresses modern “tech neck” issues Many members report standing taller and experiencing less neck and shoulder pain within weeks.

Most group reformer classes are 50 minutes long, providing:

• 5-minute warm-up
• 35-40 minutes main workout
• 5-10 minutes cool-down and stretching Express lunch classes run 30 minutes for busy schedules. Private sessions typically last 55 minutes. This duration allows for comprehensive full-body workout without overexertion.

We limit group classes to 12 participants maximum. This ensures:

• Personalized attention from instructors
• Safe environment for all levels
• Proper form correction
• Community feel without overcrowding Beginner classes are capped at 8 for extra guidance. Private and semi-private options available for those preferring smaller settings.

Beginner classes feature:

• Slower pace for learning
• Extra explanation of exercises
• More basic movements
• Additional modifications offered
• Focus on form over intensity
• Smaller class sizes (max 8) Regular classes assume familiarity with equipment and basic exercises, moving at moderate pace with varied difficulty levels.

For optimal results:

• Beginners: 2-3 times per week
• Intermediate: 3-4 times per week
• Advanced: 4-6 times per week Consistency matters more than frequency. Regular practice 2-3 times weekly yields better results than sporadic intense sessions. Allow rest days for muscle recovery, especially when starting.

While Pilates is gentle enough for daily practice, we recommend:

• Starting with 2-3 sessions weekly
• Gradually increasing frequency
• Including rest days for recovery
• Varying intensity levels
• Listening to your body’s signals Advanced practitioners often practice 5-6 times weekly safely, but building to this level takes time.

Your first reformer Pilates class includes:

1. Early arrival (15 minutes) for orientation
2. Introduction to reformer equipment
3. Overview of class structure and safety
4. Gentle warm-up exercises
5. Basic movements with detailed instruction
6. Modifications as needed
7. Cool-down and stretching Expect to feel muscles you didn’t know existed and possibly experience the “Pilates shake” – both completely normal!

Some muscle soreness 24-48 hours after class is normal, especially when beginning. This indicates muscles are adapting and strengthening. Soreness typically decreases as your body adjusts. To minimize discomfort:

• Stay hydrated
• Stretch after class
• Take warm baths
• Keep moving gently
• Attend next scheduled class Sharp pain is not normal – inform instructors immediately.

Results timeline varies by individual, but typically:

• Week 1-2: Feel more energized and aware of posture
• Week 3-4: Notice improved core strength and flexibility
• Week 6-8: See muscle definition and body changes
• Week 10-12: Experience significant strength and posture improvements Joseph Pilates said: “In 10 sessions you’ll feel different, in 20 you’ll look different, in 30 you’ll have a completely new body.”

The “Pilates shake” refers to muscle trembling during exercises, especially in plank or leg positions. This is completely normal and indicates:

• Muscles working at capacity
• Deep stabilizers engaging
• Building new strength
• Proper muscle activation The shaking decreases as you get stronger. It’s actually a sign you’re working effectively!

Yes! Many professional athletes incorporate Pilates for:

• Injury prevention
• Core stability
• Flexibility and mobility
• Balance and coordination
• Mind-body awareness
• Recovery and rehabilitation
• Performance enhancement We offer athletic-focused classes emphasizing power, agility, and sport-specific movements.

Absolutely! Pilates was created by a man (Joseph Pilates) and benefits men through:

• Core strength development
• Flexibility improvement
• Injury prevention
• Athletic performance enhancement
• Posture correction
• Stress reduction While classes often have more women, men are welcome and thrive in our studios

While we focus on adult classes, teens 16+ can attend with parental consent. Benefits for young people include:

• Posture improvement (combat “tech neck”)
• Core strength for sports
• Body awareness during growth
• Healthy exercise habits
• Stress management tools
• Non-competitive environment

With proper modifications, Pilates excellently supports injury recovery:

• Low-impact movement
• Controlled, precise exercises
• Focus on alignment
• Gradual strength building
• Improved body awareness Always get medical clearance and inform instructors about injuries for appropriate modifications.

Yes! We offer:

• Single drop-in classes ($35)
• Intro special: 3 classes for $75
• Studio tours by appointment
• Free consultation for specific concerns We’re confident you’ll love Pilates and want you to feel comfortable before committing.

Booking is easy:

1. Visit our online schedule
2. Create a free account
3. Purchase intro package (3 classes for $75)
4. Select preferred class time and location
5. Arrive 15 minutes early for orientation Or call us at (469) 949-5306 for assistance.