Pilates is a low-impact exercise method that focuses on strengthening the core, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall body awareness. It combines breath control, mindful movement, and precise exercises to promote alignment, posture, and muscle strength. Pilates can be done on a mat or using specialized equipment like the Reformer.

Pilates is a method, not a workout, and progress comes through consistent practice over time. Strength, control, and awareness develop through repetition and return, not intensity or occasional attendance. For this reason, Village West is structured as a membership-based teaching studio, allowing clients to build skill gradually and experience lasting change. Our 12-month memberships reflect the time it takes to truly learn the method and integrate the work into the body.

Private sessions are where the foundation of Pilates is built. In a one-on-one setting, instructors can teach the details of the method that cannot be fully addressed in a group class, including individualized cueing, alignment, breath, and how the body interacts with the equipment. Early sessions often feel unfamiliar, and that is expected. Most clients leave their first private session with a clearer understanding of their body and how Pilates works.

Group classes are designed to support and reinforce the work learned in private sessions. They provide a consistent environment to practice, refine, and build upon foundational skills over time. Group classes are not a replacement for private instruction, but a place to apply what has been taught within a focused, guided setting.

Our comprehensive private studio is equipped exclusively with state-of-the-art Balanced Body equipment.

• Studio Reformer/Trapeze Combo (Cadillac)

• Two Studio Reformer/Tower Combos

• Combo Chair

• Two EXO Chairs

• Ladder Barrel

• Spine Correctors and Small Barrels

• Weight rack and more

Your instructor will thoughtfully select the equipment that best supports your goals and needs. We follow an open studio concept inspired by Joseph Pilates’ original space, meaning more than one private session may take place at the same time. This creates a focused, active environment while maintaining individual attention.

The ideal number of classes depends on your personal goals and schedule. For most people, 2-3 classes per week is a great starting point for building strength and flexibility without overtraining. Once Pilates becomes part of your routine, a typical practice is 3-5 classes per week to see lasting results. Consistency is key, but always listen to your body and rest when needed.

A Reformer is a piece of Pilates equipment that consists of a sliding platform, springs for resistance, and adjustable straps. It allows for a wider variety of movements and exercises than mat Pilates and can be used to target specific muscle groups more effectively. The Reformer offers greater support and allows for modifications, making it suitable for people of all fitness levels.

Mat Pilates: This is the traditional Pilates method performed on the floor using a mat. It focuses on bodyweight exercises that target core strength, stability, and flexibility.

Reformer Pilates: Involves the use of a Reformer machine, which uses springs for resistance. This allows for a greater range of motion and more dynamic exercises, making it easier to challenge and modify movements based on your fitness level.

Both methods are highly effective, and each offers its own benefits! A well-rounded routine incorporates both styles.

Not at all! Pilates is suitable for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Our instructors are trained to offer modifications and adjustments to suit individual needs.

While Pilates may not burn as many calories as high-intensity cardio workouts, it’s an excellent way to build lean muscle, manage cortisol, and improve body composition. A strong, balanced body burns calories more efficiently, and Pilates helps with overall muscle strength and posture.

Yes! Pilates is known for improving posture, strengthening the core muscles, and increasing flexibility—all of which can help alleviate back pain. Our instructors can guide you through exercises specifically designed to relieve tension and improve alignment. If you have chronic back pain, we recommend consulting with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

Wear comfortable, semi-fitted athletic clothing that allows you to move freely. Avoid loose clothing, as it can get in the way of certain movements. Pilates is practiced in our studio with grip socks for alignment, safety, & comfort.

We have a free, private parking lot located directly in front of our building, exclusively for Village West clients. Please park in our lot first. If it’s full, you’re welcome to use the side lot.

Grip socks are required to take our classes and can be purchased in our studio. We strongly recommend bringing a water bottle with you to stay hydrated. If you have long hair, please bring a hair tie or clip so your hair does not get caught in the reformer.

Our decision to be mirror-free is intentional.

After years spent in a wide range of studios, we’ve found that removing mirrors creates a more grounded and effective learning environment. Pilates is about how movement feels, not how it looks.

Pilates inherently features clear instruction, thoughtful cueing, and moving at a pace that supports your body. In class, you may occasionally turn to view a demonstration, which is normal. In fact, mirrors often pull clients out of alignment, while learning to feel the work helps maintain it.

A mirror-free studio supports:

Deeper awareness.
Clients develop proprioception, the body’s ability to sense alignment and movement without visual feedback. This awareness improves balance, coordination, and confidence in everyday movement and becomes increasingly important as we age.

Fewer distractions.
No visual comparisons, no self-checking. Just focus on breath, control, and strength.

A more inclusive environment.
Removing mirrors reduces comparison and self-consciousness, creating a space where clients of all ages, body types, and experience levels can feel comfortable and present. The emphasis shifts from appearance to capability.

We invite you to experience Pilates in a space designed to help you feel strong, supported, and connected to your body from the inside out.

No. Village West Pilates does not offer hot Pilates.

The Pilates method emphasizes control, breath, and precision rather than fatigue or intensity. Added heat is not necessary to achieve the benefits of Pilates and can interfere with the clarity and control the method requires.

Exercising in high heat raises core temperature and heart rate more quickly, which can lead to earlier fatigue and reduced precision. While increased sweat may create the sensation of working harder, there is limited evidence that heated environments improve Pilates outcomes compared to traditional practice.

Pilates already supports circulation and lymphatic flow through intentional movement, breath, and alignment. For some individuals, excessive heat can increase physical stress and leave the body feeling depleted rather than restored.

We believe Pilates is most effective when practiced without added heat.