Getting Started at Lift Pilates and others FAQs

How do I get started?

There are two ways to get started at LIFT PILATES; by scheduling a private or duet appointment or by attending a group mat class (although we almost always recommend private sessions first whenever possible because it’s really the details which are so important in Pilates, and private sessions ensure a firm foundation—kind of like learning to add and subtract before attempting algebra!).

Most of our mat classes are “mixed level” and are for average healthy adults who have had some movement experience, such as group exercise, dance or yoga. If you have Pilates experience and you assimilate verbal cues well, you may also sign up for a Barre XS or a Springboard Class (find out more about these classes by clicking on the “Our Studio” tab, located at the top of the page)..

How do I get started doing Reformer/Equipment classes?

Reformer/Equipment classes require that you do a set of private or duet sessions first, because the equipment is rather complicated and you need to learn how to use it before getting into a group class. We have found that it takes between five and ten private/duet sessions to get you ready for a group reformer/equipment class (find out more about these classes on the “Our Studio” tab, located at the top of the page). If you have been doing Pilates at another studio, you may be able to skip the private sessions. Call or email us and we will give you a free evaluation.

May I observe a class before I decide?

Yes. You are welcome at any time to observe any of our classes before joining. Just let the instructor know that you are there to observe a class.

What if I’m unable to do private sessions first?

If you're new to Pilates and don't have movement experience and you are unable to do a private session, we recommend our Tuesday evening beginning mat class at 6:30pm; or, if that time doesn’t work for you, our Monday evening 5:30pm mixed level mat class, our Saturday morning 9:30am mixed level mat class, or our Tuesday/Thursday Pilates Mat with Sue mat class would be a nice place to begin. (Our current Group Class Schedule is posted online)

Please don’t hesitate to email or call Laura if you have any further questions. We are always happy to talk to you about Pilates, it’s what we do!

How do I schedule a private or duet Appointment?

From our website, click on “CLASS SCHEDULE”, which is located in the upper right hand corner of the page. This takes you to our online scheduler and payment system, mindbodyonline.com If you do not have an account, click on “Sign Up” (located in the upper right hand corner) and you will be prompted to create an account for yourself.

Now that you are signed in to mindbodyonline:

To request a private or duet appointment, go to the “Appointments” tab and search for an appointment time. Request the appointment, and then look for an email (within 24 hours) either confirming or denying your appointment request. If you would rather, please call the studio or send Laura an email to schedule your appointment.

What happens during my first Private Session?

A strong foundation is key to your success, and in your first private or duet Pilates session we thoroughly cover all the STOTT PILATES basics: These five biomechanical principles raise awareness of how the body moves and ensures focus on precision and control so that you can realize the full benefits of your exercise program.

1. Breathing
2. Pelvic Placement
3. Ribcage Placement
4. Scapular Stabilization
5. Head and Cervical Placement

During your session, we listen to you to find out what you want from Pilates, and help you to identify and clarify your goals. We assess your posture, and then make recommendations based on our findings and your goals.