what is pilates

Pilates, originally known as “Contrology” is a low impact exercise method focusing on core strength, flexibility, balance, and control. Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century to support rehabilitation for injured soldiers, it targets deep stabilizing muscles through precise movements and breath control. With its emphasis on spinal health encapsulated in Joseph Pilates' belief that "You are only as young as your spine is flexible". Pilates enhances posture, mobility, and injury prevention, making it suitable for everyone from athletes to older adults.

reformer

GROUP CLASS APPARATUS

The Pilates Reformer is a versatile apparatus featuring a sturdy frame, cushioned moving carriage, adjustable springs, footbar, straps, and shoulder blocks. It enhances strength, flexibility, posture, and alignment through dynamic, full-body movements.

Key features of the Reformer:

  • Versatility: Adjustable springs and footbar.

  • Design: Combines a sliding carriage, footbar, straps, and shoulder blocks for diverse exercises.

  • Focus: Targets deep core muscles for stability and balance.

  • Flow: Promotes smooth, precise movements.

Designed to build upon and challenge the foundations of Matwork, the Reformer offers a dynamic, elevated approach to your Pilates practice.

Matwork

GROUP CLASS APPARATUS

Matwork in Pilates is the foundation of the method, focusing on exercises performed on a mat using body weight for resistance. It emphasizes core strength, flexibility, balance, and body awareness through precise, controlled movements.

Key features of Matwork:

  • Versatility: Suitable for all levels, with progressions for increased challenge.

  • Accessibility: Requires only a mat, making it easy to practice anywhere.

  • Focus: Strengthens deep abdominal and stabilizing muscles.

  • Flow: Movements are performed in a sequence, promoting fluidity and control.

As the cornerstone of Pilates, Matwork develops essential skills and techniques that translate across all Pilates apparatus.

chair

GROUP CLASS APPARATUS

The Pilates chair is a compact and versatile piece of equipment designed to enhance strength, balance, and flexibility. It features a sturdy base with a padded seat and a spring-loaded pedal that provides resistance for exercises.

Key features of the chair:

  • Pedal Resistance: Adjustable springs create varying levels of difficulty.

  • Compact Design: Ideal for targeting smaller muscle groups and for use in limited spaces.

  • Versatility: Allows for seated, standing, and reclining exercises.

  • Focus: Strengthens the core, upper and lower body, and improves balance and coordination.

Originally developed by Joseph Pilates, the chair is suitable for all fitness levels, offering both foundational and advanced exercises.

Questions?

  • Pilates offers a wide range of benefits, including improved core strength, posture, flexibility, and overall body awareness. It’s also low-impact, making it suitable for all fitness levels and ages. Regular practice can lead to better balance, reduced back pain, and a greater sense of physical well-being.

  • No minimum fitness level is required to begin Pilates. Our classes are designed for all abilities, and our instructors provide modifications for each exercise to meet individual needs. At Karve, we require new clients to complete the Intro Discovery package prior to joining group classes to ensure they’re comfortable with the basics and familiar with the equipment.

  • During your first Pilates session, you’ll be guided through a series of controlled movements designed to improve strength, flexibility, and posture. Instructors will demonstrate each exercise and adjust your form to ensure you’re engaging the right muscles safely and effectively. Classes are designed for all fitness levels, and modifications will be provided.

  • Group classes offer a fun, social environment where you’ll follow a structured workout alongside other clients. While instructors provide individualized attention, they manage the whole group, which is ideal for general fitness and skill-building. Private sessions, on the other hand, are fully customized to your needs and goals, with one-on-one attention from an instructor. This allows for a more tailored approach, which is especially beneficial for those recovering from injuries or focusing on specific areas of improvement. Both group and private sessions require grippy socks at Karve for safety and hygiene.

  • Wear comfortable, fitted workout attire that allows you to move freely. At Karve, we provide all necessary equipment, so you only need a water bottle and a small towel if desired. We have a water fountain to fill your bottle, and if you don’t have grippy socks, they are available for purchase at the studio.

  • For noticeable improvements in strength, flexibility, and posture, we recommend attending a minimum of 3 sessions per week. Consistency is key in Pilates, as the exercises are designed to be progressively challenging. At Karve, we encourage clients to find a routine that works best for their individual goals and needs.

  • Yes, Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise often recommended for injury rehabilitation and prevention. At Karve, our instructors are highly qualified and can modify exercises to accommodate injuries and specific needs. For clients recovering from injuries, we recommend starting with private sessions to regain strength and confidence before transitioning back to group classes.

  • Classes are 50 minutes. We maintain small class sizes to ensure that each client receives personalized attention from the instructor, enhancing the safety and quality of the experience.

  • If a class is full, you can join the waitlist. When someone cancels, clients are added from the waitlist in the order they joined, and you’ll be notified by email or text. To receive a spot, someone must cancel at least two hours before class; after that, open spots become first come, first served. If added from the waitlist and you need to cancel, the late cancellation fee applies, and a no-show incurs the no-show fee, meaning you lose the credit. We recommend only joining the waitlist if you’re sure you can attend.

  • At Karve Pilates, we want to ensure every client has the best experience possible. To keep classes running smoothly and accessible to all, we have the following policies in place:

    Group Classes

    • Please cancel at least 12 hours prior to your scheduled class to avoid fees.

    • For cancellations made within 12 hours, a $15 fee will apply, but your class credit will remain available for future use.

    • If you miss a class without canceling, a $25 no-show fee will be charged, and your class credit will be forfeited.

    Private Lessons (Solo, Duo, Trio)

    • A 24-hour cancellation notice is required for all private lessons.

    • If you cancel within 24 hours or do not show up, your lesson credit will be forfeited.

    Waitlist Bookings

    • Once you are moved from the waitlist into a class, the same cancellation and no-show policies apply.

    • A late cancellation results in the $15 fee, while a no-show incurs both the $25 fee and a forfeited credit. We recommend joining the waitlist only if you are confident you can attend.

    We appreciate your understanding and support in helping us maintain fairness, consistency, and accountability for all clients.