How to Get Started

Intro to the Studio

Introduction

Our studio is a little different and we think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the way we do things. We're very focused on your individual success, so whether you're totally new to Pilates, or a seasoned Pilates instructor, you'll start your journey with us by taking the Studio Foundation class.

This introductory orientation and basic training is required before you can take any other class at Pilates Tonic, including private sessions or workshops.

Studio Foundation is a private session designed to assess your needs and goals and make sure you get the most out of your experience at Pilates Tonic. Because we do so much more than basic Pilates here, this orientation will also give you an overview of everything we offer at the studio.

We've found that by creating this special orientation and learning experience, we can radically improve your results. During your Studio Foundation session we'll assess your strengths and weaknesses and match you up with exactly the right classes for you. We also teach you anatomy and alignment basics so that when you start moving in class, you will

Studio Foundation is a private orientation session you will have with a Pilates Tonic instructor. They'll ask you questions about your goals, frustrations and needs and help design a custom program that will help you reach your goals faster than you might imagine. They'll also analyze your basic alignment explain the basics of studio classes and how

It’s important to us (and to you) that you receive the ultimate value from your experience at Pilates Tonic and for that to happen meeting one-on-one with you in the beginning so we can learn about your specific needs and teach you how to get the most out of every session you will ever have at Pilates Tonic.

Each person has unique goals, which means each person also requires a unique protocol to help them reach those goals.

We offer private sessions, Fascial Stretch Therapy, outdoor cardio and a variety of group mat and equipment classes.

If your goal is to take classes, there are specific connections in your body and alignment objectives you need to master before diving into classes. If these connections are missing, or your alignment is off, you’ll get little or no benefit from your efforts in class.

When your connections and alignment are good, you'll be amazed by your results. This is the kind of attention we always wanted when we first started going to studios for all types of exercise and so we're excited to be able to do this for you as you begin your journey with us.

Even if you never come back to the studio, you’ll learn things about your body in your Studio Foundation session that you’ll take with you into your daily life and all of your other activities.

Your initial private sessions also allow us to help set you on the best path for you within the studio.

You can schedule your private session online, call the studio or stop by.

Your first session is an hour long and costs $55. There’s a little bit of paperwork to fill out on your first visit, so you’ll want to arrive a few minutes early.

There is parking directly behind the building, as well as in the gravel lot across Manning Street.

Wear clothes you can comfortably move in, such as yoga pants, sweat pants or a t-shirt. If you wear short or loose-fitting shorts, we recommend wearing bike shorts underneath.

You can wear shoes into the studio, but you won’t need them for your session.

We have cubbies and shelves for you to store your shoes and personal belongings.

We also have two bathrooms you can use for changing your clothes.

After your initial private session your instructor will guide you to your next step. If it suits your budget and schedule I always recommend investing in the Introductory Package. This gives you three more private sessions in addition to the Studio Foundation session.

Three more private sessions will reinforce what you learned in your first session and also give you the opportunity to build the next steps.

ORIGINAL FAQ

Why can’t I just start a class without the Studio Foundation session?
Our classes are progressive and not your typical Pilates class. At Pilates Tonic, we assist you to discover the core connections in your body. These connections must be in working order before you head into a class setting, so you’ll get maximum benefits from classes.  The Introductory 101 helps us set you up in the appropriate class for you, where you will benefit and grow the most.

How often should I do Pilates?
Once a week you will learn about how to do Pilates correctly. Twice a week, the body will remember the new information of Pilates better. Three times a week you will see a dramatic difference in your body! Four to five times a week your body will look and feel better than it ever has!

How is Pilates different from Yoga?
While there are some similarities, Pilates is quite different from yoga.  Pilates is an exercise method that focuses on the alignment and lengthening of the spine and the core postural muscles directly attached to the spine. It is based on normal, natural ranges of motion. In Pilates, you stretch through strength. Yoga is an ancient Eastern practice that includes devotion, prayer, diet, good works, and the physical poses. Both incorporate balance, breath, and mind.

What is the difference between Pilates and other abdominal training?
Pilates works on strengthening the deepest layer of abdominal muscles closest to the spine, known as the transverse abdominus. Other abdominal training tends to only work the more surface abdominal layer, the rectus abdominus (or what we call the “6- pack”). True core support is better achieved when the deepest layers of muscle are strengthened.

What is the equipment in Pilates?
Pilates equipment utilizes springs to provide assistance or resistance depending on the purpose of the exercise being performed. During a typical private or semi private session, you may find yourself using a combination of equipment. Small props are also used to facilitate proper technique or to increase the intensity of an exercise or stretch.

Can anyone do Pilates?
Pilates is for everyone no matter what your goals or fitness level! We modify the exercises to meet individuals’ needs.

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