Getting Started

How do I get started?
Call the studio at 757-464-3000 to discuss how Pilates Central can best meet your needs. After discussing your fitness level and goals with one of our certified instructors, we will help you to decide the best way to begin:

1. Schedule a private 55-minute session (Pilates Central requires new clients to complete 3 private sessions before beginning an Equipment Class).
2. Try an Intro to Pilates Mat Class (Current Class Schedule).
3. NEW! Register for our Intro to Equipment Series. Experience all pieces of Pilates Equipment during 8 sessions – 2x’s a week for 4 weeks. Limited to 3 new clients.

What to wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and socks. You do not need shoes during your session.
Women: Spandex shorts, capris, or pants, fitted t-shirts, and workout tank tops
Men: T-Shirts, workout shorts (long or short - some choose to wear bike shorts underneath), or comfy pants

Note: Instructors look for abdominal initiation as well as hand and ankle placement. It's helpful when you wear close-fitting clothing that does not have long sleeves or long pants covering wrists and ankles.

What's the difference between working out in the studio vs. working out at home using videos?
In the studio, you receive personalized instruction and immediate feedback so that you experience better results. Our instructors teach you correct and safe body placement for each exercise. Understanding this placement can be difficult when you're watching TV and doing the exercise at the same time.

How many times a week should I schedule a Pilates session?
The key to success in any exercise program is commitment. We recommend 2 to 3 times a week. All new clients are required to initially take private sessions. We offer an Introductory Package of 3 private sessions for $150. If private sessions are unavailable to you, we also offer an Intro to Equipment Series - a series of 8 classes; 2x’s a week for 4 weeks for $199.

Can I take reformer classes?
All new clients are required to take at least 3 Private Sessions or the Intro to Equipment Series prior to entering the Beginner Reformer Class. This allows for one-on-one instruction where you can get familiar with Pilates exercises and learn how to use the equipment. Once in class, you are expected to be familiar with Beginner exercises and know how to set-up your springs, straps, box, and foot bar on the reformer. It is our goal that you are comfortable and confident with the exercises, equipment, and working-out with a small group of people before you enter class.

I've taken Pilates sessions from other studios before. Do I still need to take a Private Session to start?
It depends on how you would like to begin. To best assess where to place you, discuss your fitness level, goals and previous Pilates experience with our certified instructors. If you are interested in entering a Mat Class, check our Current Class Schedule and sign-up on our website – see our CLIENTS page – to reserve your spot. Our instructors do need to know more about your experience before placing you in an Equipment Class (Tower and/or Reformer) that is best for you.

How soon will I see results?
Every ‘body' is unique. According to Joseph Pilates, "In 10 sessions, you'll feel a difference, in 20 sessions, you'll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you'll have a different body. Real and lasting changes will happen over time, but more importantly, you'll leave every session or class feeling rejuvenated and energized.

What if I'm out of shape?
Not to worry. Pilates is for everyone. Our instructors will design a workout specifically suited to your fitness level and experience. Pilates is challenging and requires commitment, but you will start to feel better after your very first session.

What's the difference between working out in the studio vs. working out at home using videos?
Our instructors teach you correct body placement for each exercise. This can be difficult when you're watching TV and doing the exercise at the same time.

What can I expect during a session at Pilates Central?
Sessions and/or classes are 55-minutes unless otherwise noted. They are offered at the Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced level. Some classes are also open to all levels. Pilates is a workout, so be prepared to sweat! Below are descriptions of the various classes and sessions that Pilates Central currently provides:

• Private Session: One-on-one personalized training utilizing the Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, High Chair or Wunda Chair and Ladder Barrel.
• Duet Session: Two clients with one instructor utilizing the same equipment as in the Private Session.
• Trio Session: Three clients with one instructor utilizing the same equipment as in the Private and/or Duet Session.
• Intro to Equipment Series: Three clients with one instructor utilizing the same equipment as in the Private and/or Duet Session. Learn the basics of Pilates Equipment to prepare yourself for Reformer and/or Tower Classes. Total of 8 sessions, 2x’s a week for 4 weeks.
• Mat Classes: Maximum of thirteen clients with one instructor utilizing the Mat and various exercise props.
• Tower Classes: Maximum of six clients with one instructor utilizing the Mat and Wall Units.
• Reformer Classes: Maximum of six clients with one instructor utilizing the Mat and Reformer.

View our Current Class Schedule.

Do you know of any celebrities that practice Pilates?
Madonna, Oprah, Liv Tyler, Hillary Swank, Daisy Fuentes…to name a few.