Pilates is an exercise method developed by Joseph H. Pilates that balances strength, stretch, and control throughout the body. It's not physical therapy, massage, yoga, or meditation – it's challenging, effective exercise. Joseph Pilates understood that the body repairs and strengthens itself through movement. This workout maintains your body's functionality as you age and supports all your physical activities for years to come.Description text goes here

As Pilates grows in popularity, many fitness centers offer "Pilates-inspired" programs. At Urban Pilates, we practice only Classical Pilates performed on equipment built to Joseph Pilates' original specifications. This authentic method has stood the test of time and delivers lasting results.

The strongest muscles in the body form a girdle of support around the core (middle). Every movement originates from this foundation. In Pilates, a balanced workout engages:

• Abdominals

• Back muscles

• Obliques and deep stabilizers

A strong and well-aligned core enhances posture, movement efficiency, and injury prevention, allowing you to move with greater freedom and strength.

Pilates is good for anyone who is interested in improving their fitness, posture, coordination, balance, freedom of movement and overall well-being. The Pilates method can be adapted to suit any fitness level, however we do require clients with health issues, injuries or chronic pain to consult their physician before beginning any new exercise program.

Pilates is ideal for anyone looking to improve their:

• Fitness and mobility

• Posture and balance

• Core strength and flexibility

• Movement freedom and athletic performance

• Overall well-being

The method adapts to any fitness level, though we require clients with health conditions, injuries, or chronic pain to consult their physician before starting.

Your first session at Urban Pilates will be personalized to your needs and goals. You’ll:

• Receive expert guidance tailored to your body’s movement patterns

• Learn fundamental Pilates principles

• Develop better body awareness

• Gain an understanding of how Pilates can help you reach your fitness goals

And yes, you'll have fun!

Wear form-fitting athletic attire such as:

• Leggings or shorts

• A fitted athletic top or t-shirt

• Socks (grip socks recommended)

Avoid:

• Loose or baggy clothing (can interfere with equipment)

• Zippers, rivets, or jewelry (may damage equipment)

If you have long hair, tie it up securely to prevent interference with movements.

• Avoid eating heavy meals at least two hours before class

• Hydrate well before and after your session

• Arrive a few minutes early to prepare for class

Urban Pilates offers authentic Classical Pilates with highly personalized instruction in a welcoming studio environment.

Clients describe it as a hidden gem in Portland, with expert instruction, core strength development, and a transformative Pilates experience.

Our studio is known for:

• Top-tier equipment

• Comprehensive instructor expertise

• A supportive, community-driven atmosphere

• Focused attention on form and technique

Urban Pilates offers authentic Classical Pilates on equipment built to Joseph Pilates' original specifications, taught by comprehensively certified instructors. Michelle W. shares: "After years at big box gyms, I was burned out and needed something new. Pilates at Urban Pilates was a game-changer!" Our personalized approach ensures proper form and progression, resulting in more effective, lasting results than typical fitness center offerings.

Learning Classical Pilates is like learning a musical instrument—you wouldn’t join an orchestra without taking private lessons first. Private sessions help you build a strong foundation by:

• Providing personalized instruction and immediate feedback

• Progressing at your optimal pace

• Ensuring proper movement mechanics from the start

• Offering modifications for injuries or special conditions

Each session develops key skills that build upon each other:

• Concentration: Mental focus on movement control

• Control: Precision in execution

• Breath Without Tension: Engaging the core while maintaining flow

• Flow: Seamless, connected movements

• Proper Alignment: Optimal posture and movement patterns

• Core Engagement: Strengthening the body’s powerhouse

Group classes are earned through proper preparation. The foundation built in private sessions allows you to participate safely and effectively in group settings, maximizing results while minimizing injury risk. The more private sessions you invest in early on, the more capable and confident you become.

In Pilates, progress isn't measured by repetition count. Being "advanced" means incorporating all six key principles (concentration, control, breath, flow, alignment, and core engagement) into every single repetition. We prioritize quality over quantity. For more information, check out Jessica Marcussen’s post on Instagram.

As beginners, you'll do more repetitions while learning new movements. As you advance, you'll do fewer repetitions of MORE exercises. The goal is to perform the Classical Pilates sequence with proper form, doing few repetitions of as many exercises as appropriate for your body. This provides more movement variety and three-dimensional joint mobility.

Remember that Pilates is a lifelong practice – even advanced practitioners are beginners at certain exercises.

The equipment was designed to help build strength and flexibility for mat work, which is extremely challenging when done properly. Each apparatus targets specific areas needing development or greater freedom. All equipment works together to teach Pilates principles in different ways.

Our instructors are skilled at modifying exercises for various conditions. During your initial sessions, we'll assess your specific situation and create a personalized approach that respects your limitations while helping you build strength safely.

Three times weekly is optimal, especially when starting. As you develop strength and proper body mechanics, once weekly can maintain your progress. Combining studio sessions with home mat work is ideal.

Absolutely. Many of our senior clients thrive in Classical Pilates.

One long-time client shares: "As a senior, I appreciate the instructors’ ability to modify exercises for my body. Urban Pilates has helped me maintain mobility, strength, and endurance."

Pilates is an excellent low-impact exercise that enhances:

• Balance

• Joint mobility

• Flexibility and coordination

Pilates is not physical therapy, but as proper exercise, it offers benefits including injury prevention and improved athletic ability. Orthopedic issues require medical attention, and anyone under a physician's care should get their doctor's approval before starting Pilates.

Most clients notice improved posture, flexibility, and core strength within the first few weeks.

• Clients attending two to three sessions per week see more rapid progress

• Within one to three months, noticeable physical changes occur

• Regular Pilates practice leads to long-term movement efficiency and strength

Many of our clients have found relief from chronic neck, back, and joint pain through regular Pilates practice. A client with chronic back pain stated: "Pilates has been a game-changer for my pain relief and overall health." While individual results vary, our instructors can provide modifications for specific conditions and work with you to develop a personalized approach.

• 24-hour notice is required to cancel or reschedule

• Late cancellations forfeit the session fee/credit, no exceptions (including illness)

• Cancellations can be made via:

• App/scheduler

• Text: 503-505-9203

• Email: frontdesk@urban-pilates.com

• If you're ill, please cancel

• No jewelry or scented products

• Wear appropriate clothing (see "What should I wear")

• Tie up long hair

• Socks required